In which products can we find collagen?

Naturally present in the body, collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. In the skin, it is primarily synthesised by the dermal fibroblasts and is found in the extracellular matrix where it provides elasticity, flexibility and resistance to tissues by acting as a binder. However, its production decreases over time, a phenomenon that promotes skin sagging and the appearance of wrinkles. To compensate for this decline and improve the appearance of the skin, it is possible to resort to an external supply of collagen, either orally or topically. This molecule is thus found in many products.

• Moisturising Cream : Collagen can primarily be found in moisturising creams due to its humectant action. Indeed, it helps to prevent dehydration by forming a thin film on the skin's surface, thereby limiting the evaporation of water from the epidermis and protecting it from external aggressions. Suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive, the collagen is a hygroscopic molecule with the ability to attract and retain water in the skin tissues. It can be found in both fluid moisturising creams and care products with a rich texture.

• Sun Care : Even though collagen is not a sunscreen, it is sometimes found in the formulation of creams, lotions or sprays aimed at protecting the skin from UV rays. This type of care can be described as 2-in-1 as it allows the skin to maintain a good hydration level while protecting it from the sun. Moreover, the antioxidant properties of collagen fit perfectly into a sun care product as they give it the ability to neutralise free radicals, thereby limiting the harmful effects of oxidative stress, particularly generated by UV rays.

• Serum : Collagen can also be incorporated into hydrating, antioxidant or firming serums. It can particularly be combined with vitamin C, a molecule which some studies have shown can stimulate the production of endogenous collagen. Serums containing collagen often have a rather thick texture, due to the high molecular weight of this active ingredient.

• Mask : We also find masks enriched with collagen. To be applied once or twice a week, these treatments complement the action of moisturising creams and allow for deep nourishment of the skin while providing the hydration it needs. Masks formulated with collagen are also effective in slowing down the appearance of ageing signs.

• Eye Contour : Collagen is also present in products for the eye contour, a delicate area requiring special attention. Here again, it plays a moisturising role and contributes to the prevention of dehydration fine lines, these small superficial streaks that form at the corner of the eyes when the shield formed by the skin barrier is weakened and can no longer retain water.

• Powder, capsule, ampoule : The use of collagen goes beyond topical application and now extends into the realm of nutricosmetics. Indeed, in recent years, an increasing number of powders, capsules and ampoules containing collagen have been introduced to the market, promising radiant and firm skin. This method of collagen administration is somewhat controversial, and has been the subject of several studies, with mixed results. Some researchers report a genuine improvement in the appearance of the skin, while others have not observed any significant difference. It is possible that a certain placebo effect may be at play.

At Typology, we have decided to incorporate collagen into two of our products:

• The wrinkle and firmness loss serum : Concentrated in vitamin C and collagen, this treatment suitable for all skin types firms the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. It is applied morning and evening on clean, dry skin and helps to boost the natural production of collagen while protecting it from free radicals.

• The smoothing eye contour mask set : Comprising a mask and silicone patches, this comprehensive treatment smooths dehydration fine lines and brightens the eye contour in 10 minutes. The mask's effectiveness, enriched with collagen and polyglutamic acid, is enhanced by the patches, acting as a second skin: insensible water loss is reduced and the absorption of active ingredients is promoted.

• RODRIGUEZ M.I. Collagen: A review of its sources and potential cosmetic applications. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018).

• AHUIRRE-ÁLVAREZ G. & others. Collagen hydrolysates for skin protection: oral administration and topical formulation. Antioxidants (2020).