#1 What Is Collagen?
Collagen is the most
abundant protein in the body and is found mainly in the skin, muscles, bones,
cartilage and all the body's connective tissues. In the skin, collagen is
responsible for its strength and elasticity. Collagen is made by the fibroblast
cells found in the dermis. In addition to making collagen, fibroblast cells are
also responsible for elastin production, as well as natural moisturising
factors such as Hyaluronic acid. Fibroblast cells protect collagen by
inhibiting collagenase (an enzyme that breaks down collagen) and also make
pro-collagenases which destroy old and damaged collagen. Normal, healthy
collagen (in lattice-type formation) is incredibly strong. It can be compared
to a rubber band as it is extremely elastic and springs back when stretched.
There are several factors
that contribute to collagen loss including: natural skin ageing and UV damage.
Other key contributory factors to collagen loss include free radicaI damage and
lifestyle (i.e. smoking, excess caffeine, alcohol and sugar consumption). If
fibroblasts are damaged by UV rays or free radicals they will produce defective
collagen.
If deep, long term damage to
the structural proteins occur then the skin loses its tone and structure. Therefore
it is important to safeguard your natural collagen by ensuring protecting your
skin from UV damage and follow a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Adapted
from an article in the IIAA Bulletin April 2018
