The truth about collagen is that it is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is found in the bones, muscles, skin, and tendons. This is the substance that holds the body together and provides strength and structure. Collagen is secreted by various cells, but mainly by connective tissue cells. It is found in the extracellular matrix. This is an intricate network of molecules that determines the physical properties of different tissues. Collagen is made up of amino acids.
Endogenous collagen is natural collagen, synthesized by the body. Â Exogenous collagen is synthetic. It comes from an outside sources.
What does collagen do?
In the dermis, or the middle layer of skin, collagen helps form a fibrous network of cells called fibroblasts, upon which new cells can grow. It also plays a role in replacing and restoring dead skin cells.
Some collagens act as protective coverings for delicate organs in the body, such as the kidneys.
With age, the body makes less collagen. Therefore the structural integrity & tone of the skin declines. Wrinkles form, and joint cartilage weakens. Women experience a dramatic reduction in collagen synthesis after menopause. By the age of 60 years, a considerable decline in collagen production is normal.
Does taking collagen supplements & using collagen creams work?
The truth about collagen is that products containing collagen, including creams and oral supplements, claim to revitalise the skin by increasing collagen levels within the body. This is as collagen molecules are too large to be absorbed through the skin. Any benefit is probably due to the moisturizing effects of these products. They do not directly increase collagen.
Can you rebuild collagen? The truth about collagen
Yes – the body can go on rebuilding collagen provided it has the essential amino acids that it needs.
Use the correct products
Organic Apoteke products are rich in all 19 amino acids that make up collagen. By applying our unique formulations that contain these vital amino acids – our products enable your skin to rebuild collagen and elastin. Organic Apoteke products that are specifically designed to help the skin rebuild collagen are Rasayana Rejuvenating Serum which is also rich in Gotu Kola. This Ayurvedic herb shown in research studies to improve collagen synthesis when applied topically. Other products rich in amino acids that rebuild collagen are Rejuvenating Face Cream & Rejuvenating Face Mask.
Marmapuncture massage, an ancient Ayurvedic technique can stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin.  By applying pressure or needles to vital points on the body, accompanied by very specific massage techniques skin & muscle cells are stimulated to produce more collagen. Our facial and body treatments include these marma massage technique. The combination of our amino rich & nutrient rich products with the marma massage techniques ensures that our treatments are effective. You will see results. The Rasayana Rejuvenating Facial aids collagen production in the face.  The Marma Body Rituals increase collagen synthesis throughout the body.
Eat a diet rich in amino acids & nutrients that support collagen synthesis.
A healthful diet rich in vital amino acids can help the body produce collagen
Nutrients that  support collagen formation include:
- Proline: found in egg whites, meat, cheese, soy, and cabbage.
- Anthocyanidins: In blackberries, blueberries, cherries, and raspberries.
- Vitamin C: In oranges, strawberries, peppers, and broccoli.
- Copper: In shellfish, nuts, red meat, and some drinking water.
- Vitamin A: Occurring in animal-derived foods and in plant foods as beta-carotene.
The truth about collagen – How to prevent its breakdown?
Some factors can deplete the levels of collagen within the body. Avoiding them could keep the skin healthy for longer.
High sugar consumption: High-sugar diets increase the rate of glycation. Blood sugars attach to proteins to form new molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs damage nearby proteins and can make collagen dry, brittle, and weak.
Smoking: Tobacco damages both collagen and elastin in the skin. Nicotine narrows the blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin. This compromises skin health by reducing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin.
Sunlight: Ultraviolet rays in sunlight speeds up collagen break down. Â Wear a sunblock. The UV rays in sunlight damage the collagen in the dermis, forming wrinkles.
Autoimmune disorders: Some autoimmune disorders cause antibodies to target collagen.
The aging process causes collagen levels to deplete naturally over time. There is no way to prevent this. Â However avoiding tobacco and excess sun exposure and following a healthful dietary and exercise regime can help reduce visible aging and protect collagen. This also keeps the skin, bones, muscles, and joints healthy for longer.