Collagen – what is it and why it’s important

We’ve heard the word ‘collagen’ before on skincare adverts, but what exactly is it? Simply put, it’s a protein and guess what, it’s actually the most abundant protein in your entire body! Who knew, right!? Collagen is the queen component of our connective tissues like skin, muscles, ligaments and tendons and its actually kind of a big deal. Collagen provides your skin with structure and helps to strengthen bones. It’s the fibrous ‘glue’ that holds everything together and can also be found in your organs, skin, hair, nails, teeth, blood vessels and your digestive system.

Let’s talk skin – it holds everything together and its something we need to take care of and protect, especially as we get older. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen which can lead to wrinkles and dryness. If you want to avoid injectables, why not try adding more collagen into your daily routine! Think of it as a time machine that helps wind back the clock when it comes to your skin. It can be broken down and reabsorbed into the skin which helps boost your skins natural production processes. Plump, fresh and youthful complexion anyone? It’s a yes from us!

These days collagen can be taken in the form of supplements, it’s found in many skin care products such as creams, face masks etc and is naturally found in bone broths and pork skin (woohoo, more crackling!).  Many other foods such as kale, beetroot, spinach, tomatoes, fish and more also have collagen boosting properties! In your mid 30’s, collagen production begins to slow down a bit. By your early 40’s it begins to deplete faster than your body can naturally reproduce it, and by age 60, over half of your entire body’s collagen will be depleted. Say WHAT! So really, by adding collagen rich foods or a supplement into your diet is a pretty good idea! Take care of the skin you’re in with some of our favourite supplements. We love Nature’s Way Rosehip & Collagen Tablets and Voost Effervescent Collagen Tablets both sold at Woolworths.