What do we know about collagen? Why is it important for skin health and beauty?

When it comes to skin health and beauty, collagen takes center stage. This protein forms the foundation of our skin, connective tissues, and bones, playing a crucial role in maintaining skin firmness, elasticity, and youthfulness.

However, with age, collagen levels in the body naturally decline, leading to wrinkles, loss of tone, and other signs of aging.
Let’s dive into why collagen is so vital for the skin, how to maintain it, and what can be done to preserve skin beauty for as long as possible.

1. What is collagen and its role in the skin?
Collagen is a protein that makes up about 30% of all proteins in the human body. It forms a structural framework supporting the skin. In the dermis (the deep skin layer), collagen fibers provide:

• Skin firmness and density.
• The ability of the skin to stretch and return to its original state.
• Wound healing and cell regeneration.

Without sufficient collagen, the skin loses elasticity, develops wrinkles, and appears less smooth and vibrant.
2. Why does collagen decrease?

After the age of 25, the body begins to lose collagen—approximately 1–2% per year. This process accelerates due to the following factors:

Age: With time, collagen synthesis slows, and existing collagen breaks down faster.

UV radiation: Sun exposure damages collagen fibers, leading to photoaging.

Poor diet: A lack of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants weakens the skin’s ability to repair itself.

Stress and unhealthy habits: Smoking, alcohol, and chronic stress reduce collagen production.

3. Signs of collagen deficiency

A decrease in collagen levels manifests through:

• The appearance of wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity.
• Dryness and flaking.
• A less defined facial contour.
• Slow healing of minor skin injuries.

4. How to maintain collagen levels?

Proper diet: Nutrition plays a key role in collagen production.

Include in your diet:

• High-protein foods (chicken, fish, eggs).
• Vitamin C (citrus fruits, kiwi, bell peppers), which is essential for collagen synthesis.
• Zinc and copper (seafood, nuts) to support skin structure.
• Antioxidants (berries, green tea) that protect collagen fibers from degradation.

Collagen supplements:
Modern studies confirm that hydrolyzed collagen, taken orally, improves skin hydration and firmness.

Skincare:
Use products with active ingredients that stimulate collagen production, such as:

• Retinol.
• Peptides.
• Hyaluronic acid, which retains moisture in the skin, enhancing collagen’s effectiveness.

Sun protection:
Using SPF creams is essential to protect collagen fibers from UV damage.

Regular treatments:
Cosmetic procedures such as microcurrents, laser therapy, or microneedling stimulate collagen production in the dermis.

5. Myths about collagen

• Collagen can only be obtained from food: While food sources are essential, noticeable effects also require supplements and skin protection from harmful factors.
• Creams with collagen make the skin firm: Collagen in creams typically hydrates the skin’s surface, but active ingredients penetrating deeper layers are needed to boost internal synthesis.

6. Conclusion: Collagen is the foundation of healthy and youthful skin

Collagen plays a critical role in maintaining skin health. While its levels naturally decline with age, it doesn’t mean we have to accept all signs of aging. Maintaining a proper diet, using quality products and supplements, and protecting the skin from harmful factors can slow the aging process and keep the skin youthful, firm, and radiant.

Remember, skincare is an investment in your beauty and self-confidence!