Collagen | Ingredient 101

Hello and welcome back to Ingredient 101! Today we’ll be discussing collagen, its benefits, where to find it and how to increase its production.

Let’s start!

Collagen is what gives the skin elasticity and strength. In essence, collagen is the “glue” that holds your body together!

What exactly is collagen?

Collagen is a protein. In fact, it is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is present in your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and even the digestive system.

Unfortunately, as we age, the amount of collagen produced by the body gradually declines.That being said, a number of other factors can prematurely impact your body’s collagen levels and production. Prolonged exposure to the sun and excessive sugar consumption have both been shown to reduce its synthesis, as do activities such as drinking and smoking.

To further complicated things, there isn’t just one type of collagen present in the body either. You’ll probably be surprised to learn that there are in fact SIXTEEN different kinds!

Now, types I, II, and III accounts for the vast majority of the collagen in your body (around 90%), but nevertheless, that’s a LOT of different types floating around inside you.

What type of skin benefits the most from it?

Dry and aging skin types would benefit the most from this ingredient. It will help lock in moisture and hydration, allowing your skin to be balanced and healthy. It will also work to smooth out any fine lines and wrinkles!  

What benefits does it have on the skin?

It is a humectant ingredient that will help hydrate your skin and plump it up. The added hydration will help smooth out wrinkles and fine lines and prevent any moisture from leaving your skin, working as a film of protection over your skin. It will bring your skin radiance while improving skin elasticity! Ultimately, it plays an important role in maintaining the resilience of your skin!

So, should you use it?

Typically, collagen/hydrolyzed collagen molecules can be quite large and can have a hard time sinking into your skin. Marine collagen, on the other hand, is small enough for your skin to absorb so definitely keep a look out for that ingredient in your skin care products! But even if it is a bit more difficult to absorb into the skin, it’s still great to use for humectant benefits! It adds loads of hydration and moisture, plus does a tremendous job healing inflammations. Your skin will be glowing thanks to this popular ingredient!

What masks or skincare products contain collagen?

How to Increase Collagen

Given the litany of benefits that it has to offer, you’re probably salivating at the prospect of getting your hands-on it and adding it to your supplement stash.

Before you resort to supplements though, there are a few things you can do with your current diet to ensure optimal production, namely consuming more of the following four nutrients:

Glycine

The primary building block of collagen is found in vast amounts in chicken skin, gelatin, and pork skin. So, feel free to have some more of those skin on chicken breasts, thighs, and legs.

Proline

The other major amino acid of collagen is found in high amounts in dairy products, asparagus, mushrooms, egg whites, and wheat germ.

Vitamin C

Everyone’s favorite cold-combatting vitamin. The water-soluble vitamin can be found in a great many foods, but some of our favorites are bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli, and of course oranges.

Pantothenic Acid

Also known as Vitamin B5, Pantothenic Acid is an essential nutrient that is required for the metabolism of dietary carbs, proteins, and fats consumed on a daily basis. Vitamin B5 is critical for the growth and differentiation of keratin and collagen.