Collagen: What’s the Deal?

Collagen is a big buzz word these days!

But what is it? Why do we need it? And how should we be using it? Is it best to apply it topically or consume it orally? Or do we really just need to look at improving our body’s ability to produce it? So many questions! And it’s important to get into the nitty gritty because more often than not, companies use trendy words and concepts like collagen to get us to convert!

So let’s break it down together!

What is collagen?

Collagen is a naturally-occuring protein in our bodies that provides strength for our bones, muscles and tendons. The bummer is our bodies actually produce less collagen as we age…and that diminishing process starts at the ripe age of 20 (ugh currently thinking of all the years I’ve been losing collagen already…). In fact, we lose 1% of our collagen every year!

Losing collagen is what causes fine lines and wrinkles…sigh. Collagen encourages the renewal of cells and minimizes facial contraction (the leading cause of wrinkles!) Obviously, it’s important to find ways to incorporate collagen and collagen-boosting steps into our routine to keep our skin plump, hydrated and wrinkle-free!

Does topical collagen work?

Now we know how crucial collagen is to that #goodskinday life, but what’s the best way to go about it? According to scientists, throwing collagen in a moisturizer or other topical product is basically ineffective…womp, womp.

Collagen’s molecular size is actually too large to penetrate the skin. Especially considering that in order for it to be effective, collagen would have to reach the fourth or fifth layer of the skin…and to get that deep, the molecular size would have to be teeny tiny!

So don’t be fooled by a skin care product that contains collagen, friends! Instead, look for collagen-boosting ingredients.

How can I boost my collagen?

There are two ways to boost your body’s collagen levels: applying topical ingredients that are considered collagen-boosting and eating a diet including collagen and collagen-boosting foods.

When it comes to your skin care, look for ingredients such as:

For nutrition and dietary ways of boosting collagen, try to eat more:

Of course, when it comes to collagen-friendly foods, stay away from processed foods, sugar and refined carbs!

Boost your natural collagen for healthy, happy skin!

Just like with a lot of things with skin care, the issue of collagen boils down to what you’re putting in your body, not just on your body. Beauty starts from within, friends! Nurture yourself from the inside-out and you’re bound to see glowing results!

Did this research on collagen surprise you at all?! Let me know your thoughts below!