Call it what you want – self-care, indulgence, hobby or passion – but skincare is a non-negotiable requisite in anyone’s grooming routine. And yes, we’re talking about both face and body care. While serums, moisturisers, eye creams and toners sound as wholesome as you imagine them to be, healthy skin is also reflective of looking after your nutrition and dietary intake.
That’s why it’s no surprise that collagen is so sought after. This natural component is known to give other hype-worthy ingredients like vitamin C a run for their money. To know exactly what are the benefits of collagen for the skin, let’s understand the science behind it.
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is a type of protein that’s naturally found in abundance in our bodies. Collagen also comes in different forms that cater to different needs of the body right from aiding gut health and skin appearance to maintaining steady cardiovascular health. However, our body stops producing this ubiquitous protein as we enter our 20s. This results in the shrinking of the dermis (the second layer of the skin). Hence, it makes the skin prone to moisture loss, sun damage and premature ageing.
Due to the coveted benefits of collagen for the skin, the beauty and wellness space has made it available to us in many forms like gummies, dietary supplements, and topical products like skincare. But the crux of the matter remains - what makes collagen a game changer for our skin? Here are 8 collagen benefits for skin that will make you want to place your order ASAP!
1. Maintains Skin Elasticity
As we age, the skin starts losing elasticity which is responsible for keeping skin soft, supple and glowing. Collagen acts as one of the crucial building blocks of the skin, especially the dermis (the mid-layer of the skin). A healthy amount of elasticity on the skin delays the formation of wrinkles and creases under the eyes, on the forehead and around the mouth, maintaining the skin’s natural ageing process.
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2. Fights Premature Ageing
Wrinkles, folds, and age spots are all indicative of ageing. You start noticing them as you reach your late 20s. Regular intake of collagen along with a collagen-based skincare routine can further delay signs of ageing like forehead lines and crow’s feet giving the face and body a more youthful look.
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3. Maximises Skincare Performance
In order to truly nourish and repair the skin, products need to absorb deep into the skin. When the skin lacks collagen, the layers become thinner, unable to retain what you give it. Restoring collagen levels improves the skin’s ability to hold and use all the goodness of your skincare products.
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4. Fights Sun Damage and Increases Resilience Against Photosensitivity
Sun damage is a type of skin concern that can have long-term effects. While using sunscreen regularly is great, healthy collagen stimulation in the skin can also help reverse signs of sun damage by improving new skin cell production. It also protects your skin from harsh UV rays.
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5. Improves Skin Firmness
The skin around the jawline and the eyes starts to sag as we age. While collagen-based skincare can tighten the top layer of the skin, regular intake of collagen supplements repairs it on a deeper level and increases the firmness of the dermis. This gives the face a healthy, sculpted look.
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6. Improves Natural Moisturisation and Hydration
Hydration and moisture are two fundamental mandates for healthy skin. Collagen helps the skin retain natural oils that keep the skin soft. It can also help trap hydration within the layers of the skin so that it feels quenched and supple.
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7. Fades Scars
Scarring from acne, cystic breakouts, or any wounds results in excess melanin production on the affected area of the skin to protect it from external factors. While this gives the skin time to heal, It also causes scarring. A healthy production of collagen can help fade these marks gradually, giving the skin a clearer appearance.
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8. Improves Scalp Health
What many may not realise is that taking care of the skin on the scalp matters too. The scalp can also be prone to breakouts, flakiness, and dullness. Collagen helps regulate oil production and retains the scalp’s moisture barrier.
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Few More Things to Consider
- Collagen supplements and skincare won’t show overnight results. You must be patient and follow the course for the recommended time period to see results.
- It’s ideal to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements so that you get relevant information and advice on how to correctly include them in your routine.
- It’s crucial to know that collagen supplements are not replacements for balanced diets. As the name suggests, they should supplement or add to a healthy diet and lifestyle so that your skin can heal from within.
- Collagen supplements come in the form of gummies, powders, and tablets. So make sure to do your research on which type of supplement you can incorporate into your lifestyle.
- Regular intake of collagen supplements can also show positive effects on your gut health, bones, joints, hair, and overall health.
Ready to make a healthy choice for that envious healthy skin glow? You now know the secret!
