Why should you drink collagen? Collagen for joints, benefits, harm, principle of operation in the human body. How and what kind of collagen do I drink?

Humanity has been searching since time immemorial. New means appear, old ones disappear into oblivion, but still the years take their toll. Today, the minds of women are excited by a new product on the market - drinking collagen. The manufacturer made the advertisement very attractive, pressing on the weakest point. It explains the ineffectiveness of applying products containing collagen to the skin. Through pores, molecules cannot be absorbed and produce the desired effect. But once it enters the body, it will do exactly what is needed, that is, restore skin, nails and hair. Is this really so and is it worth consuming drinking collagen? This is what we have to find out today.

Three ways

Let's dwell on the theory a little more. The fact is that people have long known that collagen and elastin are the substances that give a good appearance. After 30 years, less of it begins to be produced, as a result the skin becomes sagging and wrinkles appear. To stop this process, they began to produce various creams that did not give the desired effect. Then progress moved further. Cosmetologists have learned to introduce collagen using injections. However, the high price and lack of evidence of the effectiveness of this procedure have left it in the shadows. Then beauty experts suggested the easiest way - drinking collagen.

What is it?

In fact, the idea of ​​consuming it internally is not new at all. Eastern peoples knew well that cooked meat, with veins and bones, helps preserve youthful skin and joints. For the Kazakhs it is horse meat broth, for the Russians it is jellied meat, and for the Japanese it is an infusion of seaweed that has gelling properties. Among all these nations, you can find centenarians who are distinguished by good health and the absence of wrinkles. This means that we can assume that drinking collagen is an effective remedy, but not at all a new product.

A little physiology

Let's not argue for now whether the new product is an effective product and whether it is worth buying. Let's turn to physiology for now. This is a protein that our body really needs. Thanks to enzymes, any protein is broken down into amino acids. Then what is the difference whether you ate boiled meat or took drinking collagen? Reviews from specialists in the field of dietary nutrition claim that there is no big difference, but there are practically no sources of it in our daily diet.

Collagen is a special type of which there is very little in meat. The main source is connective tissue. Thanks to a special set of amino acids, it gives tissue density and elasticity. There are a number of functions that perform in the body:

Three types

Today on the market you can more often find animal collagen, liquid, drinking. It is the cheapest and is obtained from cattle skin and pork tissue. Its regular intake replenishes the body's reserves, as a result it helps control the appearance of wrinkles.

The second option is marine collagen. It is also widely advertised and can be found in the market in the form of a ready-made powder for making a solution. It is produced from fish skin, and the structure is very close to that of human collagen fibers. It is produced from marine or freshwater animals, and in some cases this collagen can cause an allergic reaction.

The third type is plant. But in fact, this is a marketing ploy to attract vegetarians and women who watch their figure. This is an extract from wheat grain, which has nothing to do with collagen.

Under the influence of protein, body weight is reduced, energy is increased, and joints are maintained healthy. Collagen supplements strengthen hair and nails and reduce their fragility several times.

How to take collagen protein

It is sold in powder form in stores. Before use, it is diluted with water to make it liquid. The only drawback is the taste, which many find too unpleasant. The smell is also not very pleasing, but purely in the form of benefits for the body it is quite possible to tolerate it.

The proportion is quite simple, one teaspoon per glass of water. In addition, you can use milk, kefir or juice instead of water. Be sure to consume it 30 minutes before meals. Animal collagen is best suited for rejuvenating the body, but marine collagen is best for joint health.

Collagen hydrolyzate

It is sold in most pharmacies and is quite inexpensive. It is used as a dietary supplement. With constant use, this substance can accumulate in cartilage tissues, as well as in the intercellular space. If you take 10 g of collagen protein orally daily, you can reduce damage to cartilage tissue. Therefore, such drugs serve as effective assistants for the prevention of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, help relieve pain and improve well-being. The general course of treatment is one month, but experts recommend using collagen constantly.

"Libriderm" - drinking collagen

This complex includes hydrolyzed collagen, vitamin C and group B. Of course, the composition is very useful. Thanks to the special formula, all components are absorbed by 90%. To achieve the first results, it is advisable to take the drug for at least 3 months, and generally preferably longer. This is not a medicine, but only a protein that every cell of your body really needs. Among those who have already taken Libriderm (drinkable collagen), reviews of the results are quite good. There are no side effects, the body works like a clock, you feel an increase in energy, even after a hard day you don’t feel sleepy. But regarding the reduction of wrinkles, almost no one notes such an effect, except that the skin color becomes fresher. But this is not surprising, because you are not taking a miracle pill, but a simple protein, albeit a very important one.

Doctors' opinions

What do specialists, cosmetologists, dermatologists and therapists say? How do they rate drinking collagen? Reviews from doctors are quite modest. There will definitely be no harm from it, so you can use this additive in your food regularly. The body will break down protein into amino acids, and all of them will be used to ensure its vital functions. But there is no special protein that will only be used to improve skin condition.

According to studies, taking collagen in powder form, as well as in cream form, is ineffective for rejuvenation. The fact is that wrinkles form in the dermis, and that is where collagen fibers should be. When applying a cream, even if it contains similar molecules, their integration into the dermis cannot occur. And drunk collagen cannot be used by the body as a building material for skin cells.

Instead of a conclusion

Using collagen supplements will not harm your body. This is a source of valuable protein, which is the main building material and source of energy. However, by optimizing your diet, you will get exactly the same effect. Therefore, include meat, fruit jelly and jellied meat in your diet, as well as vegetables and fruits as sources of vitamins and fiber. Believe me, the result will be no worse.

Every person, and especially women, always try to find a way to preserve their beauty and youth. Today there are a huge number of methods and tools that promise to give unsurpassed results, but which of them really deserve attention? Many women give their preference to collagen, which can really work wonders on women's skin.

What is collagen and what is it for?

Collagen is a very important protein in the human body, the production of which is carried out by fibroblasts. In addition to the fact that collagen is involved in the structure of the skin, it is also found in our bones, hair, and blood vessels. Despite this, collagen plays a huge role in the life of our face, or rather its youth. As soon as the amount of this element is less than normal, the skin immediately loses its healthy appearance, small wrinkles, dryness and the rest appear. Today it is possible to influence the body and maintain the amount of collagen not only externally, but also internally. To do this, it is enough to use drugs and devices that will stimulate the work of fibroblasts. You can also inject ready-made collagen into the skin in the salon. Thus, you will immediately notice the result and it will be the most effective of all that modern cosmetology has to offer.

What types of collagen are there and how to use it correctly

Today you can find three types of collagen that can be used for cosmetic purposes: animal (obtained from the skin or vessels of animals and is not used today as often as other types, because it can cause severe allergies), vegetable (obtained from wheat protein and is excellent suitable for human skin. Allergies occur very rarely. The price is high and only a few can afford a procedure with this type of collagen) and sea (obtained from the skin of fish. It costs more, but the risk of getting an allergy is not much less than from an animal).

You can use collagen both in the salon and at home. It’s better, of course, to entrust this matter to a professional, just as collagen needs to be injected into the skin. It has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin and give really good results. In order to increase its effectiveness, collagen is administered in a micronized form, because the collagen molecule is too large to fit in a cell, and thus it can benefit our skin. In the salon, collagen is injected with injections. After them, redness and swelling may appear, which will quickly disappear. The effect of collagen will last for six months, then the procedure will need to be repeated.

Homemade collagen is of course not as effective, because it can only reach the top layer of skin. But you should not refuse to use it, because you will have beautiful skin without wrinkles in any case. At home, you can only use collagen as a face mask. You can buy collagen at the pharmacy. It is liquid and is sold in a bottle with a dispenser. As a rule, such collagen is used as an additive to various cosmetic products. Experts recommend using collagen for women over 35 years of age who have already shown the first signs of aging.

So, we can say that collagen is a unique product in cosmetology that will help maintain a beautiful and healthy face without harm to the body. Also, this procedure will use a minimum of chemicals, because collagen is a natural component that will help you stay fresh, beautiful and attractive until old age and even longer!

The active use of collagen in anti-aging cosmetic therapy has led to the fact that its very mention is automatically associated with various injectable preparations, serums and other products that make the skin more elastic.

This is the most famous, but not the only effect of the substance. The effect of collagen is not simply to reduce and smooth out wrinkles, but to generally slow down the aging process. It takes a certain part in losing weight, increasing the body’s endurance, and plays an important role in the sleep process, that is, whether a person gets enough sleep or not.

Collagen is one of the most common and unique proteins in its properties. It is a kind of “adhesive composition” that holds the entire body together, holding together muscle groups, tissues, and organs. An integral part of tendons, ligaments, joints and bones, it provides mobility but prevents these moving parts from falling apart.

Together with elastin, which is also found in connective tissue, collagen makes tissue elastic. This determines the most important function of the substance, thanks to which this protein is included in numerous procedures to maintain youth, firmness, elasticity, and beauty of the skin.

Collagen production decreases with age. The older a person gets, the less amount of this protein is synthesized in the body. This is also facilitated by other factors, which include the three reasons listed below.

We damage collagen

Age-related changes, of course, lead to a natural decrease in the synthesis of this androgenic protein, but the lifestyle a person leads also contributes to this process.

Poor nutrition, bad habits, and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (solar) radiation lead to collagen production beginning to decline at a rapid rate. This also applies to elastin. Eating foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates depletes collagen levels.

If you eat right, get enough sleep, engage in regular physical activity, and try not to be exposed to sunlight during peak hours, this will help significantly reduce the rate of decline in the synthesis of both collagen and elastin, which will lead to maintaining youthful skin and a thin waist.

Along with poor nutrition, poor environmental conditions, and ultraviolet radiation, collagen levels also drop due to smoking, as well as under the influence of toxic chemicals.

The combination of bad habits and poor nutrition with the negative impact of the environment and the natural aging process leads to internal and external self-destruction. This can only be avoided if these factors are limited, that is, by normalizing your own diet and giving up bad habits.

Decreased collagen levels as a result of autoimmune disorders

There are a number of diseases, including autoimmune diseases. They lead to the production of antibodies that damage collagen. Taking collagen supplements can solve this problem. It is not recommended to take such drugs on your own. First, you need to consult with a specialist who will determine the advisability of taking such a remedy, and only then begin therapy.

Most of the factors that lead to the destruction of collagen can be controlled by humans. Of course, this will not completely stop the process of its natural loss with age, but it will not allow it to decrease below the level that is considered natural at a given age.

Useful properties of collagen

The importance of a protein such as collagen for the human body is difficult to overestimate. Its valuable properties and usefulness are noted by everyone who begins to avoid factors that influence the reduction of collagen, as well as monitor their own diet or use supplements containing this substance.

A study was conducted, the focus group of which was women in the age group from 35 to 55 years. During the experiment, pacifiers (placebos) and supplements were randomly distributed between them, some of which contained 2.5 and others - 5 g of collagen. Over the next two months of the study, tests were carried out on the moisture content of the skin, the degree of roughness and elasticity of the dermis.

The results of the experiment showed the following:

• in women who received collagen, and not placebo, the skin became more elastic;
• indicators of improvement in the condition of the skin were more evident among representatives of this age group;
• general improvement of the skin due to hydration - restoration of water balance.

There is another study, the age limit of which was slightly lowered (33-45 years). During the experiment, women used serum containing antioxidants and collagen peptides, which increase protein levels in the body. A few hours after using the drug, statistical changes towards improvement in getting rid of wrinkles were noted. The result was progressive. The improvements lasted from one to three months.

Most women note the fact that after using cosmetics and products containing collagen, stretch marks, wrinkles, and cellulite begin to change and smooth out. This is only the first stage of influence. If you continue to use the products, the improvements will be more pronounced.

Weight loss

Collagen should not be perceived as a miracle cure for getting rid of fat. Protein helps you lose several kilograms, which is due to the increase in metabolic rate as a result of its intake. Collagen hydrolyzate, taken daily at one tablespoon, allows you to get rid of an average of three months up to 4.5 kilograms. Glycine, which is part of the protein, promotes the movement of sugar not into the fat depot, but into the tissues, providing an energy charge.

Collagen's effect on digestion has not been fully studied, but fans of this protein believe that it alleviates many disorders. Especially positive effects are noted by people with increased intestinal permeability.

This syndrome is characterized by the fact that toxins enter the blood through small holes formed in the walls of the intestine. Collagen, filling these holes, prevents this process, and in addition, it:

• relieves irritation from the gastrointestinal mucosa;
• breaks down proteins into ones that are easier to digest and use;
• “creates” new and restores old (damaged) cells of the intestinal walls;
• Helps maintain gastrointestinal motility.

This affects the improvement of digestion processes and stabilizes intestinal function.

Both bones and joints contain their own (anthropogenic) collagen. It is necessary for the human skeleton. And, as shown in a study conducted on athletes, during which some were given a placebo and others were given collagen hydrolyzate, this protein causes improvements in the condition of bones and joints both in a resting and sitting position, and when walking, as well as carrying and lifting various objects. objects.

The studies were conducted not only with athletes, but also with people suffering from arthralgia and problems with the knee joints. The results showed a significant effect of collagen compared to placebo. It has been found that collagen not only maintains health, but also reduces the risk of deterioration of even diseased joints.

Some sports supplements contain collagen due to the protein's ability to enhance athletes' performance and build muscle mass. One study demonstrated a reduced risk of ligament and tendon injuries in athletes who took collagen peptides in dosages of 30 to 70 grams daily.

Taking collagen not only keeps joints and tendons in good condition, but also reduces the risk of injuries of varying severity. The latter is especially important for athletes.

Collagen, being a protein, plays an important role in restoring hormonal levels. Of course, this aspect of the substance has not yet been fully studied and requires more thorough research, but it represents a fairly promising direction in the relationship between collagen and the stabilization of hormone levels in the body.

Energy-providing glycine helps improve sleep. This was proven in a randomized study in which some people received collagen and others received a placebo half an hour before bedtime. Further, the usual duration of time spent in sleep was reduced from seven 7.3 to 5.5 hours on the three subsequent nights.

And although the results of the experiment cannot be called one hundred percent convincing, it was found that in many cases people feel less tired and tired after reducing their sleep time while taking collagen than a placebo. The introduction of collagen into the usual diet improves sleep, eliminates daytime sleepiness, and for some it helps improve the quality of memory.

Neither glycine nor collagen are sleep aids, but they have a positive effect on the sleep process itself.

Where is collagen found?

This protein is present in regular foods that can be included in your diet without any problems. A bowl or glass of bone broth can give you a real collagen boost. The substance is present in both pork and chicken skins. Not all people consume broth every day, and some do not eat chicken, much less pork skin, so preference should be given to dietary supplements.

Powdered collagen peptides, sold in stores and online, can be added to hot and cold drinks. Gelatin and hydrolyzed collagen are available and easily digestible. Daily consumption of any of these selected forms of fibrillar protein (collagen) will not cause any harm, since it has no side effects, but, on the contrary, will significantly improve both the external condition of the skin and the entire body.

From: nutritionsecrets.com

Collagen is the main protein in the human body and other mammals, which is found in connective tissue, as well as in bones, ligaments, skin, joints, and all organs and structures. Collagen is needed to maintain the elasticity and strength of the skin and to maintain the health of the entire body. This protein is found only in multicellular animals, but is completely absent in plants, fungi, viruses, bacteria and protozoa. When collagen is denatured, gelatin is obtained.

Collagen is a protein filament that is part of the intercellular matrix along with elastin and proteoglycans. These threads help maintain connective tissue in good condition and represent about 1/3 of the total mass of all protein in the human body. Together with elastin, they form the framework of the dermis, have a moisturizing effect and give the skin elasticity.

This protein is translated from Greek as “generating glue”, as it connects or glues cells together and contributes to the formation of organs and tissues. Collagen fibers have sufficient flexibility, but are not as elastic as elastin fibers.

Approximately 40% of protein fibers are found in the skin, 10% in internal organs, and approximately 50% in skeletal tissues. The fibers are constantly renewed, but by the age of 25 in men and women, the activity of fibroblasts decreases, which leads to a slow replacement of old collagen fibers with new ones. As a result, skin turgor is lost, the amount of moisture in the cells decreases, and the first wrinkles appear.

Additional fiber damage occurs when a person tenses their facial muscles when they frown or laugh.

In addition, the low content of this proteinoid in the body is associated not only with natural aging, but also with the action of additional factors:

1. Smoking;
2. Effect of sun rays;
3. Air pollution;
4. The onset of menopause in women.

In order to restore lost collagen and prevent its loss, you need to know what products and products contain it.

Types of collagen fibers and their composition

Collagen fibers contain the following components:

• Arginine;
• Leucine;
• Hydroxylysine;
• Valin;
• Phenylalanine;
• Serin;
• Glutamic acid;
• Tyrosine and other beneficial substances.

To date, 28 types of collagen fibers are known, which are encoded by more than 40 genes. About 90% of all collagen fibers are of the first, second, third and fourth types.

1. The composition of the skin, tendons and bones includes the first type of collagen fibers;
2. Cartilage tissue contains the second type;
3. The third type is part of the fetal tissue and vessel walls.
4. Lens capsules and basement membranes consist of type 4 proteinoids.

In the human body, collagen fibers have a wide range of effects:

1. Protective;
2. Stimulating;
3. Strengthening;
4. Increase the elasticity and firmness of tissues.

Tissues receive protection from mechanical damage, and organs receive support and shape. Collagen helps stimulate the formation of cell membranes and inhibits the growth of tumor formations.

Synthesis of collagen fibers

The synthesis of this proteinoid is a rather complex process, the main stimulator of which is ascorbic acid. With a deficiency of this substance, collagen fibers become too loose and their functions are reduced. In addition, hormones influence the synthesis process, helping to reduce the thickness of the dermis and inhibit the activity of specific enzymes. The dependence of synthesis on sex hormones, namely on the content of estrogen in the blood, has been proven, since in women during menopause the number of collagen fibers decreases.

The rate of proteinoid turnover varies depending on where it is contained. Fiber renewal occurs quickly in the liver and somewhat slower in joints and bones. In men, the production of collagen fibers in the body depends on the action of the hormone testosterone, the content of which decreases gradually, so skin elasticity, muscle and bone density last longer.

The production of elastin and collagen fibers accelerates when the skin is damaged (burn, injury or cut). Accelerated synthesis leads to the formation of dense scar tissue consisting of these proteins.

With a congenital disorder of collagen synthesis in humans, diseases such as lathyrism, osteogenesis imperfecta, and Marfan syndrome can be identified. This problem is manifested by the presence of heart defects, damage to the ligamentous apparatus, skeletal system and cartilage.

Sources of collagen fibers

Like many useful substances, this useful proteinoid is found in various foods, but it has a very low concentration.

Most collagen fibers are found in:

• Skin, joints and tendons of cattle;
• In red fish.

Studies show that such animal protein, despite its availability, is not sufficiently absorbed. This is due to its molecular structure, which makes it difficult for the substance to enter cells. Collagen extracted from marine animals is somewhat cheaper, but its disadvantage is a possible allergic reaction.

You can meet this proteinoid in preparations for men and women who play sports.
In some trendy restaurants, you can find dishes with collagen powder, which is added to vegetable, meat or fish products.

Promote the production of collagen fibers and maintain skin elasticity:

• Nuts;
• Citrus;
• Spinach;
• Cabbage;
• Egg yolk;
• Beef;
• Red pepper;
• Brown rice

In the cosmetic field, two methods of delivering collagen fibers are used: stimulation of the synthesis of its own substance and the use of a production proteinoid.

1. For external use, creams, masks or gels with collagen are used. Large molecules of this protein cannot penetrate the stratum corneum of the skin and accumulate in microcracks or skin irregularities. After applying the cream or gel, a moisturizing film is formed on the surface of the dermis. The disadvantages of such cosmetics include only a superficial effect. At the same time, the film on the skin closes the pores and makes it difficult for water to evaporate.
2. For the contouring procedure, special fillers with collagen are used, which are injected under the skin.
3. The mesotherapy procedure, which uses synthetic collagen fibers, is very popular. Injections with collagen fiber are performed to correct lips, acne scars, and age-related changes in the skin. The maximum effect occurs almost immediately and lasts for 12 months.

This substance is also capable of prolonging the effect of oils and extracts included in various cosmetic compositions. When applied to hair, a protective collagen layer is formed on its surface.

Uses of collagen

Preparations with collagen fibers should be taken like regular protein. A single dosage is about 5 g of the drug substance. Drink the supplement in the amount indicated in the instructions between meals. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a dosage of 10 g. For problems with ligaments, joints or tendons, it is recommended to take special preparations with glucosamine, which promote a speedy recovery.

Indications for use:

• Decreased skin tone;
• Flabbiness;
• Wrinkles;
• Cellulite;
• Scars;
• Scarring.

This substance is absolutely safe and does not cause any side effects after administration. If you are individually intolerant to the components of a biological supplement or a medicinal substance containing collagen, an allergic reaction may occur. To avoid undesirable consequences, it is recommended to purchase the product only in specialized stores.

You can improve the condition of the musculoskeletal system with the help of a food supplement that contains ascorbic acid and protein hydrolyzate. The hydrolyzate is a processed collagen fibers of animal origin. They are quite well absorbed by the body and restore the lack of a substance.

The use of collagen as a food supplement is recommended for the elderly and athletes.

Taking this substance will also be useful:

• During the period of rehabilitation after burns or injuries;
• To restore cartilage tissue;
• For joint pain;
• In the presence of "orange peel".

After regular and long-term use of this dietary supplement, you can get rid of joint pain, increase skin elasticity and restore the articular-ligamentous apparatus.

Restoration of collagen fiber content

In order to stop the signs of skin aging and restore proteinoid synthesis, it is recommended to use complex techniques.

You can follow this treatment regimen:

1. Hardware techniques;
2. Contour plastic;
3. Microneedling;
4. Biologically active additives;
5. Special diet;
6. Hormonal drugs.

Of the procedures using a special apparatus, ultrasonic peeling and iontophoresis, microcurrent therapy are popular and effective. For the mesotherapy procedure, it is recommended to use vitamin-protein complexes. At home, you can use the mesoscooter device, which helps stimulate the production of new cells and improves the condition of tissues.

Dietary supplements with collagen should preferably be combined with a diet enriched with vitamins, amino acids and minerals. It is recommended to eat foods that increase the level of the hormone estrogen, such as dates, fatty fish, cereals and vegetables.

Herbal hormones include preparations based on testosterone and estrogen.

It is recommended to use cosmetics or medicines with collagen fibers after consulting a doctor and a medical examination. The doctor will prescribe treatment taking into account the individual problem, which will have the maximum effect.

The main supporting and protective tissue of the human body is connective. It makes up half the body weight and determines the physical characteristics of all structures and organs - skin, bones and joints, ligaments, etc. But the connective tissue itself includes the intercellular substance. It is the basis (matrix) that fills all the space between organs and cells. The matrix ensures the preservation of not only the shape of all structures and cells, but also the functional connection between them, as well as water and mineral metabolism. What is connective tissue collagen? These are protein filaments, which are one of the main components of the matrix, which also includes elastin, structural glycoproteins and proteoglycans.

Importance of Collagen

It is a large molecular protein helix that allows the connective tissue to remain in good condition and makes up 1/3 of the total mass of protein in the human body. They have very high strength and are almost indestructible. For different tissues, there are different types of collagen (more than 19). Its main functions:

• protective - ensuring the strength of tissues and protection against mechanical damage;
• supporting - fastening and shaping the shape of organs;
• restorative (cellular regeneration);
• provides elasticity of tissues together with elastin fibers;
• inhibits the development of melanomas (tumor-like formations of the skin);
• stimulates the formation of cell membranes.

Biosynthesis and breakdown of collagen

A huge role is played by collagen for the skin, in which it is represented by types I and VII. It makes up 70% of its proteins and is located in the dermal layer, providing the skin with tone, strength, elasticity and taking part in their hydration.

Collagen biosynthesis in the skin consists of eight stages. Five of them occur in fibroblast cells, three - extracellularly.

Intracellular stages:

1. Stage I - the synthesis of preprocollagen, a precursor of collagen, on cell ribosomes.
2. II - cleavage of a portion of the peptide chain with the formation of procollagen on the endoplasmic reticulum of the fibroblast.
3. III - oxidation of amino acid residues under the influence of enzymes and with the participation of “C”.
4. IV - transfer of glucose and galactose to procollagen using the appropriate enzymes.
5. V - formation of soluble collagen (tropocollagen) in the form of a triple helix.

Extracellular stages:

1. I - secretion of tropocollagen into the intercellular environment and cleavage of part of the molecular units.
2. II - "cross-linking" of parts of the molecules "end-to-end" with the formation of insoluble collagen.
3. III - the connection of the molecules of the latter "side-to-side" with the formation of strong inextensible spirals.

Biosynthesis is greatly influenced by adrenal hormones (glucocorticoids), sex hormones and vitamin C.

The destruction of collagen fibers occurs constantly under the influence of collagenase and other enzymes, "crushing" them even more. The general scheme of destruction of this protein looks like this:

1. Fibroblasts synthesizing collagen capture its fibers and synthesize collagenase.
2. Collagenase breaks down the molecular bonds of collagen fibers.
3. Macrophages absorb and “digest” them.

The amino acids formed at the same time are involved in the construction of cells and the restoration of collagen. In a young healthy body, the cycle of destruction and synthesis is about 1 month, and the exchange of collagen is 6 kg per 1 year. After 25-30 years, dissimilation constantly increases and gradually begins to prevail over synthesis, as a result of which, with increasing age, the content of this protein in the skin gradually decreases. Collagen restoration in middle age is already approaching 3 kg.

Its fibers are destroyed and become stiff and brittle, damaged, fragmented collagen accumulates, as a result of which the skin becomes less strong and elastic, becomes thinner, becomes sagging and spotty, dryness increases due to the loss of the protein’s ability to retain water molecules, and wrinkles form. The resulting ptosis (sagging) of tissues reduces the mechanical tension of cells, leading to their collapse (decline) and damage to fibroblasts that regulate collagen synthesis. Thus, a vicious circle is closed. Therefore, collagen is called the protein of youth.

Factors influencing synthesis processes

Reducing collagen production and accelerating its destruction is facilitated by:

• excessive ultraviolet irradiation and insufficient hydration of the skin;
• smoking, which leads to narrowing of small blood vessels, decreased blood flow to tissues and the accumulation of free radicals, direct destruction of protein;
• excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, which dehydrate the body and lead to stress in all body systems;
• psychological stress and poor nutrition, containing insufficient amounts of protein, vitamins and minerals;
• some congenital and immune systemic diseases of connective tissue (collagenosis) - rheumatism, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, dermatomyositis, etc.

The use of collagen in cosmetology

There are two directions in cosmetology:

• use of technological collagen;
• stimulation of the body's own protein synthesis.

Depending on the source raw material, three types of collagen are distinguished:

1. Animal origin(the cheapest), obtained from the skin of cattle in the form of hydrolysates. As one of the components, it is included in moisturizing and nourishing cosmetic creams. However, its molecules are very large and therefore cannot penetrate the stratum corneum. External use of collagen in various creams and masks often causes allergic reactions. Obtaining it from cow tissue is very limited due to widespread rabies. Collagen is also produced from porcine tissue, donor or cadaveric human tissue.
2. Vegetable(from wheat proteins), which is better absorbed by skin cells and rarely causes allergic reactions. But obtaining it requires significant financial expenses due to the complexity of the technology. In addition, in essence, plant protein is not collagen, since the latter exists only in the connective tissue of animals, fish and birds.
3. Nautical- produced from fish skin. In its amino acid structure, it is close to human skin collagen and penetrates into its deep layers. The disadvantage of marine fish collagen is the ability to cause severe allergies. However, collagen preparations from the skin of freshwater fish living in clean waters do not lead to such reactions. After a certain time, this protein is destroyed into 19 amino acids. They have moisturizing properties and are used by the body to build epidermal cells.

In cosmetology, collagen is used:

1. For outdoor use as one of the components in creams, gels, masks. Large protein does not penetrate the stratum corneum, but only temporarily fills in skin irregularities and microcracks. The effectiveness of these drugs is explained by their moisturizing effect. It occurs as a result of the hygroscopicity of collagen and the formation of a film on the surface of the skin. But this also has a negative effect, since such moisturizing is only superficial, and the “compress” closes the intercellular pores and makes it difficult for water to evaporate from the skin surface. This result is comparable to moisturizing the skin of the hands when using surgical gloves. The positive effect of these drugs can only be explained by the influence of other components in their composition - antioxidants, trace elements, amino acids, vitamins.
2. In the form of fillers(fillers) used for injection contouring, as well as as one of the components in cocktails with hyaluronic acid and other substances in mesotherapy procedures. They are produced on the basis of human (Cymetra, CosmoDerm, CosmoPlast, Dermologen, Isolagen) and bovine (Ziderm, Zyplast, "") collagen, as well as in the form of combined gels ("Artefil", "Artecoll"), consisting of bovine collagen and synthetic filler PMMA, which stimulates the synthesis of its own collagen. are used to correct lips, defects (scars, post-acne) and age-related changes in the face, and moisturize the skin. The effect of their use is noted immediately and persists, depending on the drug, for 6-12 months.
3. In dietary supplements and in the form of powders (KWC, Ultra Collagen), capsules with collagen hydrolyzate, tablets.

How to restore your skin's own collagen

Stimulation of the process of neocollagenesis is carried out by application.