Collagen is a structural protein that is a key component of the body’s skin, bones, joints and other connective tissues. Recently, it has gained popularity as an ingredient in dietary supplements and cosmetics designed to support skin health. However, the question arises: is collagen absorbed through the skin?
Types of Collagen
Collagen is a type of protein found in animal organisms, including humans. There are several types of collagen, each with its specific functions in the body. The basic types of collagen are:
- Type I collagen – is the most common type of collagen in all connective tissues such as skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and teeth. It is responsible for the strength and elasticity of these structures.
- Type II – is the main component of articular cartilage. It is also found in the vitreous body of the eye. It provides cartilage with elasticity and resistance to compression.
- Type III collagen – appears mainly in the skin but also in the arteries. It plays an important role in wound healing, as it is the first collagen synthesised during the formation of new connective tissue.
- Type IV collagen – this is crucial for basement membranes, which have important functions for the structure and function of tissues such as blood vessels, kidneys and muscles.
- Type V – supports the formation of type I collagen fibres, particularly in elastic tissues such as connective tissue, skin, muscles and lungs.
- Type VII collagen – is mainly found in the reticular layer of the skin and is important for maintaining its structural stability.
Collagen Benefits
The protein of youth is a key component of connective tissue, which forms the foundation of skin, bones tendons, ligaments, as well as other tissues. Among the properties of collagen, we can include:
- Improved skin elasticity – collagen is the main component of the skin that gives it firmness and elasticity. It makes the skin youthful and resilient.
- Support wound healing – collagen protein plays a key role in the wound healing process. Why? It forms the support structure for new skin cells.
- Strengthen hair and nails – collagen supports the health of hair and nails, improving their appearance and condition.
- Joint and bone protection – the protein of youth provides flexibility and strength to tendons and muscles. In bones, collagen is also part of the bone matrix, which gives bones their strength and flexibility.
- Improved skin appearance – regular supplementation with collagen helps to reduce wrinkles, which contributes to maintaining a younger appearance.
- Increased immunity – collagen supports the maintenance of a healthy gastrointestinal tract, and thus can also support improved immunity.
Collagen in Cosmetics
Collagen plays an important role in cosmetics, as it is a key skin protein responsible for skin elasticity, firmness and hydration. As the skin ages, collagen production decreases, which can result in a loss of firmness and the appearance of wrinkles. Cosmetic products with collagen aim to improve the condition of the skin. How does collagen work in cosmetics?
- Improves skin elasticity – collagen is a key protein that forms the structure of the skin. The youth protein in cosmetics can improve the elasticity of the skin, causing it to become more resilient.
- Improves skin hydration – collagen retains moisture. Adding it to cosmetics helps to increase skin hydration levels, which is important for skin elasticity and a healthy, youthful appearance.
- Speeds up skin regeneration – skin can develop scars or discolouration from sun exposure or acne. Collagen helps in the healing process of wounds and improving the overall condition of the skin.
- Protects against environmental damage – cosmetics that contain the youth protein in their formulation act as a protective barrier against negative environmental influences, such as UV radiation or pollution.
Forms of Collagen in Cosmetics
3 main types of collagen can be found in cosmetics:
- plant – it is extracted from plants, such as algae or soya, for example. Its purpose is to increase skin hydration and firmness,
- marine – derived from fish skins or scales. It is used to improve the elasticity and regeneration of the skin,
- animal – often derived from the bones, tendons or skin of animals such as pigs or cows. Its purpose is to increase the firmness and hydration of the skin.
Collagen Absorption – Facts and Myths
Answering the question “Does collagen absorb through the skin?” requires a closer look at the myths surrounding this topic.
- Collagen in cosmetics penetrates deep layers of the skin: This is one of the most common myths associated with collagen-containing skincare products. In reality, collagen molecules are too large to pass through the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. Instead, collagen in creams or lotions works on the surface of the skin, creating a hydrophilic layer that helps improve hydration and elasticity.
- Collagen supplements are absorbed directly into the skin: When you take collagen supplements orally, in the form of capsules, powder, or liquid, they are digested in the stomach and absorbed by the body. Once collagen enters the bloodstream, it is distributed to various tissues, including the skin. However, this does not mean that collagen from such supplements penetrates directly into the skin from the outside.
There is ongoing research into the absorption of collagen through the skin, with findings that are not always conclusive. Some studies suggest that small fragments of collagen, especially when applied as micro- or nanoparticles, may penetrate the epidermis. This can provide benefits such as improved hydration and elasticity and potentially help with skin aging and wrinkles.
While there is no definitive answer to whether collagen is absorbed through the skin, it is worth noting that the primary benefits of collagen for consumers often come from consuming it as dietary supplements. These supplements help increase collagen levels in the body, improving the condition of joints, skin, hair, and nails.
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