What is collagen?

Collagen is an essential natural protein that plays a crucial role in the structure and function of our body. Present in the skin, hair, nails, muscles, tendons, and bones, it ensures the elasticity, firmness, and strength of tissues. A good collagen dietary supplement is formulated with hydrolyzed marine collagen.

As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to visible signs of aging such as wrinkles and loss of skin firmness. Understanding what collagen is and how it works can help better appreciate its importance for beauty and well-being. 

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein we have, and it plays an incredibly important role. Collagen is present in our skin, hair, nails, intestines, joints, tendons, and even our bones. It is this protein that gives the skin its elasticity and firmness. 

Read also our article on the relationship between collagen and our bones.

"It also acts as a kind of "glue" that holds our cells together. So, if we want our skin to remain supple, our joints to function without pain, and our intestines to absorb properly, collagen will be essential!"

The structure of collagen is characterized by a specific amino acid sequence, rich in glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. Its distinctive shape is in the form of a triple helix, also called a triple alpha helix, where three polypeptide chains intertwine tightly. This triple helix pattern gives collagen its stability and strength, essential for the strength of connective tissues.

Some definitions

What is marine collagen?

Marine collagen, primarily extracted from fish skin, is recognized for its high bioavailability, ensuring optimal absorption by the body. 

At D-LAB, we prioritize this source for its superior quality and ethical nature, by valuing the co-products from the fishing industry. This collagen stands out for its exceptional anti-aging properties, improving skin elasticity while contributing to a radiant and even complexion. Discover our hydrolyzed marine collagen treatment.

What is hydrolyzed collagen?

In its native state, collagen has a molecular weight that is too high to be absorbed by the body. Its long protein chains, often measured in hundreds of thousands of Daltons (Da), cannot cross the intestinal barrier.

Thanks to an enzymatic decomposition process, collagen is hydrolyzed into small peptides, reducing its molecular weight to between 2000 and 6000 Daltons. This range is ideal for ensuring optimal assimilation. The closer we get to 2000 Da, the better the absorption and, consequently, the effectiveness.

With this adapted molecular size, hydrolyzed collagen:

• Stimulates the natural production of collagen and elastin, essential for the firmness and elasticity of the skin.
• Supports joints, hair, and nails, acting from within.
• Is quickly bioavailable, allowing for visible results on the skin and overall well-being.

At D-LAB, we select premium hydrolyzed collagens at 2000 Da, meeting this molecular weight requirement, particularly those derived from fish skin, for optimal absorption and scientifically proven benefits.

These specific amino acids are not only components of collagen: they also act as biological signals that stimulate the natural synthesis of collagen, thereby strengthening the structure of the skin, hair, nails, and joints.

By consuming collagen peptides, we provide the body with the necessary elements to support its own regeneration process in a targeted and effective manner. They are thus easily absorbed by the body and are used to improve the health of the skin, hair, nails, and joints.

What is the best collagen?

The best collagen is the one that meets several quality and effectiveness criteria:

1. Prioritize marine collagen, ideally sourced from a sustainable and responsible source, which has high bioavailability.
2. Hydrolyzed with low molecular weight, between 2,000 and 6,000 daltons, for optimal absorption by the body.
3. Associated with vitamin C, an essential cofactor to stimulate the natural production of collagen.
4. Supported by clinical studies, ensuring proven and rapid results.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to have a very high dosage if the quality is there:

• 2 g/day is sufficient for visible effects on skin radiance, wrinkles, and elasticity.
• 4 g/day are recommended to support joints and joint comfort.
• Higher dosages may be considered for specific needs, such as recovery after an injury or athletic performance.

In summary, a quality marine collagen, properly formulated and well-dosed, is your best ally in preserving your beauty and well-being capital.

For more information, read our article on which collagen to choose, or on the differences between marine and bovine collagen.

What is powdered collagen?

Powdered collagen is a form of collagen supplement that can be easily mixed into drinks or foods. This form is convenient and allows for optimal absorption by the body. Discover our range of powdered collagen.

• Maintaining elasticity: Collagen is a structural protein that makes up a large part of the dermis, the deep layer of the skin. It ensures the firmness and elasticity of the skin by giving it its structure and supporting the collagen and elastin fibers.
• Hydration: Collagen helps retain water in the skin. Well-hydrated skin appears younger and more radiant.

Although collagen is not part of the hair structure like keratin, it plays a vital role in strengthening hair follicles. 

It improves hair resistance by promoting a healthy hair environment and protecting against damage, for stronger, thicker, and more resilient hair. Discover our best collagen for hair.

How does collagen contribute to the beauty of skin and hair?

Collagen improves the elasticity and firmness of the skin, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. For hair, it strengthens hair follicles, promoting stronger and thicker hair. To learn more, check out our article on the benefits of collagen for hair. 

Also discover why collagen for hair is so beneficial.

Read also: collagen and cellulite

Collagen also contributes to the flexibility of our body. It is present in our tendons and ligaments, allowing the joints to move smoothly.

Studies suggest that collagen supplementation may help reduce inflammation in the joints, which can relieve pain and discomfort associated with joint issues such as osteoarthritis. To learn more, check out our article on collagen and joints.

What is the importance of collagen for joint and bone health?

Collagen is essential for the health of joints and bones. It helps maintain the structure and strength of connective tissues, thereby reducing the risk of injuries and joint pain. Collagen supplementation can also help prevent cartilage degradation and improve bone density.

Read also collagen for muscles 

How does our body produce collagen and how does this production evolve with age?

From the age of 25, its production decreases and signs of aging appear:

• wrinkles and fine lines, skin laxity, loss of volume and elasticity.
• at the body level: joint problems, tendons, etc.
• poor assimilation and digestive problems

Starting at age 40, the body produces about 1% less collagen each year. This means that the body has less collagen to support the skin, joints, and connective tissues. 

At 50 years old, we would have exhausted half of our collagen capital. It is possible to limit this phenomenon by providing quality collagen to the body to help fill this loss.

When and how to take collagen 

It is possible to limit this phenomenon by providing quality collagen to the body to help make up for this loss.

It is essential to choose a hydrolyzed marine collagen, with a low molecular weight, vitamin C and if possible benefiting from a clinical study!

Just like the collagen selected by D-LAB!

At D-LAB, we have selected two exceptional marine collagens to meet the varied needs of our consumers, each with specific benefits.

Collactive™

• Origin : A French marine collagen, sourced from MSC certified wild fishing for an ethical and responsible approach.
• Composition : 94% type I collagen and 6% elastin fibers, faithfully reproducing the natural proportions of the skin.
• Molecular weight: Hydrolyzed to approximately 2,000 Da, it ensures optimal absorption and targeted action.
• Results : From 2 g/day, clinical studies demonstrate a visible reduction in wrinkle depth, an improvement in hydration, and firmer, tighter skin.

Naticol®

• Origin : A marine collagen, sourced from sustainable aquaculture, certified for its traceability and its Friend of Sea label.
• Features : A wide range, offering a more comprehensive action on the beauty of the skin, hair, and well-being, including joints and the microbiome.
• Molecular weight: Hydrolyzed to approximately 2,000 Da, it ensures optimal absorption and targeted action.
• Results : Recognized effectiveness in enhancing radiance and skin tone uniformity, while supporting other essential functions such as anti-aging and joint comfort.

Read also: Everything you need to know about Naticol marine collagen

• Advanced hydrolysis: Our collagens are carefully processed for maximum bioavailability, ensuring quick and lasting results.
• Synergy with vitamin C: Each formula is enriched to stimulate natural collagen production and maximize benefits.
• Sustainable engagement: Whether through wild fishing (Collactive™) or responsible farming (Naticol®), our products respect marine ecosystems.
• Clinically proven results: With just 2 g/day, you can see a visible transformation of your skin in 2 months and 5 g/day for well-being.

By offering these two marine collagens, D-LAB provides targeted and versatile solutions to preserve your beauty capital, strengthen your dermis, your hair, while supporting your joints and your daily well-being.

All our collagen-based formulas contain hydrolyzed marine collagen type I with a molecular weight of approximately 2000 Da. 

This low molecular weight improves its absorption, bioavailability, and ability to reach target tissues to enhance its beneficial effects on the skin, joints, and many other tissues in the body.

Our Pro-Collagen Souplesse contains another type of hydrolyzed marine collagen, but type I and II without elastin, still with a molecular weight of around 2000 Da.

What is the collagen hydrolyzate used in your formulas?

Our formulas use collagen hydrolysate that can be absorbed by the intestinal barrier.

These peptides and free amino acids, having a size smaller than 0.5 Kda, are found in the bloodstream after digestion and are known to be efficiently absorbed by the intestinal barrier (Iwai et al., 2005).

Why do you include vitamin C in your collagen formulas?

Vitamin C is associated with our products because it is essential for collagen synthesis processes. It acts as a necessary co-factor for the enzymes (prolyl and lysine hydroxylases) involved in collagen synthesis.

Thus, it contributes to maintaining the homeostasis of the skin. To learn more, check out our article on marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C.

At D-LAB NUTRICOSMETICS, we believe in the power of inner beauty to shine on the outside. 

Collagen is much more than just a protein; it is the secret to the youth and vitality of our skin, our hair and our overall well-being.

Investing in our collagen health from a young age is an act of love towards our bodies. By taking a proactive approach and integrating D-LAB NUTRICOSMETICS collagen supplementation into our daily routine, we can preserve our youthful capital and support our well-being at every stage of our lives.