Collagen is the key component that maintains skin firmness, smoothness, elasticity, and reduces wrinkles. How is collagen produced in the skin? What causes its loss? And how can we slow down collagen depletion?

The synthesis of collagen is a complex and orderly biological process, primarily divided into the following stages:

Gene Expression:
Collagen synthesis begins in the nucleus of skin fibroblasts. Here, specific collagen genes are transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA), initiating the production process. mRNA carries genetic information encoding collagen polypeptide chains.

Polypeptide Chain Synthesis:
mRNA transfers from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and binds with ribosomes. Ribosomes translate the genetic code into specific amino acid sequences, forming precursor polypeptide chains of collagen.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Modification:
Newly synthesized polypeptide chains are transported to the endoplasmic reticulum for critical modifications. Proline and lysine residues are hydroxylated by specific enzymes—a crucial step for stabilizing collagen's triple-helix structure. Some hydroxylysine residues also receive glycosyl groups to enhance functionality.

Triple-Helix Formation:
Modified polypeptide chains fold into a stable triple-helix structure, forming procollagen. This structure consists of three polypeptide chains intertwined in a specific pattern.

Procollagen Secretion:
Procollagen molecules are secreted extracellularly, a process requiring energy support involving vesicle transport and membrane fusion.

Tropocollagen Formation:
Outside the cell, proteases remove the non-helical N-terminal and C-terminal regions of procollagen molecules, forming tropocollagen.

Collagen Fiber Assembly:
Tropocollagen molecules self-assemble into collagen fibers through intermolecular interactions, forming a functional network structure.

Crosslinking & Maturation:
Collagen fiber stability and mechanical strength are enhanced by covalent crosslinks catalyzed by lysyl oxidase. This involves oxidation of lysine residues to form aldehydes, which react with other lysine or histidine residues to create stable crosslinks.

Dynamic Balance:

Collagen synthesis and degradation maintain dynamic equilibrium regulated by cytokines and enzymes. Old collagen fibers are enzymatically broken down while new ones are synthesized. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) play key roles in collagen remodeling.

Collagen synthesis is influenced by nutrition (especially vitamin C, a cofactor), hormones, and environmental factors (e.g., UV exposure). Natural collagen production declines with age, contributing to skin aging. Maintaining healthy habits and skincare routines is vital for preserving collagen levels.

Collagen loss in skin results from multiple internal and external factors:

Natural Aging:
Metabolic slowdown and reduced fibroblast activity decrease collagen synthesis while accelerating degradation. Collagen loss accelerates after age 25—by age 40, collagen levels may drop to half of those at 25.

UV Exposure:
UV radiation activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade collagen, causing photoaging. Studies show 80% of skin aging is UV-induced.

Unhealthy Habits:
Sleep Deprivation: Disrupts metabolism and hormones, accelerating collagen loss.
Smoking & Alcohol: Smoking generates free radicals; alcohol impairs nutrient absorption.
Poor Diet: High sugar/fat intake promotes glycation and collagen breakdown.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Reduces blood flow and collagen synthesis.

Pollution:
Airborne pollutants trigger oxidative stress and free radicals that damage collagen.

Oxidative Stress:
Free radicals attack collagen structures. Pollution, UV, and poor habits increase free radical production.

Hormonal Changes:
Estrogen decline (e.g., menopause) accelerates collagen loss in women.

Diseases & Medications:
Certain conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) or drugs (e.g., corticosteroids) impair collagen synthesis.

Genetic Factors:
Genetic predisposition influences collagen synthesis/degradation rates.

Chronic Stress:
Long-term stress disrupts hormone balance, inhibiting collagen production.

While collagen loss is inevitable, these strategies can slow the process:

External Care:
Sun Protection: Daily use of SPF 30+/PA+++ sunscreen, reapplied regularly, combined with physical protection (umbrellas, hats).
Skincare: Antioxidant-rich products (vitamin C/E) and anti-aging ingredients (retinol, peptides). Maintain hydration and gentle cleansing.

Internal Care:
Balanced Diet: Vitamin C-rich foods, quality proteins, antioxidants. Avoid excess sugar.
Sleep: 7-8 hours nightly for skin repair.
Exercise: Aerobic and strength training to boost circulation and collagen synthesis.

Professional Treatments:
Consider laser therapy, microneedling, or radiofrequency to stimulate collagen regeneration and improve skin texture.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes. Images are from the internet and will be removed upon request.

Foremed Legend

Foremed Legend's core team includes graduates from Peking University and other prestigious institutions. Compliant and innovation-driven, we specialize in R&D of high-end medical aesthetic devices, aiming to become a global leader in advanced photoelectric equipment and provider of diagnostic-treatment integrated solutions.

Through technological breakthroughs, Foremed Legend has independently developed:
- Picosecond laser systems
- Long-pulse lasers
- Intense pulsed light devices
- Photoacoustic imaging skin analyzers
- Cold air therapy systems

We continue to pioneer core technologies to deliver safer, more effective solutions for aesthetic needs.

Committed to ethical innovation, Foremed Legend collaborates with industry partners to advance global medical aesthetics through cutting-edge devices and intelligent healthcare ecosystems.