Collagen: everything you do not yet know (for example that it fights cellulite)

We have always heard the magic word that begins with “C” infused in the latest generation of super moisturizing serums and creams. Often described as a scaffold for the skin, collagen is a protein long structural, fibrous, rope-like appearance, which gives the skin strength and elasticity. We envision it as a kind of springboard as it provides a basic structure and the “bounce” we need for healthy, luminous looking skin, proof of the Instagram filter.

COLLAGEN, NO.1 ENEMY OF WRINKLES
«There are 29 types of collagen, with a different distribution based on the type of tissue. Type I constitutes 90% of the collagen present in our body and is found not only in the tendons and bones, but also in the skin, where it represents the main component of the dermis. Type II, an essential element of cartilage, plays a vital role in the joints. Finally, type III is present in the dermis and in the walls of blood vessels ”, specifies Dr. Juri Tassinari, Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon. “On the skin, contributes to maintaining firmness, tone and firmness of the skin, minimizing the presence of wrinkles».

Unfortunately collagen production decreases with age, but also due to UV exposure and environmental stressors such as smoke and pollution. Typically the decline begins around the age of twenty-five, decreasing by about one percent each year: the appearance of fine lines is the first sign, followed by the ever increasing roughness of the skin that becomes less compact and thinner. This is the bad news. But if you’re already mourning the inevitable slowdown in collagen production, the good news is that it is never too late to switch to solutions that stimulate collagen.

2021: COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS BOOM
Among the 2021 trends in terms of skincare there are them, collagen supplements which «are widely used in treatment anti-age whose main ingredient is represented by this precious protein which, however, because of its large size, is difficult to digest. To overcome this drawback, in the supplements that contain it, collagen is often present in hydrolyzed form, in order to favor intestinal absorption. The collagen used in these products derives from animal bones, skins and connective tissues, such as cattle, pigs and horses, although today many producers prefer to resort to the use of marine collagen, of fish origin », explains Dr. Tassinari.

Let’s make a small clarification: iCollagen is only animal and not vegetable. “The companies that talk about vegetable collagen refer to a protein, extensin, with properties similar to collagen but which is not collagen”, explains Andrea Bertocco, EMEA Scientific Director of Herbalife Nutrition which has recently launched Collagen Skin on the market. , nutricosmetic based on collagen peptides called Verisol.

Today then ingestible collagen e bioidentico (our body recognizes it as its own since it is already found naturally in our dermis) represents the wannahave of the moment and more and more women are using it daily (watch celebs like Jennifer Aniston, testimonial of an American brand of collagen supplements, Kate Hudson e Kourtney Kardashian). Taking it for several months can improve skin elasticity as well as the signs of aging. And since prevention is better than cure, starting to take it around the age of 25 is ideal for keeping skin toned and full of light.

COLLAGEN IN COSMETICS, HOW THEY ACTUALLY ACT
Collagen has become a fundamental pillar of skincare daily. Collagen creams, serums and tissue masks, “Topically you can observe an infinite range of cosmetics that increase collagen synthesis by increasing its availability in the tissues” continues the cosmetic surgeon. And ok, collagen masks are the skin care trend that we can’t get enough of, but the collagen molecules are too large to be absorbed by the skin. Instead, the cosmetic is more likely to include skin care actives to support its ability to produce collagen. For example, retinol it has a unique metabolism and increases collagen as well as C vitamin, essential in the synthesis of collagen, la niacinamide, azelaic acid, vitamin E and green tea. Even if they don’t penetrate deep into the skin, they all work on a surface level to neutralize free radicals while strengthening UV protection.

COLLAGEN AND CELLULITE
Finally, according to a study, collagen can help fight cellulite and reduce skin ripples on the thighs. A daily dose of 2.5 grams of collagen peptides resulted in a reduction in the level of cellulite in both women with regular weight and overweight after 6 months. It is therefore important to also follow a targeted diet in this sense. To take collagen at the table, then it is better to eat foods rich in protein (meat, cheese), C vitamin (fried and leafy vegetables) it’s at (egg yolks, potatoes, carrots).

Meanwhile, in the gallery start eyeing creams, serums, masks and supplements with collagen or collagen activators to be included immediately in the beauty routine. To give an extra magical touch to the skin we all need.

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