What it is
Collagen is a group of proteins (there are more than 25 types!) that supports bodily tissues like skin, muscles and bones. Collagen, together with Elastin, gives skin structure, flexibility and strength. The type used in cosmetics comes from animal sources or from plants derivatives that act as collagen.
What it does
When used in topical products, collagen can’t stimulate collagen synthesis. That’s because its molecules are too big to penetrate the skin which is what it’d have to do to produce collagen.
Instead, collagen sits on top of the skin and moisturizes it. It is a good water-binding agent that holds moisture in and hydrates skin.
Side effects
Collagen is considered to be safe. However, it can’t replace the collagen the skin lost or stimulate its production, like marketing claims imply.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I like the comment “it can’t replace the collagen the skin lost or stimulate its production.” I strongly believe in this statement, because marketing claims a lot of things but you are born with what you have. Wrinkles here I come!… lol~
Thank you for the well wish on Tobey!
.-= Ahleessa´s last blog ..Maybelline Stylish Smokes in Charcoal Smokes Tutorial =-.
Ahleessa, I agree with you. Marketing claims are full of exaggerations, implications and promises that don’t mean anything. No cosmetics can change what you’re born with (they can only hide it), so you might just as well embrace it.
You’re welcome and I hope he’s better now.
Thanks for this post!
Is there’s any benefit to drinking collagen?
Collagen drinks are really popular right now but I’ve always wondered if there’s an actual benefit to them.
kuri´s last [type] ..Happy Valentines Day!
Kuri, not really as the collagen you drink is not gonna be distributed directly to the collage in your skin. There’s nothing wrong with drinking it of course, it doesn’t have any side effects, but it doesn’t really help keeping skin looking younger and healthier for longer. At the very least it might have a slight plumping effect which will disappear as soon as you stop drinking it. And considering how expensive these drinks can be and how little, if any, benefits they have, I personally think they are just a waste of money.
ah thanks for validating my suspicion! That’s good to know, I’ll stick to stuff with actual benefits.
kuri´s last [type] ..Happy Valentines Day!
Kuri, you’re welcome.