Tuesday, 07 July 2009

• Collagen Creams & Supplements -- Keeping your skin young

  I was requested to write about collagen creams, supplements, water, etc. by Iluvgillian. I'm sorry, I'm not a dermatologist or med school student! But this was a really interesting topic.

  

  In Hong Kong, the popular skincare brand ~H2O+ sells collagen water/supplements claiming that they will make you look younger. Collagen is the main protein that is found in your connective tissues. It supports and gives structure to your cells and provides your skin with elasticity and strength. As you age, your collagen levels break down, causing the wrinkled-appearance associated with older age. It is also a common ingredient in wrinkle creams, with the idea being that you are replenishing lost collagen.

  However, it doesn't work that way! Scientific research has not yet shown any strong evidence that can support these claims made by skincare companies. There is no proof that collagen can penetrate through the skin's epidermis and integrate itself into the body's collagen-framework. Think of it like a brick house -- if you throw bricks at it or place more bricks inside, do the bricks integrate itself into the structure of the house? Collagen creams are the same deal. The collagen will simply sit on the surface your skin until you wash your face or shower. Collagen is not completely useless though. It can help your skin retain moisture -- and moisturing your skin is a great preventative step in aging and wrinkles. The problem of wrinkles is usually associated with the normal aging process, dry skin, or arthritis, not a protein deficiency.

  

  Some tips to keep in mind:

  • Collagen is a protein and therefore needs to be derived from animals. So if you are vegetarian or vegan, you may not want to consider using these products.
  • Since it is a protein, collagen supplements will still provide some calories to your body.

  More reliable ways to protect your skin from the inevitable aging process:

  • Protect your skin from the sun's UV rays. Use SPF! (I always thought SPF15 was minimum, but I believe the minimum SPF requirement may be higher now)
  • Moisturize your skin since dry skin shrivels up your cells and gives that fine lines and wrinkle-like appearance
  • Hydrate yourself with water and don't smoke :)

  ~H2O+ is an American brand name. I'm not sure why they released collagen supplements into the Hong Kong market, but not the North American market. Iluvgillian said the he often purchases collagen water in the supermarkets in HK. I'm wondering if North Americans feel more sketchy towards supplements and commercial  products?

  I don't think there is anything detrimental to drinking collagen water, but I don't think you would see direct skin benefits from the collagen. However, most collagen drinks contain vitamin C and they will also hydrate your body. So if it tastes good and you enjoy drinking it, then I don't see why you should stop. You can see some reviews and opinons on the ~H2O+ Collagen 8000 product here. Have you ever tried a collagen product?

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