“Wrinkled skin, aching muscles, painful joints… use collagen.” Are such strong advertisements reliable?
Among the various types of proteins in the human body, one type stands out above all. Without it, human cells would collapse, bones and blood vessels would disintegrate, leaving only color spots of shapeless tissues.
This important component is collagen, a molecule that defines human existence in many ways that most of us are unaware of.
According to the Guardian, some studies show that humans and other mammals have 28 different types of collagen, ranging from Type I collagen found in the skin to Type II collagen found in cartilage.
The “Elixir” for Rejuvenation?
The quality of collagen products on the market is not as advertised – (Photo: THE LIST).
Collagen not only maintains the structure of tissues but also plays an active role in signaling between cells. Additionally, it helps coordinate the movement of cells to repair damage in our bodies and even supports immune responses.
Healthcare professionals have long used collagen-based materials to help control bleeding and treat wounds, burns, and diabetic ulcers.
Collagen is particularly abundant in our skin, contributing to its health and elasticity, which is why it is often referred to as a “miracle drug” for youth.
Collagen is most plentiful in our bodies from childhood until our early 20s, after which it suddenly begins to deplete for reasons we do not fully understand.
From ages 20 to 30, the body gradually starts producing less collagen, resulting in the aging process, both internally and externally.
This contributes to the appearance of wrinkles. Over time, our joints, muscles, and bones also become stiffer, sagging, and weaker.
The rate of collagen production slows down differently for each individual. It can be faster or slower depending on whether one’s lifestyle is “clean” or not.
This data has created an insatiable demand for the amount of collagen we need. Collagen powders, gummies, capsules, and drinks have emerged as a business predicted to be worth £5.85 billion by 2027.
However, it is very difficult to obtain an objective assessment of their actual effectiveness, as nearly all accessible analyses are funded by the cosmetic industry itself.
Gary Goldenberg, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine in New York City, stated: “Initially, I thought it was just a scam. Then we began researching it, and there is indeed some evidence that they can improve the tone, texture, and elasticity of the skin – things we lose as we age.”
Beware of Being Deceived!
However, Goldenberg noted that not all collagen supplements sold on the market are as effective as advertised.
Many regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), do not highly regard collagen supplements in diets. They have even raised concerns that some collagen products contain heavy metals.
Goldenberg also warns: simply buying a few collagen gummies is not enough to counteract unhealthy lifestyle habits such as insufficient sleep or smoking.
“Collagen will not make a 40-year-old look like they are 20 again,” Goldenberg said, emphasizing: “I think advertisers have it all wrong. When I talk to my patients about anti-aging, it’s not about looking younger, but really about looking your best at your age.”
