'Reduce wrinkles and promote skin's firmness & radiance' by combining two 'crucial' ingredients

Collagen is found naturally in the body but our stores naturally deplete as we age. Founder and CEO of proto-col James Greenwell discussed the benefits of this for our appearance and overall health.

He said: "Collagen is the body’s primary structural protein, playing a crucial role in providing structure to our skin, hair, and nails. It’s also found in connective tissues, bones, cartilage, muscles and blood vessels.

"This protein is essential for tissue repair, joint health and cell regeneration - essentially, everything that keeps our bodies firm, resilient and supple. In fact, collagen acts as the glue that holds us together.

"In the skin, up to 80 to 90 per cent of the protein present is collagen, predominantly type I, which can be derived from marine sources.

"When collagen is combined with hyaluronic acid, known for its hydrating properties, they work synergistically to promote skin elasticity, hydration and overall skin health. Our new Marine Beauty Collagen (£31.95) is enriched with 10,000mg of Europe’s most potent and bioavailable marine collagen peptide, 50mg of hyaluronic acid and a host of essential vitamins and minerals, to offer a powerful combination to support skin firmness, hydration and radiance.”

Studies have shown collagen can have impressive results in smoothing the skin. Research published in the National Library of Medicine stated: "Current research reveals that collagen use could result in a reduction of wrinkles, rejuvenation of skin, and reversal of skin ageing, which may improve skin hydration and elasticity."

Hyaluronic acid is also another popular ingredient in the anti-ageing space thanks to its hydrating properties.

It helps the skin hold onto water which ensures it looks plump, therefore making fine lines and wrinkles less obvious. James said combining these two ingredients will give great results.

He said: "Collagen and hyaluronic acid play vital roles in combating the signs of ageing. As we age, our natural collagen and hyaluronic acid production declines, leading to the formation of wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin.

"The incorporation of high-quality marine collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid can help combat these signs by promoting collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin texture and hydration."

Collagen appears in many topical creams, serums and other skin care products, as well as in supplements and drinks. So how should you have it? James discussed the differences between oral and topical collagen.

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He explained: "The benefits of applying collagen and hyaluronic acid topically versus taking them orally depend on individual preferences and desired outcomes.

"While oral supplements provide long-term, systemic benefits by nourishing the skin from within, topical applications offer more targeted and immediate results, though they only penetrate the skin superficially.

"Topical products can penetrate the skin's outer layers directly, delivering hydration and active ingredients to the skin's surface, while oral supplements work internally to support collagen production and overall skin health.

"The combination of both approaches can provide comprehensive skin care support, addressing internal and external factors that contribute to skin ageing."