Collagen to prevent premature skin ageing

Looking younger or aging gracefully - that's what every woman wants. It's impossible to turn back time, but it is possible to be happy in the skin of your own age. As we age, our skin evolves and we need to adjust our skincare routine. The aim is not to change our appearance, but rather to accompany it as best we can in its aging process..^{1, 4}

Skin aging

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, protecting us from the outside world. It is our primary immune barrier. It excretes waste products and regulates our body temperature. Over the years, the skin undergoes various changes, including aging, which is a natural phenomenon influenced by internal and external factors. These changes can be visible as early as our twenties, and become more pronounced with age..^{1, 4}

Skin ageing is a natural process that begins in our twenties, and accelerates particularly during the menopause.

Skin in your twenties

Signs of wrinkles and fine lines can appear as early as your twenties. However, skin aging begins even before these signs appear. This "damage" accumulates and only appears later.

The main culprits are the environment, genetics, natural aging and lifestyle.

During this slice of life, collagen production begins to decline by 1% per year, which thins the skin and encourages the creation of fine lines and wrinkles. Not to mention the skin's moisture barrier, which becomes thinner and drier.

Starting a skincare routine early is good for your skin's long-term beauty..^{1, 4}

The challenges of your thirties

Understanding skin aging allows you to act proactively to preserve your skin's beauty and health.

In our thirties, signs of wrinkles, pigmentation spots, loss of firmness and dryness begin to appear, with a drop in collagen and elastin production (proteins essential to skin firmness and elasticity) and a slowdown in cell renewal. The first fine lines may appear around the eyes and mouth. This is when uneven skin tone and lack of radiance become apparent..^{1, 4}

Visible signs of aging (around 40-50)

As the years go by, the skin loses more collagen, resulting in more pronounced sagging, particularly in the cheeks and neck. Wrinkles become deeper and more visible, and sebum production declines, making skin drier. Brown spots (age spots) also begin to appear as a result of sun exposure..^{1, 4}

Sagging skin (around age 60 and beyond)

After the age of 60, sagging skin becomes more visible. The lack of collagen and elastin leads to greater sagging of the face and body. Our skin's barrier function weakens, making it drier and unable to retain moisture. Wrinkles become more pronounced, and skin can appear thinner and more fragile. The cell renewal process also slows down, making the skin more prone to infection and dehydration..^{1, 4}

Hormonal changes and skin after menopause

In women, the menopause has a significant impact on skin aging due to reduced estrogen levels. This can lead to a loss of skin density and structure, making it more fragile and prone to wrinkles. Skin also becomes drier due to reduced sebum production..^{1, 4}

External factors

Although skin aging is largely genetic, several external factors can accelerate the process:

• Excessive sun exposure and UV damage

UV rays are the main cause of premature skin aging. They break down collagen and promote the formation of wrinkles and brown spots.^{1, 2, 3, 4}

• Tobacco: Cigarette smoke reduces the skin's oxygen supply and accelerates its degradation.^{1, 2, 4}

• Exposure to chemicals, drugs, medications, etc.^{1, 2, 3, 4}
• Endocrine disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are omnipresent in our environment. They are found in our creams, clothes, cosmetics, detergents, etc.

They can penetrate our skin and interfere with the functioning of the endocrine system. This can have a negative influence on the health of our skin, our sleep, our growth, our reproductive system, etc.⁸

A good skin routine

Nutrition

A diet low in green vegetables and high in caffeine, black tea, fizzy drinks and so on. All these deficient dietary causes can alter the quality of our skin.^{1, 2, 7}

A balanced diet is essential for good health.

• At least 50% varied vegetables of all colors
• A plate of 25% unrefined cereals and/or starches
• 2 to 4 tablespoons of quality oils a day to provide fatty acids
• Nuts and oilseeds, a good source of healthy fats and fiber
• Animal proteins, fish and/or vegetable proteins (tofu, legumes, etc.)
• Fruit and berries for the antioxidants they contain.^{1, 2, 7}

Stay sufficiently hydrated

Water is the best drink for hydration, providing nutrients and flushing waste products from the body.

Hydration naturally reinforces the skin barrier. The water contained in the layers of our skin maintains its various components and ensures its firm appearance. Even a slight lack of water can lead to skin slackening and the appearance of wrinkles.

Moisturizing improves skin elasticity, balances sebum levels, fights the appearance of skin rashes, prevents skin aging, etc.

What's more, dehydration leads to snacking, especially of sugary foods.

Drink water in all its forms with chlorophyll, herbal teas (nettle, oat straw, Labrador tea, etc.), in broth, etc.^{1, 2, 7}

Sleep

Lack of sleep (not enough hours of sleep) and insufficient sleep (not enough quality sleep) can weaken the skin barrier, affecting its appearance and texture. After a bad night's sleep, dark circles appear, along with a paler complexion and puffy skin around the eyes. Skin appears dehydrated.

It's during sleep that the skin repairs itself and recovers from the aggressions suffered during the day. After a good night's sleep, skin looks healthier and more beautiful.^{1, 4, 6}

Physical activity and stress

Physical activity helps to naturally regulate the production of certain hormones, including cortisol (the stress hormone). This reduces its production, which in excess can have harmful effects on the skin (dryness, sensitivity, accelerated ageing, etc.).^{1, 9}

Skin structure and function

The epidermis is the superficial layer of the skin, relatively thin and solid.

Dermis and epidermis

The dermis comprises 3 layers: the papillary dermis, the reticular dermis and the deep dermis, which is made up of water, elastin, fibroblasts, glycoproteins and collagen. The dermis ensures the skin's support, suppleness and elasticity. It nourishes the epidermis and plays an essential role in healing.

Collagen, found in the dermis, gives skin its suppleness, while elastin enables it to regain its shape after being stretched or pinched.

Skin beauty and the absence of wrinkles are linked to the proper production of collagen, since skin contains 75% of it!

As the dermis is a true skin, meaning that it does not renew itself as the epidermis does, it remains the same throughout our lives.^{1, 3}

The benefits of collagen for the skin

Collagen plays an essential role in the appearance and health of the skin. It is the most abundant protein in the human body. In fact, skin contains 75% collagen and is responsible for the elasticity, strength and regeneration of all tissues. It also plays a vital role, particularly as the body ages, since its production declines over time.

In fact, from the age of 21, skin collagen production declines by around 1% per year. This invariably leads to skin thinning and a progressive loss of elasticity.

Collagen is the skin's main source of firmness, suppleness and radiance. What's more, wrinkle-free skin depends on adequate collagen production.^{3, 10, 11, 12}

Collagen molecules are a large family of proteins that are essential constituents of the human body's support tissues, and are of animal or fish origin.^{3, 10, 11, 12, 13}

Vegetable or vegan collagen

Vegan collagen does not supply collagen directly, but contains essential precursors such as the amino acids (L-glycine, L-proline, L-lysine) needed to stimulate its production by the body. Certain plant-based foods can help stimulate its production by providing the nutrients needed for its synthesis as building blocks.^{3, 10, 11, 12, 13}

Collagen peptides induce cell-attracting mechanisms and help repair and regenerate all tissues, including skin, nails, hair and joints.

Collagen is considered the "glue that holds our bodies together".

When we talk about collagen, we often associate it with skin and the role it plays in beauty. However, when we realize that it is present throughout our bodies, we understand that its role is more than just aesthetic.^{3, 10, 11, 12}

28 types of collagen have been identified

Type I is the most abundant. It is found in skin, arterial walls, bones, teeth, tendons and ligaments. It is also present in scar tissue for tissue healing. Type II is found in hyaline cartilage and the cornea. Type III is found in blood vessels, spleen, lymph nodes, uterus and intestines. Type IV has been observed in the crystalline lens and kidneys.^{3, 11, 12}

Collagen can aid recovery from injury and improve physical performance. It can also improve bone density and reduce bone degradation. It is also beneficial in helping to heal the intestinal mucosa.^{3, 11}

Collagen and cardiovascular health

Collagen also plays a role in cardiovascular health by reducing arterial stiffness, which is a higher risk factor in the elderly. Finally, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.^{3, 11}

Collagen, an anti-aging aid

Collagen is an essential molecule in the fight against the effects of aging and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, important for keeping our joints, skin and bones healthy.^{3, 11}

EtikHA from Revelox, for your health and beauty

Introducing the product EtikHA from Revelox, a highly concentrated formula of collagen precursors, with the addition of hyaluronic acid designed to fight the effects of aging, acting as a natural anti-inflammatory.^{12, 13, 14}

A synergy of the best vegan and anti-aging ingredients

EtikHA is a vegan collagen in powder form. Active ingredients include glycine, proline, lysine, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, silica, zinc and beet powder.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, best known for supporting our immune system, is also beneficial to our body's various systems, including skin regeneration, as it is involved in collagen formation.^{1, 2, 12, 13, 14}

In the diet, plant sources rich in vitamin C: citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruit), peppers, broccoli, etc., are particularly beneficial.

Proline

Proline is an essential amino acid for collagen structure, enabling the formation of the triple helix that gives collagen its rigidity and stability. It is particularly important for skin and joint health.

Lysine

This amino acid helps stabilize collagen structure by promoting the cross-linking (i.e. networking) of collagen fibers. It aids absorption of calcium, iron, zinc and other minerals for healthy skin, joints, hair, nails and more.

Glycine

This is the main amino acid in the structure of collagen, accounting for around a third of its component amino acids. Glycine is essential for the formation of the collagen triple helix and helps maintain the integrity of skin, tendons and joints.^{12, 13, 14}

In the diet, vegetable protein sources rich in these three amino acids: legumes (lentils, peas, beans), quinoa, nuts and oilseeds, etc., are essential.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in our bodies, notably in the skin, joints and eyes. It is recommended for its moisturizing properties and benefits for the skin. Taking hyaluronic acid in supplement form can have several benefits:

• Skin hydration: Hyaluronic acid can help keep skin hydrated, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and promote a more radiant complexion.
• Joint suppleness: Due to its lubricating properties, it can be beneficial for joint health, particularly those suffering from joint pain and stiffness.
• Reduced inflammation: It may also have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be helpful in certain inflammatory conditions.

This elastic molecule is rich in water, and acts as a kind of cement that fills the gaps between cells to ensure their cohesion, reinforcing their protection against external aggression. However, as we age, the quantity of hyaluronic acid diminishes, leading to tissue dehydration and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.^{12, 13, 14}

As a result, it becomes unavoidable to moisturize the skin from within (the dermis) with the addition of a supplement.

N.B. Hyaluronic acid has antioxidant virtues, which also give it a protective role against sun damage, including UVA rays.^{1, 2, 3, 12, 13, 14}

Silica

Silica is an invaluable aid to collagen construction and bone mineralization. It also has a positive impact on nail, hair and skin health.^{12, 13, 14}

Zinc

Zinc is an essential micronutrient for collagen formation. It also stabilizes skin sebum production and helps prevent acne. It inhibits the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme of testosterone, responsible for hair loss in both men and women.^{12, 13, 14}

N.B. White spots on the nails are a sign of zinc deficiency.^{12, 13, 14}

Beet powder

Beet powder is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It is rich in vitamin C and minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc. Beetroot powder is a perfect ally in the formula, as it also contributes to collagen formation.^{12, 13, 14}

In conclusion

Significant points of EtikHA from Revelox :

• An advanced anti-aging formula
• Maintains skin firmness, integrity and structure
• Maintains joint, integumentary and dental health
• Contributes to antioxidant action to reduce the effect of free radicals
• Helps maintain vitality and a healthy immune system^{12, 13, 14}

"Never give up on something you can't go a day without thinking about!" Winston Churchill

About the author

Marie Couture, Certified Naturopath

Specialized in :

• Digestive disorders
•  Inflammation
• Hormonal problems
• Stress management

References :

Books :

1. Andréewitch Claire, Mes petites Routines Beauté Glow pour rayonner naturellement, Hachette livre (Marabout), 2022, 126 pages

2. Le Cren Frédéric, Les antioxydants, la révolution du xx1 siècle, Éditions Quebecor, 1999, 223 pages

3. Schauch Dre Marita, B. Sc., DN, Le collagène Mythes et méprises, Friesens Corp. 2014, 124 pages

Web :

4. https://www.typology.com/carnet/comprendre-la-peau-a-differents-ages?srsltid=AfmBOorM7QNMXiOAFDZSjvIZbipJeA-NRfzgi4JTdkr9i7dzgcg26pnV

5. https://www.laroche-posay.be/fr-be/article/hydrater-sa-peau-au-quotidien-est-essentiel-pour-ralentir-le-processus-de-vieillissement-cutane

6. https://www.cerave.fr/conseils-d-experts/conseils-et-astuces/sommeil-et-peau#:~:text=Selon%20des%20%C3%A9tudes%2C%20les%20personnes,sombres%20et%20un%20teint%

7. https://www.quebec.ca/sante/alimentation/saines-habitudes-alimentaires/eau-boisson-de-choix-pour-hydrater

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9. https://www.casavecchiacorsa.fr/blogs/casavecchia/sport-et-peau-les-bienfaits-insoupconnes-de-lactivite-physique#:~:text=%C3%89tonnamment%2C%20une%20activit%C3%A9%20physique

10. https://www.medecine-anti-age.com/actualites/bien-etre/les-bienfaits-du-collagene-sur-la-peau#:~:text=Le%20collag%C3%A8ne%20poss%C3%A8de%20de%20multiples,anti%2Doxydante%20et%20anti%2Dradicalaire

11. https://www.isabellehuot.com/blogs/articles/collagene-allie-anti-age?srsltid=AfmBOoosOiR3svxI_lPSSGPIqqWvG84fV3CKqcM62De4p94bUPlagx2l

12. https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Solutions/PlantesSupplements/Fiche.aspx?doc=collagene_ps

13. https://laboiteagrains.com/blogs/beaute-et-bien-etre/les-secrets-du-collagene-pour-une-peau-en-sante

14. https://laboiteagrains.com/products/etikha-formule-avancee-de-collagene-vegan-revelox