Collagen is a protein that is an essential component of cartilage, bone, muscle fibers and other connective tissue throughout the body. Collagen lends strength and toughness to tissue. Scars are made of collagen. Because collagen is an important component of skin, it has been used to treat burns, scars and to fill in lines and wrinkles. Many beauty creams advertise collagen as an ingredient for fighting the signs of aging.
Collagen Cream
Collagen face creams contain various amounts of collagen, along with moisturizers and fragrances. But creams only have the power to penetrate the very outermost layer of skin. The moisturizers in the creams can temporarily plump skin and provide a protective barrier to keep skin from drying out, but the collagen can't reach the level of the skin where new cells are generated. Collagen creams also can't fill in wrinkles or erase lines on your skin.
Collagen-Generating Creams
Some beauty creams contain ingredients that do promote the production of your skin's own collagen. Regular applications of alpha-hydroxy acids and retinoids trigger your skin to produce new collagen of its own, resulting in a new skin and a fresher appearance. These creams can smooth out discoloration, brighten skin and diminish fine lines. Since they are creams, they don't penetrate the skin very deeply and they can't resolve deep wrinkles or scars.
Collagen Injections
A doctor can inject collagen into fine lines and wrinkles to fill in the hollows, smoothing your appearance. The collagen lasts for several weeks to several months before it's reabsorbed by your body. To maintain your appearance, you'll need to repeat the injections. Depending where on your body you have the injections, they can be painful and may require local anesthesia.
Precautions
The collagen used in creams and injections is made from cow, pig skin or tendons. Some people have an allergic reaction, so your doctor will probably require a skin test before he administers collagen injections. If you use a collagen cream and experience a rash, discontinue using the cream and contact your doctor.
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