Tag Archives: Collagen

The Link Between Vitamin C Serum and Collagen for Healthy-Looking Skin

vitamin C serum and collagen

To improve the overall look and health of your skin, start with vitamin C serum and collagen supplements.

Want healthier skin? You don’t have to go to extremes to get it. In fact, it’s pretty simple. Look for products containing vitamin C serum and collagen, and the rest will pretty much take care of itself. We’ll tell you why.

Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C serums are skin care products that are infused with vitamin C. They are applied topically to your skin, and usually packaged as a gel or lotion so they are highly moisturizing. Here are just a few other reasons why a vitamin C serum like Vitamin C Concentrated Serum by Derma E might be good choice for your skin:

  • It’s an Antioxidant – That means it can help reverse skin damage caused by the sun and other environmental hazards such as chemicals and pollution.
  • Added Sun Protection – If you use a vitamin C serum along with your sunscreen, it will increase your protection from harmful UV rays.
  • Reduces Inflammation – Vitamin C serums help calm inflammation that causes redness. It can also help even skin tone caused by hyperpigmentation.
  • Protects Against Premature Aging – Vitamin C encourages new cell growth, including collagen which help keep your skin looking plump and youthful.

Collagen Supplements

Collagen is an important protein found in your bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, and hair. You can find collagen supplements in a variety of options including powders such as Collagen Peptides by Vital Proteins, capsules such as Collagen JS 1000 mg by Pure Encapsulations, and topical skin products such as Collagen HA Triple Boost Face Serum by Hyalogic. You’ve probably heard about the advantages of using collagen supplements for your skin, here are just a few:

  • Overall Skin Health – Studies show that collagen supplements can help boost your overall skin health and appearance. Many say they notice that their skin feels more moisturized and looks healthier.
  • May Prevent Acne – There is some research to support the claim that collagen supplements may prevent skin conditions, such as acne.
  • Helps Build Structure – Collagen is what helps support our skin’s structure. As we age, we begin to lose collagen, which can be seen when our skin starts to sag. Taking collagen supplements can help your body build back up its reserves, resulting in plumper, more youthful looking skin.

If you’re serious about improving the overall look and health of your skin, vitamin C serums and collagen supplements are a great place to start. Neither require invasive therapies, and they have proven track records for visible results. See what they can do for you!

Have You Considered Collagen?

ConsideredCollagenJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Most well known for its structural role in the body, collagen is a member of a family of naturally occurring proteins. As the single most abundant protein, collagen makes up 25 – 35 percent of whole-body protein content. There are at least 16 types of collagen, all responsible for a number of important biological functions. However, 80 – 90 percent of the body’s collagen consists of type I, found in bones, tendons and organs; type II, found mainly in cartilage; and type III, largely found in reticular connective tissues in the kidneys, spleen, lymph nodes and bone marrow. Briefly, type IV collagen is found primarily in the skin and type V in hair and cell surfaces.

Often found working with keratin and elastin, large amounts of collagen is observed in connective tissue, where it provides tensile strength in tendons and ligaments, as well as strength, firmness, suppleness and elasticity to the skin. Collagen provides both rigid and compliant structural support, allowing tissues to stretch as needed. In the dermis, collagen helps to form a fibrous network of cells upon which new cells grow. Skin cells are constantly renewing, and collagen aids in their growth and repair. The normal aging process causes collagen levels to deplete naturally over time, contributing to osteoporosis and often resulting in facial lines and wrinkles, stiffer and less stable joints, and a higher chance of tendon and ligament injury.

Avoiding tobacco and excess sun exposure, reducing physical stress, following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise may help to protect collagen, support joint function and reduce visible signs of aging. Vitamin C is a critical factor in collagen synthesis and limits damage induced by sun exposure, providing beneficial effects on skin health. Adequate vitamin C has been shown to stabilize collagen and increase collagen protein synthesis, aiding repair of damaged skin. As a protein structure, collagen is largely composed of amino acids. Dietary protein whether from animal or supplemental sources helps supply the necessary amino acids to build collagen protein. Gelatin, found in bone broth or powdered supplements is another rich source of collagen and can provide a healthy dose of amino acids for collagen formation.

Benefits of Collagen Supplementation

  • Collagen contains glutamine and glycine, amino acids known to help repair the delicate gut wall. Leaky gut or intestinal permeability allows unauthorized particles and toxins to enter the bloodstream through the intestinal wall, contributing to autoimmune conditions, hormone imbalances and digestive issues. Additionally, glycine helps to protect against liver damage, aiding toxin elimination.
  • Collagen helps to protect the mucosal lining, aiding complete digestion and absorption. Even with a healthy diet, insufficient digestive function may deprive the body of critical nutrients necessary for optimal health.
  • Collagen’s amino acids nourish hair, skin and nails, helping to provide more lubrication elasticity and strength, as well as reduce visible signs of aging.
  • Collagen has been shown to support healthy joint function and help relieve typical aches and pains associated with aging and chronic inflammation. Collagen helps to lubricate joints for easier movement, may decrease swelling in arthritic conditions and may reduce the risk of joint deterioration.

Oral collagen supplementation can help support skin structure and bolster the body’s natural collagen production by delivering the specific amino acids necessary for collagen synthesis.  Supplemental hydrolyzed collagen peptides provide both nutrients and bioavailable amino acids that can be readily absorbed into the bloodstream. These highly absorbable nutrients may help to improve skin, hair and nails, relieve painful joints and optimize gut health. Taking vitamin C along with collagen may aid bioavailability, digestion and absorption of supplemental collagen.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality collagen products:

Hydrolyzed Collagen...Hydrolyzed Collagen Plus with Hyaluronic Acid by Douglas Laboratories®: This unique powdered formula provides ideal ratios of hydrolyzed collagen blended with hyaluronic acid. It includes vitamin C, zinc and copper, co-factors that support healthy collagen formation, skin elasticity and hydration. No additional ingredients.

 

Super Collagen plus...Super Collagen + C™ by Neo®Cell: This collagen/vitamin C formula provides specific amino acids vital to collagen formation in support of skin, hair, nails, bones and joints. Free of gluten, soy, wheat, lactose, yeast and artificial flavors. Non-GMO formulation.

 

Beef Gelatin 100%...Beef Gelatin 100% Pure Collagen Protein Unflavored by Vital Proteins®: This nutritional powerhouse provides all-natural, high quality collagen protein sourced from grass-fed, pasture raised bovine hides. Formulated to support youthful skin, healthy hair, and strong nails, as well as healthy bones, joints and digestion. Kosher, gluten free, Non-GMO powdered formulation.

 

Collagen II Joint...Collagen II Joint Formula by Collagen M.D.®: This nutrient-rich formula provides type II collagen proteins, 18 amino acids, vitamin C and a natural blend of chondroitin, glucosamine and hyaluronic acid to help maintain and support cartilage and joint health.  Free of gluten, dairy, sucrose, starch, yeast, wheat, soy, and corn.

 

Collagen Types 1 3...Collagen Types 1 and 3 Capsules by Doctor’s Best: This science-based nutritional formulation provides pure collagen proteins and vitamin C for essential structural support for hair, skin, nails, tendons, ligaments and joints.

 

Collagen JS 1000 mgCollagen JS 1000 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: This formula provides patented, hydrolyzed and denatured BioCell Collagen II® to aid and promote collagen synthesis and enhance synovial fluid, supporting the composition, integrity, and motility of joints. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

References:
Collagen: The Fibrous Proteins of the Matrix. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21582/
Why does skin wrinkle with age? What is the best way to slow or prevent this process? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-does-skin-wrinkle-wit/
Vitamin C and Skin Health. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-C
Collagen Structure and Function. http://proteopedia.org/wiki/index.php/Collagen_Structure_%26_Function

Let’s Discuss Collagen

CollagenJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

 

 

Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein, comprising approximately 30% of overall protein content, and 70% of the protein found in the skin. As the major fibrous protein of connective tissues, collagen is found in bones, muscles, skin, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels and the digestive system, as well as the extracellular matrix, an intricate network of macromolecules that determines the physical properties of body tissues. Without its strength and elasticity our bodies might literally fall apart, as collagen proteins form long chains that provide the structure that holds the body together. Although 16 types of collagen have been identified, the majority of collagen in the body consists of types I, II, and III, all of which support the health and function of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and cartilage and help the tissues to stretch and absorb shock.

Largely composed of the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, collagen allows our tendons and ligaments to move with ease. It works synergistically with keratin to provide the skin with strength, smoothness, elasticity, and resilience. While some of us may think of collagen in terms of its effects on skin health, type I collagen fibrils have enormous tensile strength, such that it can be stretched without breaking. Collagen fibers found in tendons, where they connect muscles with bone, must be able to withstand immense forces. Per the National Institutes of health (NIH), gram for gram, type I collagen is stronger than steel. Type II, the major collagen of cartilage, allows joints to absorb shocks.

Collagen is manufactured by specialized cells known as fibroblasts. Once secreted, collagen strands undergo binding, twisting, cross-linking, folding, and layering to produce the final product. As the enzymes that aid these conversions require vitamin C as a cofactor, a deficiency in vitamin C will inhibit collagen synthesis. As well, genetic defects, nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues can also affect collagen production. Over time, the natural creation of collagen begins to wane, and collagen fibers break down or no longer regenerate. Signs of degeneration include facial lines and wrinkles, as well as joint pain and stiffness. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excess sugar consumption, and high amounts of sun exposure may also contribute to depleting collagen levels. Supplementation with high quality, bioavailable collagen peptides may support bone strength, joint flexibility, skin suppleness, and intestinal health.

Skin, hair and nail health: Collagen aids skin cell renewal and repair. Controlled studies have shown that collagen hydrolysate (peptides) improved skin elasticity, dryness, roughness and texture. Healthy hair and nail growth require collagen as well as keratin and minerals. Dietary collagen works from within to naturally enhance the skin, hair and nails by promoting the collagen formation that supports the skin’s moisture, helps to strengthen nails and adds volume to hair.

Joint health: Collagen loss can lead to joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Studies published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that daily supplementation with collagen decreased painful joint swelling and enhanced daily activities, generally improving quality of life for those suffering from joint issues.

Gut health: Amino acids in collagen help to build the connective tissue that lines the colon and the gastrointestinal tract, helping to prevent intestinal permeability or leaky gut. Consuming more collagen may help to soothe and heal the lining of the intestinal tract.

Blood vessel health: Collagen surrounds every blood vessel and protects the vessel from damage. Along with elastin, collagen helps keep the inside of arteries and veins smooth and elastic, allowing the transport of blood, nutrients and oxygen throughout the entire body.

Muscle health: Collagen fibers make up skeletal muscles, as well as smooth muscles found in the bladder, heart, and reproductive system. Collagen fibers provide muscles with the strength and structure necessary for movement and function.

Nutrients that support collagen synthesis include:

  • Foods rich in amino acids, such as beans and soy.
  • Anthocyanidins found red, blue, and purple fruits and vegetables.
  • Fruits and veggies with high vitamin C content, such as oranges, peppers, and broccoli.
  • Foods high in vitamin A, such as dark leafy greens, tropical fruits, oysters, and oily fish.
  • Plant foods that provide beta-carotene, such as sweet potatoes and carrots.
  • Resveratrol and flavonoids from fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that protect collagen and elastin for skin elasticity. These compounds boost circulation to the tiny blood vessels near the skin’s surface, thereby enhancing the skin’s natural radiance.
  • Hyaluronic acid (HA), found in bone broth, increases skin hydration, stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity. Foods that support the natural production of HA include root vegetables, tofu, and tempeh.

Customer favorite collagen products from Vital Proteins® include:

Collagen PeptidesCollagen Peptides: This very popular and easy to use supplement provides 18 g of protein and 20 g of 100% pure collagen peptides per serving in support of strong bones, youthful skin, reduced joint discomfort and restorative sleep. Sourced from bovine hide, this minimally processed, pasture-raised, grass-fed product is flavorless and odorless and mixes easily with cold or warm food or drink. Gluten and dairy free, paleo-friendly, kosher formulation.

Marine CollagenMarine Collagen: This product supplies Non-GMO collagen peptides from verified wild-caught snapper in support of joint and digestive health, as well as youthful skin, healthier hair and stronger nails. Gluten free, Non-GMO, kosher formulation.

Organic Free Range...Organic Free-Range Chicken Bone Broth Collagen: USDA organic chicken bone broth is crafted with bones from free-range chicken that is slowly simmered to extract maximum nutrients. Low sodium, MSG free, and rich in vitamins and minerals, this clean, tasteless, quickly absorbed powder supports digestion, aids immune function and promotes overall wellness. Gluten free.

Collagen Beauty...Collagen Beauty Greens: This nourishing elixir provides Non-GMO Marine Collagen Peptides blended with healthy organic greens, hyaluronic acid, and probiotics in support of collagen formation, increased skin hydration, strengthened hair and nails, and overall wellness. Flavored with organic coconut water and Madagascar vanilla bean, this product provides a full array of amino acids, as well as vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Gluten free, Non-GMO, kosher formulation.

References:
Collagen: The Fibrous Proteins of the Matrix. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21582/
Amino Acids to Produce Collagen. https://www.livestrong.com/article/428024-amino-acids-to-produce-collagen/
Foods to boost collagen naturally. http://www.naturalhealthnews.uk/article/foods-to-boost-collagen-naturally/