Why does my skin need Collagen?

Learn more about what Collagen is, what it does, and how it can help us to look younger for longer.

What is Collagen?

In simple terms, Collagen is a key structural protein, which keeps our skin looking plump, healthy, supple and youthful. Because it helps skin hold its shape and firmness, it’s often referred to as the “scaffolding” for the face. But Collagen is found throughout the body, and it is a vital building block not just of healthy skin, but of healthy hair, nails and bones too. Collagen occurs naturally, but as we age, production slows down, and levels can be adversely affected by UV exposure, smoking, stress, pollution, hormones, inflammation – and even lack of sleep. Skin Collagen production declines by approximately 1% every year from the age of 30 (or even earlier depending on certain genetic/lifestyle factors).

Why is Collagen so important?

Declining Collagen levels can lead to a loss of elasticity, firmness and radiance. A balanced diet, Collagen supplements, professional facials and certain aesthetic treatments can all enhance Collagen production, up to a point. Topical skincare products designed to boost Collagen production can also help to lift, plump, firm and recreate youthful contours. In other words, the more we have, the better we look.

How do I incorporate Collagen into my skincare routine?

There’s no shortage of skincare products that include Collagen as an ingredient. But it’s important to realise that not all Collagen skincare is created equal. For example, some Collagen molecules are simply too large to be absorbed into the skin. Importantly, the products that make up the Carol Joy London Collagen Collection feature three different types of Collagen, for maximum efficacy. These are:

1. Collagen Peptides. They act as messengers which send signals to the fibroblasts (cells that synthesise Collagen) to stimulate their metabolism and kick-start Collagen production within the dermis

2. Insoluble Collagen Fibres. These form a 3-D network that resembles the skin’s structure, providing instant hydration and reducing irritation.

3. Soluble Collagen Fibres. They infuse moisture into the upper levels of the epidermis.

What other skincare ingredients can help to boost Collagen levels?

There are a number of active ingredients to look out for that can also support the skin’s ability to produce collagen. These include Retinol, Vitamin C, Niacinamide and Peptides.

Vitamin A

Retinol (a type of Vitamin A) is regarded as one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients available. It stimulates the production of collagen and helps to promote cell regeneration. While it’s best known for its ability to increase elasticity, minimise the appearance of wrinkles, and improve texture and tone, Retinol can also decongest pores and reduce the appearance of sun spots and pigmentation. Look out for it in our Intense Face Moisturiser and Touch of Silk products.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is well known for its skin-brightening benefits. But it’s also essential for the synthesis of healthy Collagen. That’s because Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects skin from damage caused by free radicals, which cause inflammation and Collagen breakdown. It’s also a key ingredient in our Brightening Face Mask, Everyday Moisturiser, and Cleansing Cream.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide, which features in our Her Eyes Only formulation, is another potent antioxidant that delivers all sorts of different benefits to your skin. Also known as Vitamin B3, Niacinamide can regulate excess oil levels, and counter dryness by strengthening the skin barrier function. It can also boost the production of Collagen and elastin (another key protein responsible for skin elasticity).

Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids which occur naturally within the body, and act as the building blocks of different proteins, including Collagen. Peptides are skincare communicators. There are lots of different types, which target different skin concerns. Collagen peptides are key ingredients in a wide range of Carol Joy London skincare. In addition to the Pure Collagen Spray, Collagen Eye Mask and Collagen & Hyaluronic Face Mask, they also feature in the Ultimate Face Serum.

The potency of the collagen used by Carol Joy London is what helps to produce instant and transformational results. This pioneering technology has been harnessed within our Pure Collagen Collection to deliver brighter, youthful, radiant skin. 

To discover more about Carol Joy London's collection of Collagen products visit our Collagen Collection page.