Collagen and sunlight: How to Protect and Restore Your Skin

Summer is a time of sun. Most of us enjoy sunbathing, and let’s be honest, tanned skin always looks “nicer.” However, sunbathing is not the healthiest process for the skin.

Skin damage from sunlight occurs due to prolonged or excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The sun emits different types of UV radiation, especially UVA and UVB rays, which can have a number of significant negative effects on the skin.

When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, several changes occur. One of the main reactions is the increased production of melanin, the pigment that determines skin color. This process leads to tanning, which is a natural defense mechanism of the body against further UV damage. However, with prolonged exposure, this protection fails, leading to skin damage (including sunburn).

UV radiation also penetrates deeper layers of the skin, destroying collagen and elastin fibers. Collagen and elastin are proteins that ensure the skin’s firmness, structure, and elasticity. Sunlight breaks down these fibers, resulting in a loss of elasticity, firmness, and fullness of the skin. The outcome is wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, and a rough texture.

Additionally, UV radiation promotes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the skin. These unstable molecules cause oxidative stress and damage cellular structures such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. This oxidative stress disrupts the normal functioning of skin cells, limits collagen production, and accelerates skin aging.

Sun damage also increases the risk of skin conditions such as actinic keratosis (rough, scaly patches on the skin), solar lentigines (dark spots or age spots), and can contribute to the development of skin cancer, including melanoma.

To protect the skin from sun damage, it is crucial to limit exposure to UV radiation. This includes using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, wearing protective clothing and accessories such as hats and sunglasses. Regular skin checks and early detection of any suspicious changes are also essential for maintaining skin health.

What role does marine collagen play here? Taking collagen as a supplement can have several potential benefits for sun-damaged skin:

1. Supporting Collagen Production: Collagen is a key component of the skin, ensuring its structure, firmness, and elasticity. UV radiation can break down collagen fibers, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. By supplementing with collagen, you provide the body with the amino acids and peptides needed for collagen synthesis, which can help restore lost collagen and reverse negative effects such as wrinkle formation. Bioactive hydrolyzed marine collagen, such as collalloc, is the best choice in this case, as it contains a high amount of collagen type found in skin structures.

    

2. Improving Skin Hydration: Sun damage can disrupt the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness and a dull appearance. Collagen can improve skin hydration by attracting and retaining water molecules, resulting in more hydrated and plumper skin.

    

3. Antioxidant Properties: Collagen contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals produced during sun exposure, reduce oxidative stress, and minimize cell damage.

    

4. Supporting Skin Healing: Sun damage can cause inflammation and tissue damage. Collagen supplements can support the natural healing process by providing the necessary building blocks for tissue repair and regeneration.