Collagen is the most prevalent protein in the body, representing about 30% of its overall protein content. Its primary purpose is to serve as the fundamental component of the body's skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, organs, blood vessels, and intestinal lining.
Proteins are formed from three primary collagen-building amino acids: proline, glycine and hydroxyproline. These molecules associate to form protein fibrils via a triple helix structure, requiring further biochemical support from vitamin C, zinc, copper and manganese.
Amino acids play a crucial role in protein formation and one's overall well-being. Food companies commonly supplement their products with amino acids, while nutritional supplements contain them as well. An insufficiency of these acids can occur and have adverse impacts on healing wounds and tissue repair, as well as accelerate skin aging. To combat this, many anti-aging skin care products incorporate amino acids.
Amino acids, the protein's simplest form, exhibit variations in moisture retention depending upon origin and molecular structure. These hygroscopic molecules maintain natural moisture levels to benefit skin and hair. Low molecular weight amino acids provide restructuring benefits to strengthen hair shafts and amplify reflective shine. By infusing hair follicles with these enriching compounds, overall hair structure is enhanced and improved.
