When it comes anti-aging “Collagen” has become the gold standard and collagen products are definitely having a moment. So, I thought it is only appropriate to take a deeper dive into collagen vs collagen stimulating ingredients. No, they aren’t the same thing, so let’s chat!
What is collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and plays a crucial role in the structure, strength, and elasticity of various tissues, including the skin. It is often referred to as the body's "building block" protein. Think of it as the frame of your mattress.
Our natural collagen production can start to decline as early as in our 20s, hence the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and visible pores.
Collagen vs Collagen Stimulating Ingredients:
Most creams and serums in the market contain collagen and boast instant results when it comes to reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. In some ways they do. These creams add hydration to your skin instantly plumping your skin therefore reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. However, collagen molecules are relatively large, making it challenging for them to penetrate the skin deeply. So, applying collagen topically may not significantly increase the skin's collagen levels and most likely will not give you any lasting anti-aging benefits.
On the other hand, there are products formulated with active ingredients to stimulate skin’s natural collagen production. When formulated with proper delivery methods, these active ingredients can penetrate the deeper layers of your skin to increase collagen production giving you more long-lasting anti-aging benefits and results. They are definitely more effective in the long term. Downside is that they aren’t magic potions that can make you look 10 years younger overnight, but with consistent use you should start seeing results within 30-60 days.
What are some of the collagen stimulating ingredients to look for in your skincare?
Peptides:
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can signal the skin to produce more collagen. Different peptides serve various functions, such as enhancing skin elasticity and firmness. (Found in Kalaia's Keep Smooth Day & Night Serum)
Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin):
Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and are known for their collagen-boosting properties. Even though I’m not particularly fond of retinol for many reasons, they do stimulate collagen production, promote skin cell turnover, and can help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid):
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect existing collagen from damage. It also supports collagen synthesis and brightens the skin. Look for stable and high-concentration forms of vitamin C in skincare products. (Found in Kalaia's Keep Smooth Day & Night Serum)
Growth Factors:
Growth factors are proteins that play a role in wound healing and tissue repair. In skincare, growth factor products may help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. There are some controversy surrounding the sourcing of Growth Factors, which is a topic for another blog post, so make sure to take a closer look at the sourcing information if you choose to give it a try.
Gotu Kola:
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, including collagen. The body combines various amino acids, including glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and arginine, among others, to create the unique structure of collagen. And guess what, Gotu Kola contains several of these amino acids including glucine and arginine. When penetrated into the deeper layers of skin, Gotu Kola can increase skin’s collagen production. (Found in Kalaia's Keep Smooth Day & Night Serum)
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3):
Niacinamide can improve the skin's moisture barrier and support collagen production. It may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. (Found in Kalaia's Keep Smooth Day & Night Serum)
If you are looking for a product that contains multiple of these ingredients to give your skin the maximum anti-aging benefits, look no further than Kalaia’s Keep Smooth - Day & Night Serum. Packed with Gotu Kola, Stable Vitamin C, Tripeptides, and Niacinamide, it is designed to give you the ultimate youthful complexion at every age!
Meet Paula, one of many customers who first hand experienced the power of these amazing active ingredients:
