COLLAGEN, THE POWER PROTEIN
Collagen is the most important fibrous component and stabilizer of skin, bones, tendons, blood vessels, cartilage, and teeth. Admittedly, it sounds a bit unappetizing, but it's really effective! Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. "In addition to collagen, skincare products should also contain antioxidants such as vitamin C and retinol ," explains Dr. Katharina Brüggemann from the Capital Aesthetics Clinic for Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery.
"Both ingredients have been proven to support the body's own collagen production. Foods that boost collagen include red fruits and vegetables such as beetroot, rosehips, and tomatoes. Meat, fish, and eggs also increase collagen production in the body." We want to know more! "Collagen is produced in the cell types of connective tissue called fibroblasts," says Katharina Brüggemann.
COMBINATION WONDERS
The mix is key, as the expert knows. The interplay of vitamin C as a co-factor and collagen increases production and protects existing collagen. "Vitamin A stimulates the activity of fibroblasts and thus promotes the synthesis of new collagen and elastin." And vitamin E protects the collagen structure from potential damage caused by free radicals.
BIODIVERSITY
Whether tablet, capsule, powder, drinkable ampoule, or cream – collagen is available in a wide variety of forms. The expert explains that there is a difference between oral and topical application. "In fact, collagen applied via cosmetics is not absorbed by the skin and therefore only serves to provide simple surface hydration. The use of a vitamin-rich cream is recommended as a supplement."
PLANT-BASED GOOD
So-called natural collagen is invariably of animal origin, the expert explains. "When people talk about vegan collagen, they mean active ingredients from plant-based foods. These are supposed to have a similar effect on the body's own collagen production as collagen from animal sources."
Birds of a feather flock together
"Hyaluronic acid can have a similar effect to collagen. Hyaluronic acid penetrates deep into the skin and helps to retain moisture in the skin's connective tissue." Thanks to this moisturizer, the skin appears firmer and wrinkles are minimized.
Fountain of Youth
Unfortunately true: The natural aging process begins from the age of 25.
But why? "The so-called collagen network in our tissue loses structure due to reduced collagen production. As a result, sagging skin, connective tissue, and wrinkles can become visible." It's high time to support your skin!
SHOPPING TIME
One of the finest collagens, please! "To recognize a collagen supplement of the highest quality , it should contain a variety of ingredients." These include, for example, supporting vitamins, antioxidants, and moisturizing hyaluronic acid. Furthermore, high-quality collagen hydrolysate should contain neither sugar nor preservatives.
FISHERMAN'S FRIEND
As with almost any product, allergic reactions can occur here as well.
The expert explains: "In very rare cases, sensitive individuals may experience side effects such as nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, dizziness, fatigue, and headaches, which are usually triggered by additives." Caution is advised only for those with fish allergies: "Many common collagen and elastin supplements are derived from fish."