Collagen makes up around 75% of the skin and is responsible for a healthy youthful look. It is a nutural protein which gives structure, firmness and support to our bodies; not just the skin. It is the primary connective tissue of our bodies making up about 25% of muscle tissue. Collagen plumps the skin and prevents wrinkling. Collagen forms much of our cartilage in our joints and muscles. It has been called the glue that holds our bodies together.

Unfortunately, as we get older collagen depletes and we may begin to notice our skin not looking quite so young anymore and our joints not as mobile, perhaps getting a bit stiff at times. The depletion of collagen begins at around 25 years of age as we begin to produce less collagen ourselves and as we further age the depletion of collagen accelerates.

Intoducing collagen to our bodies is one way of attempting to slow down or even reverse this aging process. Some turn to facial injections of collagen to prevent wrinkles. Bovine collagen is usually used for this. It can plump the skin for a few months but is eventually metabolised by our bodies and so the procedure needs to be repeated. If the procedure is not done well the patient can end up with a rather bloated or distorted face. I am sure we can all think of a few exmaples. A much less intrusive form of skincare is collagen supplements. Collagen supplements not only help the anti wrinkling of our skin but also help our joints. But you should choose wisely. You may not always be getting the type or quality of collagen that you think you are.

Points to Consider in choosing a Collagen Supplement

There are two main points to consider when choosing a collagen supplement.

1. How Pure is the Collagen?

There are two main sources of Collagen, Bovine derived collagen and Marine derived collagen. Marine derived collagen is up to 60% purer than Bovine collagen. It is naturally more expensive than the cheaper alternative but probably worth the extra expense. High end cosmetics do not include bovine collagen for that reason but it still may be found in cheaper brands.

2. What are you taking the Collagen for?

Type 2 collagen is good for the joints so if that is your primary concern that's what to look for. However, it has no effect on the skin. The skin requires types 3 and type 7 collagen so for anti wrinkling collagen supplements make sure it contains those types.

There are no less than 28 types of collagen in all. Nowadays it is possible to buy collagen supplements which are blended to include type 2 for the joints but also type 3 collagen and type 4 collagen for a healthy rejuvinated skin. The best of both worlds. But again, look for a pure marine blend of collagen too so as to ensure that overall you are selecting a super collagen.