What is collagen?
Collagen is a vital protein that serves as a building block for the skin, hair, nails and connective tissues. It is responsible for keeping the skin supple, firm and hydrated. Collagen occurs naturally in the body, but over time there is less of it, which leads to visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles, sagging skin and dryness. This protein is an inseparable part of a youthful, healthy look and is widely used in cosmetic products for skin and hair for its rejuvenating qualities.
The origin of collagen
Traditionally, collagen was obtained from animal sources such as bovine, marine or poultry collagen. These kinds are rich in amino acids and have been used for centuries to support the health of skin and joints. With modern times and the arrival of a more ethical and kinder approach, however, alternatives to animal collagen derived from plants have also grown in popularity. These plant sources mirror the effects of animal collagen, offering hydration, suppleness and protection without the use of animal products. Natural plant collagen is increasingly used for the same purpose as ordinary collagen and is also suitable for vegans.
Types of collagen
Collagen comes in different types, each serving the body in a different way. In facial cosmetics, these types of collagen are used most often:
Type I collagen
Type I collagen, found in the skin, tendons and bones, is the most abundant and is essential for keeping the skin elastic and hydrated. It helps soften wrinkles and improves the overall structure of the skin.
Type III collagen
Type III collagen, which often appears alongside type I, supports the structure of the skin and is very important for improving elasticity. It is especially lovely for mature skin.
Plant collagen
A vegan alternative, plant collagen is derived from plant extracts and mirrors the effects of ordinary, animal collagen. It is highly valued for its ability to smooth, hydrate and protect the skin while keeping to ethical standards. Our Natural plant collagen offers exceptional benefits for both skin and hair, strengthening, hydrating and improving elasticity.
Why is collagen important in cosmetics?
As collagen production naturally declines with age, the skin loses firmness, hydration and resilience. Weaving collagen-based products into your routine can help restore these vital elements. Collagen has several key benefits:
- Collagen improves the suppleness and firmness of the skin.
- Collagen softens the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
- It increases hydration by binding moisture into the skin.
- It strengthens hair and nails.
- It supports cell renewal for a more youthful look.
Collagen in hair care
Collagen is not just for the skin – it also plays a key role in the health of the hair. By creating a protective film around the hair fibres, collagen strengthens the strands, helps prevent breakage and adds volume. Natural plant collagen nourishes the scalp, improves suppleness and enhances the overall vitality of the hair.
Collagen from PANAKEIA
Natural plant collagen
Natural plant collagen is a versatile active ingredient, also suitable for vegans, which soothes the skin, restores suppleness and strengthens its natural defences. This collagen is suitable for both skin and hair; it hydrates deeply, smooths wrinkles and protects against environmental stressors. It creates a protective film on the hair fibres, giving them strength and volume, while improving the suppleness and resilience of the skin.
KLEOPATRA toner with hydrolysed collagen
KLEOPATRA toner with hydrolysed collagen is a luxurious blend of hydrolysed collagen, prickly pear hydroextract and multi-molecular hyaluronic acid. This toner softens puffiness, calms irritation and supports the collagen fibres in the skin. It tones, refreshes and hydrates effectively, leaving the skin radiant and revitalised. The antioxidant qualities of its natural ingredients provide another layer of protection against free radicals.
Frequently asked questions about collagen
What is the difference between animal and plant collagen?
Animal collagen comes from sources such as bovine or marine tissues and contains peptides that directly complement the collagen in the skin. Plant collagen, on the other hand, is obtained from plant sources and mirrors the effects of animal collagen. Plant collagen does not contain the same peptides, but it too hydrates, smooths and supports the skin's natural defences.
At what age should you start using collagen?
Collagen production begins to decline around the age of 25–30, so weaving collagen products into your routine at that age or just after 30 is ideal. Collagen products can benefit every age group, though, by hydrating and keeping skin and hair healthy.
Can collagen be used on sensitive skin?
Yes, collagen is generally safe for sensitive skin. Plant-based collagen in particular is gentle and non-irritating, which makes it a lovely choice for those with sensitive or troubled skin.
Does collagen help with acne scars?
Collagen supports cell renewal and improves the elasticity of the skin, which over time can help soften the look of acne scars.
Can I combine collagen with other skincare ingredients?
Of course. Collagen works well with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and peptides, which increase hydration, brighten the skin and support collagen formation.
Interesting facts about collagen
- Collagen makes up about 75% of your skin and is the most abundant protein in the human body.
- Thanks to its smaller peptide size, marine collagen is absorbed up to 1.5 times faster than other collagens of animal origin.
- Plant collagen is often paired with hyaluronic acid to enhance its hydrating qualities.
- Collagen production begins to decline as early as the age of 25, falling by roughly 1% each year.
- The name "collagen" comes from the Greek word "kolla", meaning glue, since it acts as the body's structural glue.
- Cleopatra is said to have bathed in milk to strengthen the collagen and suppleness of her skin – which is why our toner is called Kleopatra.