Collagen
Collagen is your body’s most abundant protein, representing around 30% of your total body protein and is a major structural component of connective tissue found in your skin. There are many different types of collagen, although type I collagen is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the dermis and is the most abundant collagen type found in your body. Collagen helps to attract and bind water to keep your skin plumped up and hydrated for firmer, younger-looking skin. Visible signs of ageing are related to a reduction in type 1 collagen.
Collagen and the vitamin C connection
Vitamin C is essential for collagen production in your body. The amino acid (protein) building blocks, proline and lysine need vitamin C to be converted into their active forms, hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine; major components of cross linkages in collagen and collagen stability. If there is insufficient vitamin C available in your body, collagen production is compromised. Vitamin C also provides potent antioxidant support, helping to prevent free radical damage and oxidative stress which contributes to premature ageing.
Supplementing with collagen helps to:
- slow down the visible signs of ageing
- reduce fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin
- firm and tone your skin
- replenish lost or declining levels of collagen
- attract and bind water in the skin
- keep skin ‘plump’ and hydrated
- strengthen connective tissue in skin, hair, nails, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone
