Ready for a speedy biology lesson? We promise to keep it simple! Collagen is the most plentiful protein in our skin, making up 75-80% of the cellular structure of skin itself. This explains why it plays such a big role in the way our skin looks and ages. Collagen and elastin (another important protein in the skin) are both responsible for warding off wrinkles and fine lines. Sadly, for us, as we get older, our collagen levels begin depleting.
Now that you have a good idea of what collagen is, let’s talk about the best collagen benefits for skin and why collagen is good for you. As our collagen levels decrease, our skin loses its firmness and begins to sag, and wrinkles start to become visible all the time—not just when we’re smiling or frowning. Yikes! Studies have shown that for individuals who take daily supplements containing collagen peptides, both their eye wrinkle depth and their skin’s collagen and elastin were significantly improved after nearly 8 weeks.
Do be cautious when taking collagen skin supplements, as they may contain shellfish or eggs—two potential sources of collagen, and two of the most dangerous food allergies. Apart from the risk of anaphylaxis, other collagen side effects include an upset stomach, heartburn and a lingering bad taste in the mouth. Always consult your GP before adding daily supplements to your diet.
There are other ways to make up for collagen loss, including treatments to stimulate collagen production and specially formulated skin care products—but we’ll get to those later.
Alright, so we’re aware that collagen is a natural protein found in our skin. We know that collagen is good for us, but that it also depletes as we mature. So, what exactly causes this collagen loss?
Although collagen can begin diminishing earlier, it’s mainly a concern for women going through menopause. During the first five years of menopause, women’s skin loses about 30% of its collagen. After that, 2% of collagen is lost every year for the next 20 years.
This may come as bad news for all our beach babes, but the sun can also take a big toll on our skin’s collagen. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light breaks down the skin’s connective tissue—collagen and elastin fibres, which lie in the deeper layer of skin (the dermis). Sun damage and the breakdown of collagen can lead to wrinkles, so be sure to practise safe sun protection and use broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. Wrinkles can also be caused by smoking, which changes the blood supply to your skin.
There are several professional skin treatments can help tackle the loss of collagen, but make sure to do your research and speak with a trained professional beforehand. Here are some procedures you may have heard of:
Microneedling is a procedure that uses a bunch of tiny needles to puncture the top layer of skin. This boosts collagen production, which in turn reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Microneedling elevates the overall texture of your skin and can result in more suppleness and elasticity. Side effects may include red or itchy skin, but this should clear up in a few days.
You may have heard of an ultrasound whilst at the doctor’s office (or maybe you watch a lot of Grey’s Anatomy), but did you know that ultrasounds also stimulate collagen? Ultrasounds use focussed ultrasonic energy to send heat deep into the skin, stimulating the production of collagen. After one treatment, most people see toned, lifted and tightened skin within two to six months.
Similar to ultrasounds, radiofrequency skin tightening uses heat to stimulate collagen and elastin production, plumping fine lines and firming the skin. Whilst results may take up to six months to appear, they can last for two or three years with proper skin care measures.
It’s time for a bee-tox! Bee venom contains Apitoxin—and it’s also made up of 88% water. Apitoxin causes the skin to inflame, resulting in blood rising to the surface and your skin entering “healing mode.” When this happens, collagen is generated, and fresh-looking skin is on its way. Apitoxin-infused skin care treatments, such as masks and face creams, are not painful on the skin and are perfectly safe to apply. However, if you’re allergic to bee stings, stay away!
Wow—that’s a lot of info! We’re nearly done with one lesson to go: Collagen-focussed skin care products to add to your daily routine. Instead of heading straight to the dermatologist, there are steps you can take at home to help maintain your collagen production. Our Revitalift range contains serums, day treatments and night creams formulated to smooth and firm your skin. Revitalift products are enriched with Pro-Retinol, an anti-wrinkle, extra-firming formula to fight the signs of ageing. Retinol can help increase the production of collagen, addressing fine lines and wrinkles at the source.
Skin creams with synthetic collagen add a film-like layer to your skin to reduce water loss and act as a barrier from environmental elements. The Wrinkle Expert Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream 35+ is a hydrating face cream that contains collagen and is designed to fight the first signs of ageing—which tend to appear at the age of 35. Apply every morning and night to a freshly cleansed face and neck, massing into the skin in circular motions.
Our Age Perfect Golden Age Re-Densifying Day Cream SPF15 is rich in Calcium B5, floral extracts and SPF15 sunscreen to restore the skin’s density and firmness, rehydrate for a rosy glow and protect against the sun’s UV rays. Skin is instantly moisturised and more comfortable, without feeling tight, and facial contours are left looking more defined. Smooth gently onto your face until absorbed and apply prior to sun exposure—either under makeup or on its own.
If you’re on the hunt for an everyday serum, look no further than the Revitalift Classic Concentrated Serum. It’s formulated with Pro-Retinol, Fibrelastyl and Adenosine, all of which smooth the skin, enhance skin tone for extra firmness and fight wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Use the serum twice a day, before your day and night creams, by applying a few drops to your fingers and delicately massaging over your face.
End your night on a high note with our Age Perfect Classic Night Cream. This night cream is specially formulated for mature skin, to fight sagging and reduce the appearance of age spots. It’s enriched with Soya Bean extract and Melanin-Block, supporting natural collagen production and helping to restore the skin’s hydrolipidic film overnight. Apply every evening to freshly cleansed skin, and you’ll wake to re-nourished, radiant skin in the morning!
By now, you should know that collagen is good for keeping the skin looking young and fresh, and the benefits of collagen products are practically endless. We’ve mentioned our Age Perfect range quite a bit, so go check out our skin care, makeup and hair colour products designed for our gorgeous mature women!
