What exactly is the purpose of collagen?

Collagen, essential support fibers for our bodies, structures and strengthens skin, joints, tendons, and bones. Yet, despite its vital presence in our bodies, it often remains misunderstood.

So, what is collagen used for and why does it occupy such a central place in beauty and wellness routines? In this article, Biocyte offers a clear and natural scientific approach to understanding the role of this key protein, how it works, its proven benefits and effective ways to stimulate collagen production such as supplementation with collagen food supplements .

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body: it represents approximately 30% of all the body's proteins. Composed mainly of amino acids (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline), it forms a network of insoluble fibers that provide structure, cohesion, and mechanical strength to tissues.

There are several types of collagen, the main ones being:

• Type I collagen , found in skin, tendons and bones
• Type II collagen , essential for cartilage and joints
• Type III collagen , found in muscles and vascular walls

Each form plays a specific role, but all contribute to the strength and regeneration of connective tissues.

In the skin , collagen acts as an internal framework: it supports elastin fibers and stimulates skin cells, including fibroblasts. For joints , it ensures the flexibility and strength of cartilage, thus preventing discomfort related to stiffness or friction. And in hair, nails, and blood vessels, it contributes to their structure, strength, and vitality.

In other words, collagen is the "biological cement" of our body, guaranteeing its youth and integrity.

With age and exposure to external aggressors, collagen production slows down. As a result, skin loses firmness, density, and radiance. Supplementation with hydrolyzed collagen , particularly via peptides, helps to:

• Stimulate the natural synthesis of collagen
• Improve skin firmness
• Visibly reduce wrinkles and fine lines
• Boost skin hydration

Numerous scientific studies confirm that regular ingestion of collagen peptides improves skin texture and elasticity within 4 to 8 weeks.

Collagen also supports joint and bone structure . By acting on cartilage, it promotes better mobility and limits mechanical wear. In athletes, it contributes to muscle recovery and the prevention of microtrauma.

Clinical studies show that hydrolyzed collagen treatments contribute to joint flexibility and the resistance of connective tissues.

In addition to its effects on the skin and joints, collagen contributes to hair strength by regenerating hair follicles, which are often weakened by nutritional deficiencies and oxidative stress. It also supports the health of the digestive and vascular systems thanks to its structural role in mucous membranes and blood vessel walls. This is why it is central to the nutricosmetic approach championed by Biocyte, which works on beauty and well-being from within.

Collagen is naturally produced by fibroblasts, cells found in the dermis. They assemble chains of amino acids to form procollagen, which then develops into mature collagen fibers. This synthesis depends on several essential cofactors:

• Vitamin C, essential for the formation of fibers
• Zinc and copper
• Amino acids such as glycine, proline and hydroxyproline

Certain factors accelerate collagen loss:

• Prolonged exposure to UV
• Tobacco, pollution, and oxidative stress
• A diet low in protein and antioxidants

Conversely, it is possible to stimulate its production through:

• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and protein
• High-quality collagen food supplements
• Regular intake of vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants

In summary, collagen production is highly dependent on the environment and lifestyle choices. Some factors can weaken it while others support it, highlighting the importance of adopting healthy daily habits to preserve tissue firmness and vitality.

Collagen comes in several forms:

At Biocyte, the formulations combine hydrolyzed collagen peptides with a low molecular weight (2000-5000 Da) for optimal absorption. These dietary supplements can be integrated into a beauty routine, working in synergy with collagen drinks for visible daily hydration and firmness.

Choosing a good supplement depends on several criteria, including its molecular weight, which guarantees high bioavailability, and its combination with synergistic nutrients (vitamin C, zinc, hyaluronic acid).

A 3-month course of treatment is recommended for lasting results on the skin, joints and overall vitality.

From the age of 25, collagen production decreases by approximately 1% per year. This decline accelerates with hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause. As a result, tissues become more fragile and less elastic.

When collagen levels drop, wrinkles deepen, skin loses its firmness, facial contours sag, and radiance diminishes. This loss of firmness is one of the first signs of skin aging , hence the importance of choosing the right collagen for your skin .

Adopting a balanced lifestyle, protecting your skin from the sun, consuming antioxidants, and taking collagen supplements helps preserve skin elasticity and density. Biocyte's nutricosmetic formulas, combining hydrolyzed collagen and vitamin C, help maintain the skin's beauty and youthfulness naturally.

• Proksch E. et al., Skin Pharmacology and Physiology , 2014 - Study on the efficacy of hydrolyzed collagen on skin elasticity
• Bello AE, Oesser S., Current Medical Research and Opinion , 2019 - Collagen peptides and joint health
• Asserin J. et al., Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology , 2015 - Bioavailability of hydrolyzed collagen peptides
• Shigemura Y. et al., Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry , 2009 - Absorption of hydrolyzed collagen peptides
• Biocyte Laboratory - Internal technical files and nutricosmetic innovations (2024)