LifestyleUnlocking the secret to youthful skin: The versatile role of collagen in skincare

Unlocking the secret to youthful skin: The versatile role of collagen in skincare

Unlocking the secret to youthful skin: The versatile role of collagen in skincare
Images source: © Pexels | Min An

12:04 PM EST, February 7, 2024, updated: 4:02 AM EST, March 7, 2024

Many of us have heard of collagen, but do we truly understand its role? Let's start with a basic understanding of collagen. The term collagen is derived from the Greek word kolla, which translates to "glue". Collagen indeed functions as both a binder and a building block within the human body. It is a long-chained amino acid protein that chiefly comprises the skin, muscles, cartilage, and bones.

Staying youthful with collagen

There are several types of collagen, but type I is the most significant in terms of appearance as it is found predominantly in the skin. As we age, our collagen level changes. Latterly, our body produces less collagen, leading to the slow disappearance of collagen fibers. Consequently, the skin loses its firmness and becomes flaccider. Hence, external supplementation of collagen is beneficial for maintaining its optimal levels within the body.

The cosmetics market provides a variety of collagen forms - supplements, hydrolysates, drinkable shots. Some fitness or anti-aging devices even use special collagen lamps to enhance the effects of slim, youthful, and elastic skin. Such light therapy can act as anti-wrinkle and detoxifying agents. For skin care, it is advisable to use cosmetics with collagen, such as creams, bath salts, and liquids. These products equate to a private skincare session right inside your bathroom.

Hydrating collagen-based cosmetics

Our skin is prone to drying and dehydration daily, which accelerates the aging process. To restore its firmness, we can resort to using collagen-based cosmetics, such as bath salt. It rejuvenates the skin and boosts elasticity by penetrating the deeper skin layers. Moreover, it enhances skin firmness, stimulates blood circulation, and reduces swelling. Regular usage aids in correcting skin defects as well as encourages new collagen production. Since such products contain natural ingredients, they leave the skin feeling hydrated, rather than dry, while serving as an effective anti-cellulite therapy.

Following a bath, using collagen body milk, suitable for all skin types, is beneficial. The cosmetics market also offers numerous products that blend collagen with other elements, for instance, silk proteins, which restore the skin's velvety softness and flexibility gradually. Combining collagen with aloe and flax extract ensures intense skin hydration and soothes irritations. Collagen paired with Vitamin E helps slow down the aging process, rejuvenates the skin, and protects it against free radicals. The resulting effect? Relaxing, hydrating, and visibly youthful skin after a long day.

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