How is the skin structured?
The skin consists of 3 layers: epithelial tissue (epidermis), connective tissue (dermis) and adipose tissue (hypodermis). The dermis and hypodermis contain the skin’s adnexa (nails, hair), vessels and nerves. Fibroblasts are typical cells of connective tissue, producing collagen, glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronic acid, elastic and reticular fibres and glycoproteins. Skin condition is associated with various factors, including ageing, hormone balance, ultraviolet radiation, diet, sleep, exercise and seasonal variations. Fibroblasts progressively decrease their activity with age, leading to a reduction in the synthesis of elastic fibres, collagen fibres and glycosaminoglycans, resulting in a loss of skin structure. This leads to a continuous decrease in elasticity, firmness and hydration, loss of skin tone and progressive appearance of wrinkles.
Why is collagen supplementation important?
Collagen is an important component of the human body, making up 30% of the total body protein and 80% of the structural component of the skin. It is therefore essential for various aspects such as smooth and firm skin, mobilisation of joints and bones, healthy muscles, strong ligaments and tendons, shiny hair and healthy nails. Several studies have evaluated the efficacy of orally taken collagen in improving the appearance of skin and fragile nails. One study reported a significant improvement in skin firmness and elasticity and in wrinkle reduction after oral intake of 2.5 g collagen (Verisol®) daily for 4 weeks [1]. Another published study showed that daily supplementation with 2.5 g bioactive collagen peptides (Verisol®) for 24 weeks increased nail growth and reduced the frequency of broken nails [2]. Vitamin C plays an important role in skin health as it is linked to collagen production, skin hydration, wound healing, wrinkle reduction and improvement of inflammatory skin conditions [3]. Furthermore, several studies have demonstrated the synergy between vitamin C and collagen by increasing collagen deposits and preventing the self-inactivation of certain collagen enzymes that are crucial in the production of collagen [3]. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C is able to protect the skin from damaging free radicals, an activity also acknowledged to vitamin D. Indeed, vitamin D helps to maintain good hydration, and its anti-ageing and photoprotective effects on the skin are exerted through immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory actions, regulation of keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation programmes to build the epidermal barrier necessary to maintain skin homeostasis [4]. Thus, collagen supplementation, and vitamins, may be helpful in improving the appearance of the skin by making it more elastic, structured and firm.
PENELOPE® COLLAGENE gummies is the new dietary supplement from Deltha Pharma based on collagen (Verisol®), vitamin C, D, and biotin. Peptides from hydrolysed collagen, a patented mixture (Verisol®), are able to stimulate the skin’s metabolism, stimulating its production by the body, and counteract the loss of collagen from the extracellular matrix, thus improving skin elasticity, structure, and wrinkles. Vitamin C contributes to the normal formation of collagen for normal skin, bone and cartilage function and the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones. Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair, mucous membranes and skin, and normal energy metabolism. Each gummy is made of pectin in the form of a bolus, with no added sugar, gluten-free, naturally lactose-free and with natural citrus flavouring. The original and elegant jar is made of recycled plastic, for sustainable development and environmental friendliness!
Please find more information here
See also the other gummies lines -> Penelope® Hyaluronic acid & Penelope® Hair & Nails
Disclaimer: The information provided represents general indications, is not intended to constitute a diagnosis, and in no way replaces medical advice. You should rely on the advice of your treating physician and/or a specialised expert.
[1] Proksch E, Schunck M, Zague V, Segger D, Degwert J, Oesser S. Oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides reduces skin wrinkles and increases dermal matrix synthesis. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2014;27(3):113-9. doi: 10.1159/000355523.
[2] Hexsel D, Zague V, Schunck M, Siega C, Camozzato FO, Oesser S. Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017 Dec;16(4):520-526. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12393.
[3] Boyera N, Galey I, Bernard BA. Effect of vitamin C and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts. Int J Cosmet Sci. 1998 Jun;20(3):151-8. doi: 10.1046/j.1467-2494.1998.171747.x.
[4]Bocheva G, Slominski RM, Slominski AT. The Impact of Vitamin D on Skin Aging. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021;22:9097. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22169097