Collagen: Unique structures found in the deep layers of the skin.
Collagen is the most important structural protein in the human body. It consists of fibers and makes up more than 30 percent of all proteins in the body. Collagen is an essential component of bones, teeth, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and skin. Eighty percent of young skin is composed of this structural protein.
Sun exposure, smoking, hormonal changes, and diet all affect the body's collagen balance. Furthermore, collagen production begins to slow down as early as age 25 and continues to decline throughout life .
Detecting reduced collagen production
Structural change in the collagen network
The illustration shows the difference between a weakened and a strengthened collagen network. In the left illustration, the network is weakened, which can lead to deeper wrinkles. Targeted intake of vitamin C can stimulate normal collagen production in the dermis and allow the collagen network to gradually rebuild. This scenario is illustrated in the right illustration.
The comparison shows that the skin structure is strengthened , the skin surface is smoother and the wrinkles appear less deep .
Low collagen production is noticeable and visible throughout the body.
Reduced collagen production in the skin often first becomes apparent on the face. However, the neck, décolleté, backs of the hands, and upper arms are also frequently affected by visible changes. The middle layer of skin (dermis) is particularly important, as it contains a high concentration of collagen and hyaluronic acid. Collagen forms the basic framework of the network (matrix) in the deeper layers of the skin, which is crucial for the appearance and elasticity of the skin and connective tissue.
Consequences of hormonal changes
Reduced collagen production can also be related to hormonal changes. Hormonal balance can shift, particularly during menopause or pregnancy, which can affect skin appearance and collagen levels. During menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly, with direct consequences for the body's own collagen production. Studies show that the collagen content of the skin decreases by approximately 30% in the first four years of menopause and then continues to decline by about 2% annually thereafter.
