Debunking Collagen Myths: Target Tissues & How Collagen Works

Collagen plays an important role throughout the body. It is the most abundant protein in the body that is needed for the structure and density of the skin.  It provides a structural support for the skin and other connective tissues like your joints, ligaments and muscles. Collagen is responsible for the skin's strength and resilience as well as the smooth, plump appearance of young healthy skin. 

Yet, there are still misconceptions about what happens after collagen is consumed and how it actually supports collagen production. 

From the idea that it only supports one specific tissue or the belief that it only provides the raw materials, this does not tell the whole story. 

Myth 7: Collagen Only Has One Target Tissue, Depending on the Source

Collagen works where your body needs it most. If you're experiencing physical and visible signs of collagen decline, like joint discomfort and skin flaccidity, your body will decide what to prioritise first. With prolonged supplementation of higher quantities, you can provide your body with enough building blocks to work in all deficient regions. 

Why Collagen Can Support Different Tissues 

As mentioned above, collagen isn't limited to one specific area of the body. Where there is a need for collagen, the body can prioritise its available resources where needed.  This is why your results may differ from your friends results.  You both have different needs, maybe you feel it in your joints and your friend in their skin. 

The goal isn't to direct collagen to one particular tissue. The goal is to provide the body with the resources it needs, allowing it to determine where those resources are most needed. 

Myth 8: Collagen Supplementation Only Works by Providing Material for the Body

It's easy to think of collagen supplementation as simply supplying raw materials that your body needs for making more collagen. But, hydrolysed collagen has a dual mechanism of action. 

How does Dual Mechanism Work? 

Dual mechanism works in two ways, by providing the necessary building blocks for your body to produce and repair collagen fibres and the main mechanism which is by acting as a signalling molecule to stimulate activity in your collagen tissues.

What to Remember

Collagen support is not limited to one area of your body.  Your body decides where it needs it most, while consistent supplementation provides the building blocks needed to support areas where collagen levels are lower. 

And hydrolysed collagen does more than simply provide the building blocks.  It also acts as a signal to stimulate activity in the tissues responsible for collagen production.