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Collagen 101: here’s everything you need to know

Collagen 101: here’s everything you need to know

First, a bit of bad news: by the time we’re in our twenties, our skin is already losing collagen (i.e., the fundamental protein that gives our skin its strength and elasticity). As we age, the production and quality of collagen in our skin decreases, leading to visible signs of ageing.   

Let’s separate fact from fiction: topically applied collagen molecules are simply too large to penetrate skin’s surface or restore its collagen reserves, so we can’t build collagen by applying collagen. However, we can help preserve the collagen skin already has.

That’s where Dermalogica’s new Pro-Collagen Banking Serum comes in. Packed with amino acids the building blocks of collagen this formula gets key ingredients where 
your skin needs them and goes beyond plumping to help preserve the collagen your skin has now. The result: more resilient, visibly plumper, and more luminous skin, along with a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles into the future
There’s plenty you can do to help protect, promote, and preserve the collagen your skin has now! Read on to learn what collagen is, why it’s so important to skin health, why we lose it as we age – and how you can help preserve yours. 

what is collagen?   

Collagen isn’t just a buzzword: it’s the most abundant protein in our bodies, accounting for a significant portion of our skin, hair, nails, bones, and connective tissues. You can think of it as the scaffolding that holds everything together. It gives the skin its strength and structural support – maintaining its elasticity and firmness for a youthful, supple appearance. 

 

the different types of collagen   

There are over 28 types of collagen in the human body  but the majority of collagen in the skin (80-85%) is Type I collagen, which is responsible for skin's overall structure. Skin also contains Type III collagen (10-15%) for support and flexibility.  

 

why do we need collagen? 

Collagen is the key to maintaining youthful-looking skin. It provides the framework that keeps our skin taut, wrinkle-free, and resilient. Collagen also aids in wound healing and tissue repair, as it forms a ‘scaffold’ for the growth of new tissue. Essentially, collagen is the foundation for glowing, healthy-looking skin. 

 

what is collagen degradation? 

Collagen naturally degrades as we age, declining at a rate of 1% per year after the age of 30. As this happens, skin’s structure becomes less organized – resulting in signs like fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Various factors contribute to this process: 

  • Age: fibroblast (a type of skin cell) activity naturally declines as we age. Because fibroblasts produce collagen, a decline in collagen production is inevitable.
  • Excessive UV exposureUV rays further accelerate collagen breakdown.
  • Environmental pollution: air pollutants and particulate matter can also degrade collagen. 
  • Chronic stress: long-term stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, which can negatively impact collagen.  

 

what does collagen loss look like? 

Collagen naturally degrades as we age, declining at a rate of 1% per year after the age of 30. As this happens, skin’s structure becomes less organized – resulting in signs like fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. 

 

does collagen serum work? 

Now, the million-dollar question: what does collagen serum do for my skin? The market is flooded with collagen serums – but it’s crucial to note that as a rule, collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin’s surface. So while collagen serums can help with hydration, they can’t actually boost skin’s collagen levels. Dermalogica’s new serum goes beyond plumping to help
preserve skin’s collagen. NEW 
Pro-Collagen Banking Serum is 94% more effective in preserving skin’s collagen for plumper, fuller skin.* Pro-Collagen Banking Serum is formulated with actives to promote, protect and
preserve skin’s collagen today, so you have more tomorrow.

 

Want to learn more about which skin care products are right for you? Visit your local Dermalogica skin therapists for a completely customised regimen.

*Versus untreated skin. Based on in-vitro testing.

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