What Is Collagen? Its Role in the Skin, Why It Decreases and What Is Known About Supplements
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the body; it gives strength to the skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. In the skin it is found in the middle layer (dermis) and, together with elastin, helps the skin look firm and elastic. The body produces collagen itself; however, production slows down with age and existing collagen wears out. This article explains what collagen does, why it decreases, what is known about supplements and how to protect the collagen in the skin.
Types of Collagen
There are many types of collagen in the body. Type 1 collagen is the most common in the skin, bones and tendons; type 2 collagen is found mainly in joint cartilage, and type 3 collagen in the skin, blood vessel walls and some internal organs. The collagen type stated on a supplement label shows the source of the product; it does not determine which tissue the collagen taken will go to in the body.
Why Does Collagen in the Skin Decrease?
- Slower collagen production with ageing
- Ultraviolet rays from the sun
- Smoking
- An unbalanced diet and insufficient protein intake
- Changes in hormone levels with menopause
A decrease in collagen may show as thinning of the skin, loss of elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles. However, these signs can also have other causes; complaints such as bone loss, joint pain or fatigue should not be attributed only to a lack of collagen, and a doctor should be consulted.
What Is Known About Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements usually contain collagen broken down into small pieces (hydrolysed) to make it easier to digest. Collagen taken by mouth is broken down during digestion, and the body uses these pieces wherever it needs them. Although some studies suggest that supplements may have a limited effect on skin hydration and elasticity, many of the studies are small and the results are not conclusive. Supplements are not medicines; they do not treat diseases or remove the signs of ageing. A doctor should be consulted before taking supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in case of kidney or liver disease or a fish or seafood allergy, or if medicines are taken regularly. Some people may have mild stomach complaints.
What Can Be Done to Protect Collagen in the Skin?
- Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and protecting the skin from the sun
- Stopping smoking
- Eating a balanced diet with enough protein and vitamin C
- Using retinoid skincare products recommended by a doctor
Vegetables and fruit do not contain collagen; however, the vitamin C they contain is needed for the body to produce collagen.
Treatments That Support Collagen Production
To support collagen production in the skin, treatments such as mesotherapy, PRP, chemical peels, microneedling, microneedle radiofrequency and some laser treatments may be used. The effect of these treatments varies from person to person, usually appears slowly and is not permanent; each has its own risks. The doctor decides which method is suitable after a skin examination. For more information, see our mesotherapy and PRP pages.
Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın