Collagen peptides

Collagen peptides are protein molecules that are smaller than complete collagen. To understand what a peptide is, it is important to define peptides as linked chains of amino acids. Naturally present in the human body, collagen is a large fibrous protein that forms the basis of our support tissues such as bones, skin, tendons and cartilage. It is even found in the corneas of our eyes, our gums and our internal organs, as well as in our blood vessels. Collagen plays a key role in cell adhesion and in the general cohesion of the epidermis.

Collagen is an almost complete protein, made up of 19 essential amino acids. Collagen molecules are either composed mainly of glycine and proline, with smaller amounts of 17 amino acids, or of glycine, 17 amino acids and hydroxyproline. There are several types of collagen, which differ in structure, role and size. There are currently 29 known types, 12 of which are expressed in the skin. These different collagens perform different functions in the body. The most abundant in the human body are collagen types 1, 2, 3 and 4.

A major skin protein, collagen is found in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. Collagen accounts for 80 to 85% of the dry weight of the dermis.

The main collagens present in the dermis are types 1 and 3. These large fibres that run through the dermis are linked together and attached to the cells that make this collagen: the fibroblasts. Hyaluronic acid, collagen, elastin and proteoglycans form an assembly that forms the skin's support tissue, giving it firmness, resistance and volume.

As part of the natural ageing process, and accelerated by certain environmental factors (excess UV rays, a diet too rich in sugars, lack of sleep, smoking, etc.), collagen fibres break down under the effect of free radicals, becoming brittle and breakable, leaving the skin thinner, wrinkled and less dense.

Supplementation with marine collagen peptides can improve skin elasticity, reduce and prevent wrinkles and partially compensate for the reduction in collagen associated with skin ageing.

The supporting function of collagen helps to tone the face and maintain a well-defined oval. When supplemented, marine collagen provides suppleness, resistance and elasticity to the skin, helps maintain good skin hydration and improves cell regeneration and healing, which also has an effect on skin texture.

A course of collagen can improve skin health by reducing wrinkles and increasing hydration, and supports joints and bones by reducing pain and improving mobility. It also strengthens hair and nails, increases muscle mass and aids post-workout recovery, and improves intestinal health by strengthening the intestinal lining.

Collagen peptides, or collagen hydrolysates, are available in powder, capsule and sometimes a collagen-enriched drink form.

To find the right dose, always refer to the advice of the supplement manufacturer or your healthcare professional. Generally speaking, the recommended amount of collagen for a healthy adult is 5-10g of collagen peptides per day.

For the Aroma-Zone marine collagen powder food supplement, take 5g of collagen per day as a maintenance treatment. As an intensive treatment, we recommend a dose of 10g of marine collagen peptides a day.

To encourage collagen synthesis, it's best to supplement your collagen treatment with vitamin C, either in the form of a food supplement or by eating a diet rich in sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential cofactor in collagen production.

Vitamins B9 and B12 also promote the natural synthesis of collagen. They are found in large quantities in brewer's yeast, for example.

Diet and lifestyle play an important role in combating oxidative stress and free radicals. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants and low in sugars, as well as a healthy lifestyle - getting plenty of sleep, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and protecting yourself from UV rays with suncare products - all help to preserve natural collagen.