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Beauty buzzwords are thrown around all the time; it can be hard to keep up and know what’s worth exploring further. We’re here to tackle the industry’s latest obsession by getting to grips with the science, talking to skincare and makeup pros, and getting real about what works and what doesn’t.
Collagen: previously the reserve of plastic surgeons, but now the most hyped element of skincare. Does it live up to expectations? Let’s break it down.
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Angela Degville, Brand Ambassador at Skin Republic, says, “Collagen is a protein that provides strength and structure found in our bones, skin, muscle and tendons”. “The word collagen is derived from the Greek ‘kolla’, meaning glue”, Dr Murad, dermatologist and founder of Murad skincare, explains. “To provide some perspective, protein makes up around 20% of the body’s mass, and collagen makes up around 30% of the protein in the human body”.
So, if it’s already a building block in our bodies, what can we expect from it in skincare?
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So while all the bad stuff reduces elasticity in skin, using products with collagen can help build it back up. “By using these, you stimulate the synthesis of new collagen production and as a result minimise the appearance of deep wrinkles and fine lines. Collagen encourages the renewal of cells and minimises facial muscle contraction, which is responsible for the development of wrinkles. The result is firmer, plumper, more youthful looking skin”.
Sounds good to us. But does applying it topically really work, or are injections the most successful methods of keeping skin pillowy?
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Dr Murad suggests a diet that encourages collagen production, too. “Use ingredients that stimulate your skin’s own collagen synthesis and have a diet rich in natural anti-ageing ingredients such as mango, a source of Vitamin C, and Beta carotene which builds collagen; also carrots which contain beta-carotene a powerful antioxidant to help cell damage.”
So, it seems for best results, you should cut out the nasty stuff, wear SPF every day, and eat your superfoods. While some experts aren’t convinced by the topical application of collagen, there are products that use specific technology to penetrate the skin and work wonders for skin’s youthful appearance. Click through to see the pick of the bunch.
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Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion, £65, available at Murad.
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Skin Republic Collagen Infusion Face Mask, £4.99, available at Look Fantastic.
Skin Republic Collagen Infusion Sheet Mask 25ml, $, available at Superdrug
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Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, £44, available at Look Fantastic
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, $, available at Look Fantastic
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Sarah Chapman Skinesis Stem Cell Collagen Activator, £269, available at Space.NK.
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Skinade 30 Day Supply – Ready to Drink Bottles, $, available at Med Facials
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Skinade Collagen Drink, 30 Day Supply, £104.99, available at Skinade.
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