What kind of collagen is best in skincare?

Description of collagen types:

There are different types of collagen - animal collagen and "plant-based collagen" - and they have different properties and uses.

The three most common types of collagen found in the human body are type I, type II, and type III. When it comes to skin care, type I collagen is the most relevant.

Collagen types:

Type I Collagen:

• This is the primary type of collagen in the skin and makes up about 80-90% of the skin's collagen. It provides structure and firmness to the skin and is responsible for the skin's elasticity.
• Products containing type I collagen may be beneficial for maintaining skin firmness and reducing signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines.

Type II Collagen:

This type of collagen is primarily found in cartilage and joints. It plays a role in maintaining joint health and may be relevant for some types of supplements or products targeting joints and muscles.

Type III Collagen:

Type III collagen is also present in the skin and works with type I collagen to provide support and elasticity. It makes up about 10-15% of the total collagen in the skin.

When choosing skin care products that contain collagen, it is also important to consider the following:

What source does your collagen come from? Plant-based collagen or animal collagen

Collagen can be extracted from animal or plant-based sources. Vegan or vegetarian products use plant-based collagen , which is a composition of amino acids that mimics the collagen structure of the skin.

(see elsewhere in our blog: how collagen is produced )

The choice between collagen in the form of amino acids or proteins for use in skincare can depend on several factors, and both forms can have their own benefits.

Bioavailability:

• Amino acids are much smaller molecules than proteins and can therefore be absorbed more easily by the skin. This can make collagen amino acids more effective as they more easily penetrate the skin layers and can support collagen production.

Targeted effect:

• Amino acids that specifically mimic the skin's collagen structures may be more targeted and effective in supporting the skin's own collagen production.
• However, proteins can also provide a general boost of nutrients to the skin, which can have beneficial effects.

Skin compatibility:

• Some people may experience allergic reactions to large proteins, and amino acids may be a gentler approach that is less likely to cause irritation.

Formula and product stability:

• Amino acids may be more stable in formulations and less likely to degrade or lose effectiveness during storage and use.

Vegan or vegetarian considerations:

• If you desire vegan or vegetarian products, plant-based collagen amino acids will be more consistent with these dietary preferences.

Individual preferences and reactions:

• Skin types and reactions can vary significantly from person to person. Some may experience better results with collagen amino acids, while others may prefer proteins.

Product formulation and other ingredients:

• The formulation of skincare products is incredibly important. (See our blog: Does the formulation matter for the effectiveness of my skincare product?) Products that contain active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, vitamins, peptides and plant extracts improve the overall effectiveness of the product.

Our Collagen serum is plant-based and in liposomal form also containing liposomal vitamin C.

Additionally, regular use and combination with a healthy skincare routine are important to achieve the best results.

Always remember to read ingredient lists, perform patch tests to avoid allergic reactions, and if in doubt, it may be a good idea to consult a skincare expert or dermatologist for personalized advice.