What is collagen?
Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the human body and closely involved in all kinds of processes related to blood flow, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and even our digestive system.
Especially important — collagen makes up 80% of our skin. Along with another protein called “elastin”, collagen is a key structural protein that keeps our skin firm and smooth. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe suggests that we think of collagen like a “rope” within our cell structure. When we’re young, that rope is pulled tight; as we age, that rope begins to loosen.
Collagen production slows down as we age
In fact, starting from age 20, we produce about 1 percent less collagen in our skin each year. This “intrinsic aging” causes our skin to become thinner and more fragile as we get older. In addition to intrinsic aging, external factors also accelerate the decay of collagen production. Known as “extrinsic aging” factors, these can include:
- Pollution: smog, dust, smoke, etc.
- UV exposure
- Pesticides and chemicals found in our food
Collagen supplementation offers anti-aging benefits
To help our skin compensate for intrinsic and extrinsic aging factors, there are a few options available to us. First off, using a daily SPF is an absolute must to delay onset of wrinkles and age spots. Secondly, we can consider collagen supplementation.
Adding a low molecular weight, hydrolyzed collagen supplement — or “collagen peptide” — to your daily routine can yield meaningful results. In one very recent study, participants supplemented with marine collagen had a significant 35% reduction in wrinkle score from baseline and reported greater percentage improvements in overall skin score (9%) and wrinkle (15%), elasticity (23%), hydration (14%), radiance (22%), and firmness (25%) scores vs placebo.
Time Blast by THE APRILAB is a potent anti-aging bend, packed full of easily-absorbable (low molecular weight) marine collagen, milk ceramides and Vitamin C.
