Collagen has become a buzzword in the world of skincare, but what exactly does it do for our bodies and how can we effectively incorporate it into our routines? In this article, we delve into the benefits of collagen, the different types available, and whether collagen creams can truly be absorbed through the skin.

The Vital Role of Collagen in Our Bodies

Derived from the Greek word “kólla,” meaning glue, collagen acts as the binding agent that maintains the structural integrity of our bones, ligaments, organs, muscles, tendons, and skin. Despite being a naturally occurring protein in our bodies, collagen levels decline as we age, making it essential for maintaining healthy joints, skin elasticity, and overall well-being.

Collagen exists in various types, with types I, II, and III being the most prevalent in our bodies. Each type serves a distinct function, with type I aiding in bone, tendon, skin, and ligament formation, type II supporting cartilage development, and type III contributing to blood vessel and muscle formation. While all types are crucial, type I collagen, commonly found in supplements, helps minimize wrinkles, enhance skin elasticity, strengthen nails, and thicken hair.

Preserving Collagen Levels and Combatting Decline

Aging naturally leads to a decrease in collagen production, prompting the need to safeguard existing levels. Lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and excessive sugar consumption can significantly deplete collagen stores. Sunlight, while beneficial for vitamin D synthesis, contains harmful ultraviolet rays that can damage collagen fibers, causing premature aging signs like wrinkles.

Smoking introduces harmful chemicals that accelerate skin sagging and wrinkling, while sugar consumption can lead to protein cross-linking, compromising skin elasticity over time.

The Efficacy of Collagen Absorption Through the Skin

With the rise in collagen supplements, including liquid formulations, pills, powders, and creams, the question arises: can collagen be effectively absorbed through the skin?

Collagen-infused skin creams, typically containing synthetic collagen, may provide surface hydration but do not directly impact natural collagen levels. Due to collagen’s large molecular size, it cannot penetrate the dermis intact for absorption. To truly benefit from collagen, it must be broken down into smaller peptides or amino acids that can be assimilated by the body.

Instead of relying solely on collagen creams, experts recommend enhancing collagen levels internally by incorporating liquid collagen supplements into your regimen for optimal results.