Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It makes up about 6% of our total body weight and about 65% of all the fibrous proteins in the body. It is the essential constituent of the dermis.

Collagen is made up of fibers made by fibroblasts and is mainly located in connective tissue. It is also present in bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, hair, where it acts as a kind of glue, ensuring the cohesion between cells. It brings resistance and elasticity to the skin.

Note: The Greek origin of the word collagen, “kolla” means glue.

There are different types of collagen, with different properties, depending on where it is located. For example, Type I collagen is found mostly in the dermis, bones, and tendons. Type II collagen is concentrated in cartilage and vitreous humor. The active ingredient used in cosmetics can be of marine origin, derived from algae, animal origin, fish, and crustaceans. It has a structure similar to human collagen and is safe for health. There is also collagen produced from yeast extracts.

Collagen and aging of the skin

With age, our skin tends to become thinner, more fragile, more pronounced, and less firm. Over time, we observe that the process of protein renewal in the skin decreases, and among them collagen. This phenomenon may be linked to the genetics of each person, but sun exposure accelerates the breakdown in collagen for all skin types. Collagen fibers give our skin a toned, firm, and plump look. This is why researchers and formulators wanted to integrate these molecules into anti-aging care in order to fight against skin aging and loss of firmness.

The use of collagen in our anti-aging serums

Effective anti-aging serums contain collagen derived from various sources. This molecule fails to cross the layers of the epidermis and penetrate the skin. Its direct application is therefore completely effective for a surface tightening effect; it forms a protective shield and will help keep moisture brought in by Hyaluronic acid from escaping. https://www.morgannasalchemy.com/product/morgannas-illuminate-serum-drops-pea-peptides-and-melanin/

So, What is the best way to stimulate the production of collagen in the skin?

To best way to stimulate the production of collagen by your body,  is to combine the use of serums (preferably, our treatments) as well as small daily actions like facial exercises: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Df3OwSfdsAQ

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1. Facial massages, performed in the morning, can help strengthen your facial muscles and make the skin appear firmer, less tired.
2. We can get used to doing them when applying our creams.
3. Always avoid using too much tobacco and alcohol, and eat a balanced diet.

What are the properties of collagen?

Collagen is continually renewed throughout life. But as we age, its production deteriorates. The collagen produced is of poorer quality, it loses thickness and resistance leading to a loss of elasticity, tone, and firmness of the tissues. It is estimated that from the age of 30, the loss is about 1% per year. To slow down the effects of aging, collagen has made a name for itself in cosmetics. What are its functions?

1. Collagen has the ability to attract and hold water in the tissues, thus fighting against dehydration.
2. It also acts on the surface where it has the power to form a film on the surface of the epidermis protecting the skin against insensible loss of water and against external aggressions.

Why is collagen becoming popular in cosmetics?

Due to its direct implication in the aging of the skin, collagen has become a first choice active ingredient in the fight against aging. The cosmetics industry has incorporated a large number of treatments in order to improve the quality of the skin and preserve its youth. It is used in skin care products to stimulate the natural synthesis of collagen in order to improve the firmness, tone, and elasticity of the skin, all of these determining markers in young or mature skin.

For maximum effectiveness, we also use hydrolyzed collagen in which the molecules have been broken down into smaller particles. Remember to also use it in combination with Vitamin C, also known to stimulate collagen production by activating cell renewal, they will in the process protect the skin from free radicals, responsible for aging.

In which products can we find collagen? Serums, creams, masks, are excellent vehicles for collagen in anti-aging care. It is absolutely wonderful in the formulation of care for dry and mature skin, face and body care, and also in hair care. PS: collagen is a dense protein, a large molecule that cannot pass through the stratum corneum. It remains on the surface of the epidermis where it has an immediate tightening effect, helps maintain the structural integrity of tissues, and limits water loss, thus fighting against skin dryness and helping to maintain good skin quality. Injections are also very popular. In order for collagen to pass the epidermal barrier, it must be split into very small molecules or be injected under the skin using a small needle. So it can have a more in-depth action and restart the natural production of the protein. What are the benefits of collagen? The benefits of collagen on the quality of the skin are well established. Its activity on fibroblasts improves skin flexibility. The skin is more resistant to stretching and marks fewer wrinkles and fine lines, it is smoother and looks younger. Its surface film-forming action also brings a small tightening effect and softness to the skin.