Collagen Skin: Definition, Types, Function & Benefits

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, acting as a crucial building block for various tissues, including our skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage. Imagine it as a “glue” that holds everything together, providing structure, strength, and elasticity. Its unique triple-helix structure, resembling a tightly wound rope, gives it remarkable strength and resilience.

Beyond its significant role in skin health, collagen is found throughout the body, playing vital roles in:

• Skin: providing structure, elasticity, and hydration.

• Bones: maintaining strength and density.

• Tendons: connecting muscles to bones.

• Ligaments: connecting bones to each other.

• Cartilage: providing cushioning and support to joints.

• Blood vessels: maintaining their structure and integrity.

Marine collagen and bovine collagen are the most common types of collagen of animal origin. Marine collagen is particularly appreciated for its high bioavailability, which means that it is easily absorbed by the body. However, some people prefer to avoid animal products for ethical or health reasons.

Vegan collagen is an increasingly popular alternative. Although it is not collagen per se, it contains ingredients that stimulate collagen production in the body. These products are often enriched with vitamin C, which plays a key role in collagen synthesis.

There are at least 28 types of collagen identified, each with a specific function. However, types I, II, and III are the most prevalent in the human body. For skin health, types I and III are particularly important:

• Type I: the most abundant type, providing structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

• Type III: often found alongside type I, contributing to the elasticity and flexibility of skin, blood vessels, and organs.

Collagen is the key to maintaining youthful, radiant skin, acting as the structural support that keeps our skin firm, supple, and smooth. However, as we age, our natural collagen production gradually decreases, leading to noticeable changes in our skin. This decline results in a loss of elasticity, causing the skin to become looser and start sagging. Additionally, wrinkles and fine lines begin to appear as the skin’s surface loses its smoothness. Furthermore, collagen plays a crucial role in retaining moisture, so its reduction can lead to dryness and dehydration, making the skin appear dull and less vibrant.

Collagen has many benefits for the skin:

• Improved skin elasticity: collagen supplements can help improve skin elasticity, making it appear firmer and more toned.

• Reduced wrinkles: research suggests that collagen peptides may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

• Increased hydration: collagen helps the skin retain moisture, leading to improved hydration and a plumper appearance.

• Other benefits: some studies suggest that collagen may also promote wound healing and reduce acne scars.

To support collagen production and maintain healthy skin, focus on a diet rich in Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, and include collagen-boosting foods like bone broth, chicken, fish, eggs, and beans. Protect your skin from UV damage by using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, avoid smoking to prevent premature collagen breakdown, and manage stress, as it can negatively affect collagen levels.

Diet and food supplements

Collagen-based topical treatments

Caudalie is reinventing anti-ageing with the vegan Collagen 1 in its Resveratrol-Lift collection. Inspired by cutting-edge medical technology applied to plants, this collagen boosts the skin’s firmness and bounce.

To combat fine lines on the face, we’ve developed a collection of highly effective anti-wrinkle skincare products, targeting fine lines and loss of firmness. Number 1 in anti-ageing in France, the Resveratrol-Lift collection combines Collagen 1 Vegan, an innovative plant-derived ingredient, with vine resveratrol, hyaluronic acids and a collagen booster* for smoother, plumper skin.

Collagen 1 Vegan, our revolutionary new ingredient from molecular agriculture, stimulates the production of collagen fibres and improves skin firmness. Vine resveratrol activates essential proteins, while hyaluronic acids hydrate and plump the skin. Finally, the collagen booster firms the skin by acting on all its layers.

Proven effectiveness:

• Visible results: 98% of women see firmer skin in less than 3 weeks(1)

• Anti-ageing power: Three times more effective than retinol, this vegan collagen boosts skin firmness by boosting the synthesis of collagen fibres.(2)

To maximise the benefits of the anti-wrinkle Resveratrol-Lift range, we recommend following a daily routine:

1. 1. Start with Resveratrol-Lift Lifting Serum.

2. 2. Apply the Resveratrol-Lift Firming Eye Gel Cream

3. 3. Then use Resveratrol-Lift Cashmere Cream.

4. 4. In the evening, apply the Night Herbal Tea cream.