What are collagens?

Collagen is the main structural protein in the bodies. It is made up of 30% of the body proteins. Collagen is found in the bones, skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments blood vessels, and the digestive organs and connective tissues.

To the skin, collagen makes up approximately 80 percent of the dry weight of the skin. Collagen together with elastin provides skin with elasticity and flexibility.

To the bone,95% of organic materials in the bone is collagen and collagen work together with a mineral hydroxyapatite forming the bone structure, flexibility and strength

To the muscles, including skeletal muscles and smooth muscles (in the bladder, uterus, gut etc), heart muscles) and blood vessel (such as veins, arteries and capillaries) smooth muscle walls, collagens provide the muscles with the strength, structure and flexibility.

To the joints, tendons and ligaments, collagens also provide structure support and strength and flexibility.

The body produces collagen on a regular basis, but it slows down with age. Women experience a dramatic reduction in collagen production after menopause.

Many factors can reduce collagen production including smoking, sun exposure, and an unhealthy diet. Without collagen this important building block, you may start to see wrinkles and sagging skin, joint cartilage weakens or even experience joint pain.

Research has reported that facial acupuncture can increase facial skin elasticity.