What is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body, a framework of your cells and tissues. Twenty-eight known types of collagen make up 90% of the collagen present in the human body.

Let’s have a look at the roles collagen plays and why it’s important

Collagen is present in our connective tissue, skin, tendons, bones and cartilage and is mainly composed of amino acids, glycine, proline and hydroxyproline making up three strands, which gives it its triple-helix structure. This provides structural support to tissues and plays an important role in cellular processes such as:

• Tissue repair
• Immune response
• Cellular communication
• Cellular migration (tissue maintenance)

Fibroblasts cells found in our connective tissues are responsible for the production and maintenance of collagen. As we age, our collagen becomes fragmented, our fibroblasts function weakens and therefore, collagen production significantly slows down.

This slow down and loss of another key structural protein called elastin, is what kick starts the aging process and leads to a loss of skin tone and formation of wrinkles. After menopause, these changes are more important, further affecting the structural integrity of the skin.

Where to find collagen?

Both oral and topical collagen based products are sought-after for improving skin tone, wrinkles, skin hydration and joint pain. Cosmetic companies will provide solutions like moisturizers and serums because of its moisturizing and humectant properties.

Our bodies naturally produce collagen but we can also consume it, through dietary sources, including collagen supplements which typical come in powder, capsule and liquid form. Keep in mind though, that studies that have shown that taking collagen supplements may improve skin hydration and elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, were funded by companies that manufacture collagen products, which could have influenced the results of those studies. The fact is, you can help your body make and maintain healthy collagen levels and bone tissue through your diet by including enough high quality protein, vitamin D, calcium, vitamin c and zinc.

Collagen’s Nemesis

As mentioned earlier, one factor affecting collagen loss is our natural aging process, which is inevitable. However, certain dietary and lifestyle choices in our control can accelerate this process.

Here’s a quick, non-extensive list of Do’s and Don’ts to help your skin age gracefully.

DO

• Consume a healthy balanced diet including collagen and vitamin C- rich foods:
  • Bone broth
  • Fish & shellfish
  • Egg whites
  • Citrus fruits
  • Berries
  • Tropical fruits
  • Garlic
  • Leafy greens
  • Cashews
  • Beans
  • Tomatoes
  • Bell peppers
• Decrease stress through regular exercise & meditation practices
• Use collagen based topical such as moisturizers and serums
• Use a daily broad spectrum UVA UVB SPF 30
• Stay hydrated folks, and remember, consistency is the name of the game!

DON’T

• Consume high levels of sugar & processed foods
• Consume excessive alcohol
• Smoke
• Expose your skin to the sun for extended periods of time

Looking further into topicals

Our team of experts at Europelab work alongside leading and highly reputable universities around the globe to propel forward innovation that exceeds industry trends and standards. We prioritize efficacy over trendy in order to offer truly innovative, performance-based formulations using cutting-edge technology and delivery systems. This unique method ionizes and polarizes the molecules to allow the active ingredients to easily penetrate the skin and reach specific cell membranes from the superficial to the deeper layers of the skin, hence maximizing the synergy and benefits of pre-selected active ingredients for highly efficacious formulations. As a result, we have an impact at the dermic level providing true results and helping maintain healthy skin longer.

Europelab uses a marine collagen exclusively from non-endangered hot water fish species. It is a rich source of amino acids, a powerful moisturizing agent with soothing film-forming properties to restore and soften the skin.

Which of our formulas contain collagen?

You can find collagen in our Classic in stock, ready-to-market collection with our Vitamin C Serum, a highly powerful antioxidant care specifically formulated for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Composed of revitalizing ingredients, this Vitamin C formula comes from a newly patented technology allowing it to increase its performance in a stable and controlled manner. True concentrate of vitamins, proteins and lipids, this serum reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. A vivifying protective formula that reveals day after day the skin’s youthful beauty.

You can also find it in our classic collection Eye Contour Cream. This must have revitalizing cream relaxes the eye contour area and visibly reduces the signs of aging. Rich in hyaluronic acid and peptides, it intensely moisturizes the eye contour and wrinkles are visibly reduced. Stimulating, this cream reduces the appearance of dark circles and bags under the eyes. In 4 weeks, the eye contour area appears brighter and more youthful.

Let’s rap this up!

The key take away here is, that it isn’t just one ingredient that will give the results or benefits you are seeking for, just as it isn’t just one type of food that offers you a well-balanced and nourishing diet. The synergy of carefully selected ingredients along with how these actives are delivered within the skin, combined with a healthy lifestyle and diet, will allow you to achieve a holistic approach to your gracefully aging skin.