Collagen & Skin

Collagen is a primary support structure of Skin



skin diagram
Collagen is the fibrous protein constituent of skin, cartilage, bone, and other connective tissue. Collagen is the principal constituent of the fiber-network layer of our skin. More than a third of the body's protein is collagen, and it can account for an even higher percentage in particular parts of the body. Collagen makes up 70% of our skin tissue.
Skin is the body's largest organ. It comprises three layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous layer. The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin, composed of cells called epithelial cells. The dermis, the layer underneath the epidermis, contains blood vessels, lymphatic tissue, nerves, sweat glands, hair follicles and sebaceous glands - glands that produce and secrete oil to protect against bacteria. The third layer, the subcutaneous layer, is a supporting layer of fatty tissue.


The skin may appear reddened and even inflamed if the dryness is sufficiently acute. It has been shown that the stratum corneum remains soft and pliable only as long as the moisture content exceeds 10%. Below this, the skin becomes hard and brittle and develops an opacity. It is this outermost layer of the skin that is typically moisturized by application of external lotions and creams. If this outer layer can be made to look plump, transparent and healthy, the overall skin texture will assume a more youthful appearance. In the lower layers of the skin, degenerative changes occur as we age whereby not only moisture is lacking, but also certain complex polypeptides breakdown such as elastin and collagen.


skin collagen diagram
Collagen, the naturally occurring fibrous protein, is a primary support structure of the skin. It gives the skin strength and suppleness as well as an inherent ability to retain moisture, and makes up about 70% of dermal volume. With aging, and as a result of exposure to the sun, our collagen fiber components begin to weaken, become less pliant and more hardened. The result is the development of dry, wrinkled skin that has lost its inherent elasticity.


Vitamin A, C, and E role for Skin

Vitamin A, C, and E are a great promoter of youthfulness. Because these antioxidants aren't produced in the body, we must get it from milk, egg-yolk, carrots (vitamin A), citrus fruits, deeply pigmented vegetables (Vitamin C), corn, nuts (Vitamin E) and supplements to maintain healthy levels. They have shown promise in slowing the speed at which free radicals damage the skin. Vitamin C can benefit your skin by stimulating the growth of new collagen tissue (the protein fibers that make up connective tissues), which ultimately makes the skin appear smoother and firmer because it's better supported by strong collagen underneath.