What are

is actually made from natural collagen, which is a form of protein that is quite abundant in all mammals, including humans. It is found throughout our bodies; it's elastic, fibrous structure makes it vital to the proper functioning of connective tissues such as cartilage and ligaments, and it is even present in the bones and teeth.

Without it, our joints become stiff and painful, and our skin begins to sag and we develop wrinkles. Collagen products can help in delaying these visible signs of aging.

Collagen Cream

This term is actually a bit of a misnomer; these molecules are relatively large and complex, and therefore are difficult to absorb through the skin by topical application. It is most effective to take collagen products orally. Capsules release this substance into the bloodstream, where it is able to travel to all parts of the body.

That said, most products that are thought of as 'collagen cream' does not actually contain this substance in its original form; rather, it is a scientifically formulated lotion/emollient with ingredients that stimulate the body's own natural production.

Quality Ingredients

These ingredients are primarily derived from natural plant and animal sources in a base of distilled and de-ionized water, which is used in formulations for which the highest levels of purity is necessary. Other ingredients you will find in collagen cream include:

- sesame oil and tocopheryl acetate, important sources of Vitamin E

- ascorbic acid, better known as Vitamin C

- oat flour, which has long been used for cosmetic purposes and is plentiful in rejuvenating anti-oxidants

- serum albumin, a naturally-occurring and necessary type of protein that facilitates the distribution of fluids throughout the body's systems

- retinyl palmitate, a form of Vitamin A that has been scientifically shown to reverse many of the effects of aging.

What about 'Soluble Collagen'?

Because it consists of large molecules that are not easily absorbed through the skin, traditionally the only really effective ways of replacing lost collagen directly has been either through taking it internally in a pill or gelatin capsules, or through expensive and often uncomfortable injections.

Recently, there have been collagen products that incorporate a special form derived from the outer skin of certain fish. This protein is naturally present in all animal species; however, the molecules that make up that of fish are substantially smaller than that of mammals such as cattle, pigs and humans, and may be able to be absorbed through the skin though topical application.

Will It Work for Me?

No two people are exactly alike, therefore it cannot be known which collagen products are right for your particular case. However, there is a wide variety of such products available; if in doubt, try a number of different collagen creams to see which one is most effective for you.