In which products can we find collagen?

Naturally present in the body, the collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. In the skin, it is primarily synthesized 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 skin's appearance, it is possible to resort to an external supply of collagen, either orally or topically. This molecule is thus found in many products.

• Moisturizing Cream : Collagen can primarily be found in moisturizing creams due to its humectant action. Indeed, it helps 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 moisturizing 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 classified 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 neutralize 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 that some studies have shown can stimulate the production of endogenous collagen. Serums containing collagen often have a fairly 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 moisturizing creams and deeply nourish the skin while providing the hydration it needs. Masks formulated with collagen are also effective in slowing the appearance of signs of aging.

• Eye Contour : Collagen is also present in products for the eye contour, a delicate area requiring special attention. Here again, it plays a moisturizing 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, with mixed results reported from various studies. Some researchers report a genuine improvement in skin appearance, while others have not observed a significant difference. It's possible that a certain placebo effect may be at play.

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

• The wrinkle and firmness loss serum : Concentrated with 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 just 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.