Collagen Skin Care

In the world of skincare, collagen makes a lot of noise…and for good reason!  Once you understand what it is, you can easily understand why dermatologists and skincare specialists proclaim its importance.

Collagen is found throughout your body, not solely in the make up of your skin.  It is a structural protein made up of amino acids and is the most abundant one found in mammals (between 25% and 35%). Collagen consist of 19 different amino acids, with the largest content being hydroxyproline, glycine, and proline. However Collagen is not a "Complete Protein" because it does not contain Tryptophan. 

When you think of proteins, you may very often think of it as a substance that makes you strong.  Such is the case with collagen and your skin. The word “collagen” is derived from two Greek words… “kolla,”which means glue, and a suffix “gen,” meaning producing.  Since it is a predominant part of connective tissues found in your skin, ligaments, bones, and a multitude of other places in your body, you can think of collagen as a substance that produces the glue that strengthens and holds them together.

While collagen plays a major role in maintaining the strength and suppleness of your skin and other vital body parts, another function it performs involves protecting your skin against toxins, viruses, and other microorganisms.

As is the case with other bodily parts and functions, aging takes its toll on the levels of collagen production in your body.  What this means to your skin is that the structure is weakened, and it doesn’t look and feel as strong and toned as it did when you were younger.  It is for this reason that the use of collagen plays an important part in skincare regimens and products today.