Collagen for Firm Skin – What You Need to Know

Collagen makes up around 30% of all the protein in our body. There are different types – the most important for the skin are:

• Type I: Makes up 80% of skin collagen. Responsible for firmness and structure.
• Type III: Provides elasticity and suppleness of the skin.

From the mid-20s the body produces less and less collagen. Factors that accelerate its breakdown:

• UV radiation: The biggest external collagen killer. UV rays destroy collagen fibres directly.
• Sugar: Through glycation, sugar molecules bind to collagen and make it stiff and brittle.
• Smoking: Reduces collagen synthesis and promotes its breakdown.
• Stress and lack of sleep: Chronic stress raises cortisol, which breaks down collagen. Good sleep is therefore essential for the skin too.

Hydrolysed collagen peptides are pre-digested collagen molecules small enough to be absorbed by the gut. In the body they travel via the blood to the skin, where they have a twofold effect:

1. Direct supply of building blocks: The peptides provide the amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline – the main building blocks for new collagen.
2. Signalling effect: The peptides signal to the fibroblasts (the collagen-producing cells) that collagen has been broken down and that new production is needed. The cells then increase their collagen synthesis.

Clinical studies support the effectiveness:

• A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed a 15% improvement in skin elasticity after 8 weeks.
• Skin moisture rose by 12-28% after 4-8 weeks in several studies.
• In some studies, wrinkle depth could be reduced by up to 20%.

Not every collagen supplement is equally effective. Look for these quality features:

• Hydrolysed peptides: Only hydrolysed collagen can be absorbed by the body. Native collagen is destroyed in the stomach without taking effect.
• Molecular size: Ideally below 5,000 Dalton for optimal absorption.
• Origin: Collagen from species-appropriate pasture rearing (beef) or from wild catch (fish) is of higher quality than from factory farming.
• Purity: Without additives, flavourings or fillers. Pure collagen is taste-neutral.
• Dosage: The daily dose used in studies is 5-10 grams.

What many people do not know: without vitamin C the body cannot form collagen. Vitamin C is an essential cofactor in collagen synthesis. It activates the enzymes prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase, which are needed for the cross-linking of collagen fibres.

That is why it is advisable always to take collagen supplements together with natural vitamin C. Vitamin C from the acerola cherry offers the advantage of natural bioflavonoids, which as antioxidants additionally protect the skin from free radicals.

Another plus point: vitamin C also supports immune function – so you hit two birds with one stone.

EFSA health claim: Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.