Collagen

Since there is an ever-increasing demand for anti-aging products, the quality of the various products available have become highly developed as well. In the past, the only age-defying treatments in the market were overrated ointments and creams that never yielded positive results. Fortunately, experts have discovered that collagen is a huge factor in wrinkle appearance, and such discovery has driven them to come up with treatments that offer better results.

Collagen is a type of protein which is naturally found in human skin, tendons, and bones. Those that are found in the skin serve to maintain skin elasticity and strength. However, these collagens eventually break down or are completely lost as a result of aging. When this happens, skin problems such as sags and wrinkles appear.

The use of collagen therapy can minimize and reverse the unwanted consequences of aging. There several techniques of collagen treatments. Among these, collagen injections earned the most fanfare and media coverage since these are well-associated with models and actors. The injectable collagen has been developed as wrinkle treatment and minor dents on the skin. This technique is expensive, with each treatment generally costing around $350. Even if collagen injections are known to have immediate results, the swelling and pain that comes with the treatment is a huge trade off for most people. Moreover, results are temporary, which means additional expenses when the results wear off.

Two major collagen fillers are involved in most cosmetic procedures – human-based and bovine fillers. The human-based collagen fillers have three types: autologen, isolagen, and dermalogen. Autologen is sourced from the patient’s own skin and is taken from a previous surgery. Isolagen is likewise derived from the patient’s own skin. However, it is not taken from a past surgery, but is actually a clone of the cells from behind the ear responsible for making collagen. Dermalogen is harvested from deceased humans and is made to undergo sterilization and processing.

The choice of collagen filler should be discussed with the doctor thoroughly. Risks of allergic reactions associated with the bovine type is greater since the collagen used is not human-based, and results are likely to disappear faster as well.

Another type of treatment involving collagen is the use of partial protein products. These products, which often come as creams, are widely available in skin care centers. Such products are marketed as collagen injection alternatives, and work by transferring collagen right into the skin area in question. However, these are only able to transfer partial proteins, and not the whole collagen molecules utilized in other treatment options. Due to this fact, results obtained are inconsistent and temporary.

There are also liquid collagen available which enhances weight loss by controlling a person’s appetite. This type also provides the protein energy that the body needs. The presence of Vitamin C is said to be crucial for the collagen to function as an effective weight loss option. Oxygenated water in some products are not recommended. Other benefits of liquid collagen include: support normal functioning of the joints; promotes younger and healthier skin; offers protection and support for tendons, muscles, cartilage, bones, and other organs; assists in wound healing; supports cholesterol health.

Currently, collagen capsules have captured the limelight. They claim to provide the most efficient, long-term cure for collagen deficiency. These products are said to provide a real and permanent enhancement to any skin condition, with results that get better with time.

Our need for collagen is inevitable. And with too many temporary and mediocre solutions flooding the society, choosing the one that can give us the best results through safe means is a constant struggle.