Wrinkles are a problem that each of us will face sooner or later. This process begins after 25-30 years of age and is caused precisely by collagen fibers. Why? Read the article and find out what collagen fibers are responsible for in the human body!
What are collagen fibers in the skin?
Collagen fibers are natural proteins that have high elasticity. Therefore, the more collagen there is in the skin, the firmer it is and the younger it looks. In addition, it is also the basic building block of skin, bones, muscles, teeth and tendons. Collagen fibers are made of amino acids such as glycine, proline, hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine. Unfortunately, however, as we age, its synthesis decreases until it finally stops completely after the age of 30, causing the skin to lose its firmness. This is also when wrinkles begin to appear.
Types of collagen
Interestingly, there are as many as 29 types of collagen – but unfortunately, scientists do not know the known functions of each. In contrast, there are 2 types of collagen in the dermis layer. We are talking about type 1 collagen, which accounts for almost 80% of all collagen in the body, and type 3 collagen – the remaining 20%. Both are found in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, tendons, and form scars, etc. However, it is type 1 collagen that is referred to as the collagen of youth.
What is collagen responsible for?
Collagen fibers perform many useful functions in the body. First of all, they have an impact:
- Hair – collagen strengthens hair from the roots, which protects against hair loss.
- Nails – prevents nails from splitting and cracking.
- Bone and cartilage system – collagen fibers are the building blocks of bone. They add flexibility to them, so they also protect them from breakage.
- Joints – collagen affects the production of joint lubricant, which improves the functioning of cartilage.
- Immune system – the amino acids in it are needed for the functioning of the immune system.
However, that’s not all. Collagen fibers also have a tremendous impact on the appearance and condition of the skin.
What role do collagen fibers play in the skin?
Collagen fibers are important for many reasons. One of them is also a radiant-looking and wrinkle-free complexion. This is because it restores elasticity to the skin, thereby also smoothing out wrinkles. Moreover, collagen fibers are also responsible for hydrating the skin, which in turn affects the regeneration of its cells. It makes the complexion radiant and the face looks young and radiant. Thus, the lack of collagen in the skin means not only the appearance of wrinkles, but also the deterioration of the complexion. As a result, it also becomes gray, lacking in color, and sometimes acne or hyperpigmentation also appear.
It’s also worth mentioning that collagen fibers exhibit water-binding abilities, which contributes to proper hydration and moisturization of the skin. However, that’s not all. This is because collagen exhibits regenerative properties and accelerates wound healing. In addition, it promotes the reconstruction of connective tissue, and when the amount is maintained at the right level, the chances of wounds healing without visible scars increase.
Unfortunately, with age and under the influence of UV, the synthesis of endogenous collagen decreases, resulting in visible changes in the condition of the skin. The situation is also aggravated by free radicals, toxins and high and low temperatures. Combined with a lack of vitamins and minerals, the skin begins to change its appearance. So as a result, it loses firmness and begins to be covered with more and more visible wrinkles.