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Collagen is the main structural protein in human connective tissues, most notably our skin. The vast majority of the collagen in our skin is found in the dermis the second layer of skin that sits beneath the epidermis), where it's also produced. Skin cells in the dermis (fibroblasts) synthesize the collagen that holds the rest of the dermis together, giving our skin its underlying structure.
As for the structure of collagen itself, it’s kind of like a braid or rope: Individual amino acids link up to form long chains, which bundle together to form thicker strands. Those strands then twist and coil around each other to form triple helices. Finally, those helices connect end to end and stack on top of each other to form clusters called fibrils. In other words, collagen is a pretty complex and massive molecule.
That’s why creams formulated with pure collagen simply can’t live up to their lofty claims— those huge braided molecules are just too big to penetrate your epidermis, and definitely too big to get down into the dermis where the real magic happens. So even though collagen creams feel nice and may help moisturize the skin, that’s about it in terms of benefits.
Rosacea refers to a redness of the face caused by a condition affecting the blood vessels in the face. It’s more common in middle-aged women with lighter complexions, although rosacea can affect anyone. The exact cause is unknown, though it is typically hereditary and not caused by pore clogs or skin infections. Many people mistake rosacea’s redness and bumpiness of the face for acne. Rosacea has no cure, and it can fluctuate in its severity from month to month.
There are a few ingredients that can help reduce inflammation associated with rosacea. For example, jojoba oil is good for reducing inflammation associated with certain conditions that cause redness. However, it is important to work with a dermatologist to determine the cause of redness on your skin to determine the right course of treatment if it is rosacea or a combination of concerns.
collagen may be effective for rosacea, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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