Collagen 101

Choose the Best Collagen For Your Skin

We’re always told, that as we age our skin losses it’s collagen. But, how much do you actually know about what collagen is, and if you are using the correct one?

Collagen is the most abundant protein found in mammals. It is mostly found in fibrous tissues such as tendons, ligaments and the skin, where it provides structure and connectivity. Type I collagen makes up 90% of the collagen in the body, and is the collagen type found in the dermal layer of the skin. Collagen and elastin protein in the skin is produced by the fibroblast cells in the dermis through a complex process, which involves amino acids – glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, with assistance from vitamin c.

The problem with aging is that, as one ages, the production of new collagen by our dermal fibroblast cells slows down. Slowing down of collagen production contributes to facial wrinkles, loss of structure and elasticity, and a general loss of youthful appearance.

A common approach in collagen support by other anti-aging skincare products is to provide a topically applied collagen supplementation using animal collagen – usually fish or porcine. But, over the years, many researchers have determined that breaking down collagen with either alkaline, or enzymatic hydrolysis produces a product that can increase the collagen production of cultured cells. However, there are issues when incorporating these fragments into a skincare product that make it less than ideal for collagen supplementation.

  1. The use of animal byproducts in skin care products is becoming less desirable to consumers.
  2. There is a contamination concern.
  3. The broken down collagen has lost its structure and integrity after hydroxylation resulting in random peptide fragments, which are not reliable in producing consistent results in cell culture models.

So, when searching for collagen in skincare products, this “broken-down” collagen that you want to avoid is usually listed as hydrolyzed collagen in the ingredients.

In seeking to overcome the problems with hydrolyzed collagen, we are offering a new solution based on advanced technology – lab produced collagen as an alternative to animal sourced collagen. Our Collagen Mask and Mist, is a clinically efficacious alternative that simulates the protein structure of human collagen.

Our “human-like” collagen is produced by a bio-identical molecular process, in which bacteria are “taught” to produce collagen as the human body would. This collagen is water-soluble and is structurally and biologically similar to human collagen - making it more suitable for skin care applications than collagen fragments from animals.

And YES, it works!

A four-week clinical trial of the Collagen Mask and Mist Spray Treatment was conducted by BioScreen Labs - an independent skincare test lab.

Fifty female test subjects between the ages of 40 and 65, with visible wrinkles, participated in the test. The subjects were asked to avoid using other skin care products during the testing period. They were applied the Collagen Mask every three days, and Spray Treatment daily.

These are the results after the four weeks:

  • 92% Improvement in smoothness, appearance and overall complexion
  • 91.7% Improvement in texture
  • 88% Improvement in firmness
  • 87.5% Improvement in skin luminous/radiant
  • 87.5% Overall reduction in fine lines and wrinkles

This product has been clinically shown to penetrate into the skin, to plump and reduce wrinkles. It helps to repair skin damage after laser treatment or severe peels, calm inflammation after invasive treatments, and has a long-term impact of improved skin and collagen production.

Our skin is different from that of animals, so why would you be using animal collagen? Use the proper collagen for your skin and you are sure to see results!

Ask for this mask and spray duo at your local Stemology spa!