Let's start with a heavy fact: applying collagen has little point.

You used to see them everywhere: collagen creams promising to make your wrinkles disappear in an instant. RainPharma, other quality-focused brands, and we at Clothilde never blindly believe in this trend.

What is collagen anyway?

Collagen is an important protein. It provides the skin with firmness, elasticity, and smoothness. It's also present in bones, tendons, joints, and connective tissue.

From around our mid-twenties, natural collagen production declines. This causes fine lines, loss of elasticity, and suppleness to become more visible.

Why do collagen creams deliver less than promised?

• The molecules of pure collagen are simply too large to pass through the skin barrier. Your skin isn't designed to let just anything through. Large proteins like collagen can't, thankfully!

• Creams with collagen can hydrate and improve the skin's appearance (smoothness and suppleness), but they don't add collagen deep into the skin's layers. Stimulating your own collagen production is key to achieving younger-looking skin, and that's where creams fall short. You can, of course, support your skin with ingredients containing peptides and collagen-boosting substances that are small enough to penetrate deeper into the skin.

How does collagen work best?

Simple: by taking it. These days, you see more and more collagen supplements, including tablets, drinks, or shots. RainPharma chose collagen powder for a good reason: one sachet contains 10g of collagen, an exceptionally high dose that simply doesn't fit in a tablet (or you'd have to take 32 a day). Drinks, on the other hand, often contain sugars and preservatives, ingredients that RainPharma prefers to avoid.

DISCOVER THE COLLAGEN POWDER

But c Collagen alone isn't enough. For effective support, the right ingredients are crucial:

• Vitamin C : Necessary for collagen synthesis; without sufficient vitamin C, this process stalls.

• Sulphur-containing components : important for the quality and cross-links of collagen molecules.

• Minerals such as copper , zinc , manganese and also silicon help in the formation and stability of collagen.

• Hydration, antioxidants, protection against UV damage, a healthy diet and lifestyle contribute significantly to the optimal absorption of collagen.

Also important when taking supplements: long-term use and consistency are necessary to see visible results. Therefore, we always recommend a course of daily use for at least three months, followed by continued use as a support.

At Clothilde you will also find products that stimulate collagen production from the outside using ingredients such as peptides, retinol, vitamin C, certain serums, etc. For example, the Likami Facial Serum Firmness & Elasticity , which stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis, or the Odacité Renew Serum with Retinol and Hyaluron .

Practical tips: what can you do yourself?

1. Eat enough protein (fish, poultry, vegetable proteins). Your body needs amino acids to build collagen.

2. Make sure you get enough vitamin C in your diet: citrus fruits, red fruit, peppers or choose a supporting good Vitamin C supplement such as the Super C Boost from Rainharma.

3. Protect your skin from UV damage: the sun accelerates collagen breakdown. So apply that sunscreen!

4. Sleep, stress management, not smoking, and limited exposure to pollution are all factors that can accelerate collagen loss. Be aware of this.

5. Go for a collagen supplement or powder, choose a quality formula and use it consistently.
   
   

Conclusion

Yes, collagen is important for your skin, nails, hair, and joints. But no, you can't just achieve the same effect with a collagen cream. The molecules are too large, and the claims are often more impressive than reality. Want to make a real difference? Look into supplements, good cofactors, protect and support your skin from the outside, and nourish your body from the inside.

DISCOVER THE COLLAGEN POWDER

Would you like some personalized advice on how to create your ideal skincare routine? Feel free to chat with us or visit our store in Aalst.