What Is Collagen? What Does Collagen Do For Your Skin? A Skincare Guide

Every fairness product advertisement is just incomplete without the word ‘collagen’. Even skin care treatment is designed to enhance collagen production. The collagen has been given much more prominence in the beauty industry.

What Does Collagen Do To Your Skin?

Well, all these years, we have been taking collagen as the skin complexion booster. But it is more than just what we have heard or been taught. Despite its role in the beauty industry being undeniable, its function is not just limited to skin, but to your bones, and muscles. You must delve deep into it to keep it rightfully in your skincare regime and to achieve flawless skin.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen, in simple terms, is a protein – a combination of 20 amino acids present not only in the skin, but also in the ligaments, muscles, and tendons. The collagen molecule is a triple helix-shaped molecule that looks like a long braid or rope.

When it comes to skin, These collagen molecules combinedly form a mesh-like structure beneath the epidermis (the first layer of the skin) and above the subcutaneous fat. It binds the cells and tissue together to provide a rigid support to the skin.

These collagen will tend to decline, as we age. According to studies, it is reported that by the age of 40, its production will decrease to 30-35%. And, this can result in various skin complications such as wrinkles, visible aging, textured skin, loose skin, etc…

Four Main Roles of Collagen

Collagen performs the following four main functions:

1. Elasticity:

Mesh like structure of collagen provides your skin a great support which simply means enhanced elasticity and firmness. The higher the elasticity, the slower the aging process will be. Delayed aging results in wrinkle-free and young-looking skin.

2. Keeps Skin Firm And Plump:

Skin has two other molecules along with it which are also good for your skin. One is hyaluronic acid which helps skin to stretch and prevents fine lines. The other one is elastin which gives the skin a volume and bouncy look. The combination of these three forms a tight and flexible network that results in a plump and supple appearance.

3. Provide Support And Structure:

As collagen fiber forms a mesh-like network, it acts as a sturdy connection to hold the top layer of the skin firmly. This provides stability and rigidity in order to keep your skin tightened and lifted. As a result, your skin will be in a youthful shape.

4. Moisture Retention:

Collagen acts as lubricating moisture from within. The lack of protein will dry up the skin and make it appear dull. Its molecules retain moisture and improve the skin complexion.

Factors Affecting Collagen Production

1. Exposure To Sunlight

UV light has the tendency to penetrate deep into the skin’s mid-layer to activate the free radicals to cause oxidative stress in cells. Also, it accelerates the collagen and elastin break down than normal aging. Resulting damage leads to inflammation and degradation of collagen.

2. Aging

Though aging-associated skin-related issues are unavoidable, you can delay and reduce the intensity of the process, indeed. With a proper diet and healthy lifestyle, you can slow down the decline in the collagen and elastin production that causes wrinkles.

3. Bad Lifestyle

Although this aligns with the above point, it is crucial not only for your skin but also for your overall health. Prioritize getting proper sleep, make time to drill, and find ways to destress your mind. Quit smoking and alcohol consumption, and adapt to a healthy lifestyle.

4. Poor Diet

Poor diet is the culprit for speeding up the production of free radicals which is responsible for aged appearance. Irrespective of the products you’re buying, the real power to fight against free radicals should come with you. Quiet sugar bingeing, mindless eating, and dumping your stomach with rubbish.

5. Pollution

Of course, this may sound silly. And it may not be in your hands. However, you can dedicate some time every day to clean your face to eliminate the toxic deposition. Doing so will make your skin happy!

How To Boost The Collagen?

Boosting collagen production is not at all rocket science. All you need is a commitment towards your skin. You have many ways to eliminate free radicals and improve the production of collagen. One straightforward way to do this is to rely on supplements and its powders. But make sure to consult your dermatologists before proceeding, says dermatologists of ThreeBestRated®, a growing multi-ranking website to bring the best services in your vicinity.

If you are looking for natural ways, consider including foods that have chlorophyll, vitamin C, Proline, and Lycopene which are known components to fuel the body’s ability to produce collagen.

For vegans, consume these foods like Berries – Raspberries, Blueberries, Strawberries, Blackberries, and Citrus Fruits – Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, and Limes, Tropical Fruits – Kiwi, Pineapple, Guava, and Mango, Tomatoes, nuts, beans, and Leafy Greens. For non-vegetarians, foods to include are Bone Broth, Chicken Breast, Fish, and Egg whites.