What is collagen, and how to boost its production ?

What is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the animal kingdom. It is found in bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue and, of course, skin. It represents up to a third of our protein mass.

Its triple helix structure gives it its specific mechanical properties. Collagen acts as a kind of glue, both flexible and strong, holding our cells and tissues together and in place.

Although collagen is generally referred to as “the” collagen, there are in fact at least 28 different varieties, each with its own role, molecular composition, and properties. Many types of collagens work together to combine their qualities. Some take on the appearance of fibers, others operate in a network, or take the shape of beaded filaments. Others are partly identified. Our knowledge of these incredible proteins is not yet complete!

The main types of collagens include: 

- Type I collagen. It accounts for 90% of the collagen in our bodies. It can be found in the dermis, bones, tendons or vascular walls. More specifically, it contributes to skin elasticity and firmness.

- Type II collagen. It is concentrated in cartilage and maintains joint structure and flexibility. This is how healthy cartilage absorbs shocks, enabling smooth and pain-free movement.

- Type III collagen. This one works with type I collagen. It plays a key role in the formation of muscles, organs, vessels, and blood circulation.

Collagen comes from the synthesis of another molecule made up of amino acids and proteins called procollagen. The latter is synthesized in the cells responsible for the formation of connective tissue called fibroblasts.

Although collagen production is natural, it tends to diminish over time. As a result, the skin regenerates less well, losing firmness, elasticity, and suppleness.

Hyaluronic acid and RGTA: a winning combination for collagen in athletes' skin!

Optimal cell renewal is essential for healthy skin, especially if you exercise on a regular basis! Athletes who want to do more without losing their skin have every interest in improving and speeding up the healing process, soothing skin lesions and preventing sores such as irritation, burning and rubbing.

RGTA® (ReGeneraTing Agents) is an active ingredient that has long been used in the medical field. Now available through a range of innovative cosmetic products, it is highly appreciated for its unique ability to optimize spontaneous tissue renewal.

Combined with hyaluronic acid, renowned for its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and healing qualities, it significantly increases its effectiveness, with a drastic increase in type I procollagen synthesis. This combination has been patented.

Type III procollagen production does not increase. This is good news, as we know that type III collagen is a marker of fibrosis, which, when excessive, can lead to hypertrophic scars. Although in most cases they pose no health risk, they are thicker, and can take on a hard, cardboard-like appearance.

Thanks to the combined action of hyaluronic acid and RGTA® to optimize the body's natural regeneration (pro-regeneration), the skin becomes more supple and elastic. It recovers better from the microtrauma that sports practice can cause. When you are preparing for an event such as a marathon or half-marathon, this combination helps improve skin quality to reduce the risk of tissue related problems.

How to boost natural collagen production?

In addition to an optimized skincare routine before and after each sports session, but also as a base treatment, there are many ways to boost our skin's natural production of collagen and procollagen. Here are the four main ones:

Hydrate

Yes! Drinking between 1.5 and 2 liters of water a day is good for just about everything, including natural collagen production!

Exercise and get a massage

Exercise and massage activate blood flow and stimulate fibroblasts, the cells that generate hyaluronic acid and enable procollagen synthesis.

Revisit your diet

To produce collagen, our body needs vitamins, zinc, copper, and proteins.

Choose kiwis, red berries, raw peppers, and parsley, which are richer in vitamin C than citrus fruits, or dark-green leafy vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and spinach.

Meat, offal, seafood, dairy products, whole grains, legumes, and oilseeds are rich in zinc and protein.

For copper, go for dark chocolate, brewer's yeast or calf's liver.

Cut down on sugar and quit smoking

The carbohydrates found in sweet products cling to collagen proteins and make them heavier. Nicotine, present in cigarette smoke, destroys vitamin C. When the latter is lacking, collagen breaks down and the skin sags. To promote the natural production of collagen and preserve your health, try to get rid of some of your bad habits!

Protect yourself from the sun

If UV rays accelerate skin aging, it is mainly because they destroy collagen proteins. To preserve them, avoid prolonged exposure, and never go out without appropriate sun protection, reapplied regularly.