THE TRUTH ABOUT COLLAGEN

WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

Collagen plays a vital role in the visible health and vitality of our skin. As one of our main building proteins, consisting of 19 amino acids, it plays a key role in our connective tissues (including cartilage, tendons, skin and bones) and affects skin density, elasticity and youthfulness. As well as our skin, it also directly influences the health of our hair, nails, bones, joints, tendons and muscles. No wonder we’re a bit obsessed with it!

COLLAGEN AS WE AGE

As we get older, our bodies naturally produce less collagen. In fact, for both women and men over 40, collagen synthesis drops by 1%-2% every year. Other factors which negatively impact collagen production include UV light, autoimmune diseases and – listen up – chronic stress and poor lifestyle choices. For example, smoking damages collagen (vapes too), a sedentary lifestyle doesn’t help and those with a sweet tooth should be aware that sugar dramatically decreases collagen levels.

THE GOOD NEWS

We can improve the collagen levels in our skin by both internal support (supplement) and external (beauty treatments). Supplements are one of the most promising methods of replenishing collagen levels. A key finding published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2014 refer to it as a leap in anti-ageing treatment. Researchers documented that collagen peptides significantly reduced collagen fragmentation in the deeper layers of the dermis by 18% after four weeks of oral intake and by 31% after 12 weeks. After four weeks, users demonstrated a 9% increase in the density of collagen and a 28% increase in the levels of skin hydration. It became evident that skin cells are not only capable of producing collagen fibres but also hyaluronic acid.

These findings were further supported by later studies, which put a lot of weight on the potential of collagen supplements. Collagen consumption not only benefits our skin, but also our hair and nails. Hair follicles are deeply embedded in the dermis, which largely consists of collagen. Beauty products are also a good way to topically support your skin’s collagen supplies. Look for products that increase natural collagen production and stimulate cellular turnover. 

HOW TO NATURALLY INCREASE YOUR COLLAGEN

The best methods for maintaining collagen levels in your body is to remember the reasons behind its decreasing production and aim for preventative measures.

  1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, increasing your exercise and avoiding smoking.
  2. Use a sunscreen and minimise sun exposure.
  3. According to studies, vitamin C plays a key role in collagen production so remember your vitamin C supplements and stay friendly with citruses, red peppers and greens.
  4. Other collagen boosters include meat, fish, seafood and eggs. Or, for vegans, antioxidant-rich green tea and coffee, brightly-coloured fruits and berries plus spices such as turmeric and cinnamon.

COLLAGEN BOOSTING BEAUTY

It makes sense to use beauty products which contain or promote collagen production, creating a moisture-retaining barrier and evening out facial contours. Animal collagen is banned from use in beauty products due to the risks of infection – so formulas, such as Scentiana’s, typically include either marine collage or ones synthesised with the use of biotechnology. It is also possible to stimulate collagen production with tried and tested retinol and vitamin C. Our top two collagen-boosting Scentiana products are:

SCENTIANA RESCUING BODY BALM

Our rich anti-ageing body balm created with a pioneering blend of Retinol, Phytic Acid and Rosehip seed oil increases natural collagen production plus stimulates cellular renewal. Ideal for the winter months.

SCENTIANA PLUMPING LIP BALM

Formulated with rare Jasmine Stem Cells, our innovative plumping lip balm boosts collagen production and triggers regeneration on a cellular level. Indispensable.

Image: Linda Evangelista by Steven Meisel for Vogue Paris, June-July 1989