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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.
Wrinkles are creases and folds that form in our skin, usually most prominent in our face, neck and hands. Wrinkles are caused by the natural process of aging on our skin, though there are a few circumstances that increase the appearance and depth of wrinkles. Exposure to sun, pollution, and cigarette smoke increase the rate of wrinkling. Genetics also plays a role in the skin’s elasticity, plumpness, and the age at which wrinkles begin appearing.
To prevent wrinkles, it’s best to moisturize daily and wear sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals that damage cells and speed up aging. Ingredients and nutrients like rosehip oil, alpha-lipoic acid, herbal extracts, retinol, coenzyme Q10, alpha-hydroxy acids, etc are all beneficial for preventing and reducing wrinkles.
collagen may be effective for wrinkles, 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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