Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Is Collagen?
3. The Absorption Dilemma
4. How to Support Your Body’s Collagen Production
5. Conclusion
6. FAQ

As we venture into the world of skincare and wellness, it’s not uncommon to encounter a whirlwind of trends promising youthful skin and vibrant hair. Among them, collagen has emerged as a front-runner, touted for its supposed benefits to skin elasticity and overall appearance. But amidst this clamoring, a pivotal question persists: Can you absorb collagen through the skin?

In this blog post, we will explore the science behind collagen, how it interacts with our body, and whether topical applications can truly deliver its benefits. Along the way, we’ll also reflect on the journey of BUBS Naturals, a brand committed not only to wellness but to honoring the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty by producing clean, functional supplements. By the end, you will have a deeper understanding of collagen, how it works, and practical steps to support your wellness journey.

Introduction

Did you know that approximately 30% of the protein in your body is collagen? This remarkable structural protein serves as a building block for our skin, hair, nails, bones, and tissues. As we age, collagen production diminishes, leading to the classic signs of aging: sagging skin, wrinkles, and brittle nails. It's no wonder that collagen has become a buzzword in skincare; in fact, people are increasingly turning to collagen-infused products, supposedly to rejuvenate their skin and hair.

Yet despite this enthusiasm, research tells a more nuanced story. Can collagen in its intact form actually penetrate the skin? In this post, we will dissect the concept and provide clear answers to this question.

We aim to equip you with valuable insights into how collagen functions, the reasons behind its decline in our bodies, and whether topical applications offer any real benefits. Also, we will highlight how incorporating BUBS Naturals products, like our Collagen Peptides, can support your overall wellness goals. Let’s dive in!

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is a fibrous protein that is essential for maintaining the structure and integrity of various tissues in our bodies. It accounts for about 30% of the body's total protein and is primarily found in the dermis—the skin's middle layer—alongside other vital proteins like elastin and hyaluronic acid. This combination contributes to the skin's elasticity, volume, and hydration.

There are at least 28 types of collagen, with Types I, II, and III being the most common. Type I collagen, accounting for about 90% of the collagen in our body, is predominantly found in the skin, bones, and tendons, while Type II is essential for cartilage and joint health.

As we age, our body's collagen production gradually declines, usually starting in our mid-20s, and this process is accelerated by factors such as UV exposure, smoking, poor nutrition, and stress. A lack of collagen can lead to visible signs of aging, impacting not just skin but overall health.

Signs of Decreased Collagen Levels

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Sagging or crepey skin
• Brittle hair and nails
• Joint pain or dysfunction

The Absorption Dilemma

A critical aspect of understanding collagen is recognizing that the form in which we consume or apply it matters immensely. Can collagen itself be absorbed through the skin?

Studies indicate that collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin's barrier effectively. When you apply topical collagen products, they remain on the skin's surface and provide a moisturizing effect rather than genuinely boosting collagen levels within the skin.

Instead, collagen must be broken down into smaller molecules, known as peptides, to be absorbed into the bloodstream. This process typically occurs through dietary means, wherein collagen-rich foods such as bone broth, fish, or supplements like BUBS Collagen Peptides can support the body’s natural collagen production.

How Does Topical Collagen Work?

While collagen cannot penetrate deeply, some topical products can create a barrier that helps to retain moisture in the skin. Additionally, many skincare formulations often include other beneficial ingredients that can stimulate the skin’s natural collagen production, such as:

• Amino Acids: These are the building blocks of proteins in the body, including collagen. Amino acids can boost collagen synthesis at the cellular level.
• Vitamin C: Known for its antioxidant properties, Vitamin C is essential for collagen production. It can help protect the skin against oxidative stress and support overall skin health.
• Retinoids: These compounds, derived from Vitamin A, promote collagen production and improve skin elasticity. They play a crucial role in cell turnover and can help diminish sun damage.
• Peptides: Smaller fragments of collagen that can penetrate the skin and signal the skin to produce more collagen.

We at BUBS Naturals focus on products with straightforward, effective ingredients that support an active lifestyle. Our MCT Oil Powder can be a fantastic addition to your diet to ensure you stay energized while your body naturally produces collagen.

How to Support Your Body’s Collagen Production

Given that the body's natural collagen production declines over time, there are several evidence-based strategies we can utilize to support healthy collagen levels:

1. A Balanced, Nutrient-Dense Diet

Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support collagen production is crucial. Here are key nutrients to focus on:

• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, berries, and green vegetables, vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis.
• Amino Acids: Incorporate protein sources such as fish, chicken, and legumes to provide the amino acids necessary for collagen production.
• Zinc and Copper: These are essential for collagen cross-linking and can be found in nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

• Stay Hydrated: Hydration plays a crucial role in skin health. Keeping well-hydrated can enhance skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of dryness.
• Protect Your Skin from UV Damage: Wear sunscreen daily and limit your exposure to harmful UV rays. UV exposure can significantly degrade collagen fibers in the skin, leading to premature aging.
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Sugar Intake: Smoking and high sugar consumption can accelerate collagen loss. Implementing good habits will not only help maintain collagen levels but overall health as well.
• Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively impact skin health and collagen levels. Incorporating mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can be beneficial.

3. Consider High-Quality Supplements

For those looking to enhance their collagen intake, supplements can offer a convenient option. Our Collagen Peptides are a great source of hydrolyzed collagen, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine—whether into smoothies, soups, or coffee.

Taking a daily supplement can complement a balanced diet and help ensure that your body has the building blocks it needs for collagen production.

Conclusion

In summary, the effectiveness of collagen in skincare remains a topic of debate. While we can't absorb collagen through our skin in its whole form, we can still support our body’s collagen production through a proper diet, lifestyle changes, and thoughtful supplementation.

By making informed choices, we can retain and even enhance our bodies' natural collagen levels, leading to more resilient skin, stronger nails, and healthy joints. At BUBS Naturals, we encourage you on your wellness journey, honoring the legacy of Glen “BUB” Doherty through our commitment to clean, effective supplements and giving back to veteran-focused charities as part of our 10% Rule.

FAQ

1. Can collagen supplements really improve skin health?

While there are promising studies regarding the effectiveness of collagen supplements in improving skin hydration and elasticity, the evidence is not definitive. It’s essential to combine supplements with a nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle for the best results.

2. How often should I take collagen supplements?

For optimal results, it’s generally recommended to take collagen supplements daily, adhering to the dosage instructions on the product label.

3. Are there any side effects to collagen supplements?

Collagen supplements are typically considered safe for most people; however, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have allergies or specific health concerns.

4. What food sources are high in collagen?

Bone broth, chicken skin, fish, and certain cuts of beef are excellent food sources that provide collagen. In addition, foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and copper can enhance the body’s ability to produce collagen.

5. Is BUBS Naturals committed to veteran support?

Absolutely! We pledge 10% of our profits to veteran-focused charities in honor of Glen “BUB” Doherty’s legacy, highlighting our commitment to giving back.

Dive deeper into our offerings and discover how BUBS Naturals can enhance your wellness journey! Stay adventurous. Stay well.