What is collagen? Skin cells – fibroblasts – capable of producing collagen. But it must be remembered that collagen fibers are subject to wear and tear and can be quickly destroyed by adverse factors. As we age, the ability of cells to repair damaged collagen decreases. Collagen is especially important for the face. This process leads to the formation of wrinkles, a change in the oval of the face and skin tone. This is clearly seen in the area of the eyes ("crow's feet") and lips ("purse-string wrinkles").
Skin tone – indicator of youth and beauty
Two important skin proteins are responsible for skin tone: collagen and elastin. They form the basis of the middle layer of the skin (dermis), providing strength, density and elasticity of the tissue.
It is known that human skin consists of three layers: epidermis, dermis and hypodermis.
The dermis plays the role of a scaffold that provides elasticity, strength and extensibility to the skin. It can be compared with an unusual mattress, both water and spring, where collagen and elastin fibers play the role of springs, the entire space between which is filled with an aqueous gel consisting of mucopolysaccharides (glycosaminoglycans). Collagen molecules really resemble springs: the protein threads in them are twisted like spirals. The elasticity of the skin determines the state of collagen, elastin, as well as the quality of GAGs (glycosaminoglycans).
In young skin, collagen fibers and glycosaminoglycan gel are constantly renewed. But with age, renewal is slower, and damaged fibers are not removed, but accumulate in the skin, giving it a tired, lethargic and dehydrated look.
Sex hormones play an important role in the formation of collagen. The male body breaks up with testosterone gradually, therefore, the skin of men remains in good shape for longer. In women, the situation is more complicated: a drop in estrogen levels is observed sharply with the onset of premenopause and menopause, which immediately affects the appearance and mood.
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