Argan Oil, Collagen & Healing Scars
Collagen makes up around 74% of your skin.
Collagen is what makes skin firm, keeps wrinkles and sagging at bay so you stay looking youthful. But over time Collagen production drops.
Commercial products use compounds like Retinoids to try to increase collagen. However, prolonged use of retinoids can decrease the ceramide levels in the skin which are essential for making collagen![33] Long term use can also thin the stratum corneum layer which holds in moisture leading to dry skin.
Fortunately, there are many effective, natural solutions to support collagen production.
Support Your Skin Collagen with Creams, Oils & Diet
What Causes a Depletion of Collagen
As collagen levels drop skin sags, lines and wrinkles start forming and skin hydration levels drop.
The main causes of loss of collagen are:
- The ageing process
- External factors such as sunlight
- Hormone level changes
- Smoking
- Poor diet
Free Radicals, the Ageing Process and Collagen Loss
Free radicals are highly reactive molecules produced in the body.
They damage collagen proteins causing a break in the strand and the chemical structure of the collagen. Once a bundle of collagen has multiple points of damage it becomes disorganised. The results show in our skin in those familiar signs of ageing, sag and wrinkles.
Degradation of collagen in the skin is also caused by external factors that cause stress in the cells.
For women, an important cause of collagen loss at menopause is lower oestrogen levels.
This is because oestrogen is a powerful natural antioxidant that protects the loss of collagen due to cell damage.
Skin Ageing Due to Loss of Collagen in Menopause ►︎
Collagen and Skin Hydration
Skin hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and youthful-looking skin.
Studies showed that drinking a collagen-based supplement “improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density”.
Lipids in outer layers are the building blocks of skin cells and play a vital role in hydration. They are synthesised from fats in the diet in particular Oleic fatty acids.
Argan Oil research led to a significant improvements in hydration. Scientists discovered that a diet rich in oils rich and linoleic acid and external application of nutrient-rich oils had a positive impact on skin dryness cellular health. This Argan Oil study discovered a decrease in trans-epidermal water loss and a significant increase in water content of the epidermis [0]
Another study discovered that a food supplement containing lipids and ceramides derived from wheat restored hydration in patients suffering from dry itchy skin [50]
This research lead to the production of a product for dry skin which is called Lipowheat. This is said to be of benefit in cases of very dry skin conditions such as Eczema.
Lipid replacement therapy research concluded that: “Membrane lipids are essential to cellular membrane function and cells. Their restoration by exogenous membrane lipids is a useful approach for maintaining and restoring cellular membrane function.” [42]
Natural Oils that Support Skin Collagen Production
Argan Oil
Argan Oil is a complex blend of nutrients.
Essential fatty acids, Vitamin E, Ursolic Acid, Carotenoids, Polyphenols, Ferulic Acid, phytosterol and Squalene. All of which are active in maintaining healthy skin cell growth.[32]
Rose Hip Oil
Rosehip oil is a carrier oil, not an essential oil. This means you can add it to Argan Oil in high percentages 30% orm ore.
It is renowned for its collagen-boosting abilities, thanks to its rich content of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.
With regular use, this potent oil can stimulate collagen production, promoting skin elasticity and firmness. Its high concentration of retinoids aids in cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Incorporate rosehip oil into your skincare routine for smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Calendula Oil
Calendula, ( Calendula officinalis or Marigold ), is recognized for its potential to support collagen production in the skin. Rich in flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids, calendula possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV radiation. By shielding collagen fibers from degradation, calendula aids in maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Additionally, its soothing properties can help reduce inflammation and promote the skin’s natural healing processes, further supporting collagen synthesis. Incorporating calendula extract or infused products into your skincare routine may help bolster collagen levels, leading to a more youthful and radiant complexion.
An early study at the University of Maryland discovered that calendula cream helps accelerate the healing of wounds.
It is thought that calendula increases wound healing and collagen by improving local circulation and granulation tissue formation.
Calendula extract is commonly used in skincare products for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. While it is not a carrier oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil, calendula extract can be infused into carrier oils or incorporated into skincare formulations to enhance their benefits for the skin.
Lavender Oil
Lavender is an ancient oil with many uses.
It has been used medicinally for its antibacterial, antifungal, sedative for aiding sleep and even antidepressant effects.
A Turkish study into its potential wound healing effects proved that it helped stimulate the synthesis of fibronectin, glycosaminoglycan and collagenase which are all connected with collagen production.
Topical Creams for Collagen Support
Calendula Cream
A University of Maryland Medical Center study suggests that calendula cream, made from marigold, may have properties that promote wound healing and skin health.
Calendula contains compounds like flavonoids and triterpenoids that are believed to reduce inflammation and aid tissue regeneration.
Comfrey Cream
Comfrey ( Symphytum Officinalis also known as Knitbone ) contains active substances allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and tannins.
A study in Brazil discovered that using Comfrey on the skin produced “a significant increase in the amount of collagen. [5]
Rosmarinic is an interesting nutrient for fighting skin ageing caused by UVA in sunlight.
Excessive exposure to UVA leads to dark spots, wrinkles and sagging skin. This is due to damage to collagen fibres.
Allantoin helps to clear dead skin cells and supports the synthesis of collagen [8].
Horsetail Cream
Many of the benefits of Horsetail cream for collagen are connected to its high silica content.
Silica is essential for restoring weak connective tissues such as collagen.
In addition, it is a part of the process that regulates skin hydration levels.
Correct skin moisture levels mean supple skin, a better complexion and no dryness.
Copper Peptide Creams
In the early 1970’s scientist, Loren Pickart discovered that a copper tripeptide was central to wound-healing and hair growth.
In fact, levels of copper(II)-peptide in human plasma are connected to slower wound healing and collagen production in older age.
Many new studies show that peptide complex can reverse gene expression to a more healthy state. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene_expression
This is why the synthetic GHK-Cu is used in many skin and hair restoring cosmetics as an anti-ageing ingredient.
Many studies have been carried out and the benefits of a GHK-cu cream seem to be well-proven.
Some studies even suggest using a copper peptide cream on the scalp may improve hair growth.
Aloe
Aloe is proven to help heal wounds by increasing collagen production. The University of Colorado-Denver discovered that when using aloe, production of collagen may increase 90% or more. [7]
Gotu Kola ( Centella asiatica )
Gotu Kola, like Argan Oil, is rich in Vitamin A, amino acids, fatty acids, phytochemicals and triterpenoid saponins. In traditional medicine extracts of Gotu Kola are used to calm inflammation, improve wound healing, heal scars, repair veins and strengthen skin. It also stabilises and balances connective tissue formation in skin problems such as Scleroderma. [12]
So it clearly has strong anti ageing potential for improving skin firmness and quality. Scientific studies also show that the Gotu Cola extracts are able to penetrate the skin to achieve these results. [13]
Echinacea
The chemical make-up of Echinacea extract was examined to test the reported effects on the skin. [21] Polyphenols were isolated from Echinacea and tested for reducing collagen degradation by slowing oxygen radical damage. The research found that topical use of Echinacea extract can help slow or prevent UV induced collagen damage. [22]
Basil
“Holy” basil leaf contains many compounds with benefits for skin health.
Eugenol, ursolic acid, rosemarinic acid, caryophyllene, oleanolic acid, carotenoids, vitamin C, calcium, iron, zinc, and chlorophyll are all well known for their benefits for skin and health.
Ursolic acid promotes skin healing and enhances elasticity, research indicates that it may have the potential for preventing and curing skin cancer.[51]
Vitmain Rich Creams and Oils
Vitamin C: Several clinical trials have discovered that topical vitamin C has these beneficial effects on aged and photo-damaged skin.
A placebo-controlled study performed in 25 volunteers showed that those who topically applied a topical formulation of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) experienced a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles in aged skin after a relatively short time period of 12 weeks. [9]
Vitamin E: is one of the most powerful antioxidants. [10] It is available topically in very high levels in Argan Oil. In addition, taking it as a supplement can slow skin ageing and ageing of the body in general.
Foods & Vitamins that Support Collagen
Collagen is essential for skin, bones, joints and many mind and body functions.
A healthy diet is important for your skin and collagen levels for two reasons.
This is because collagen is made by combining the amino acids found in the food you eat.
To slow down ageing the body also needs a good supply of anti-oxidants to fight the ageing effects of “free-radicals“.
The Role of Free Radical Oxidation in Collagen Loss
Anti-oxidants help prevent oxidation damage to your skin cells.
The oxidation process is central to the signs of ageing in your skin.
The most potent antioxidants are vitamin C and Vitamin-E.
Vitamin C is found in high levels in fruits and many other foods.
Good sources of Vitamin E include nuts and fish and but oils such as edible Argan Oil and to a lesser extent Olive Oil.
Glycine, Proline and Lysine
The three main amino acids for collagen synthesis are proline, lysine, and glycine.
The most simple of the Amino acids is Glycine.
Most proteins have low levels of glycine however collagen is the exception and contains about 35% glycine.
Another Proline is a type of imino acid ( not amino acid ). It is not only important for making collagen but also cartilage, gut lining, and joint health.
Lysine, (or l-lysine) amino acid is also important for the conversion of fatty acids into energy and supports the absorption of calcium.
L-lysine helps to maintain a healthy digestive system, reduce cholesterol levels.
Lysine is abundant in a protein-rich diet. About 16 grams per KG of body weight
Food Sources of Proline, lysine, and glycine
Bone broths & collagen powders are rich source.
Gelatins: Not exactly a food but dry powdered geltain is up to 19% Glycine.
Pork Skin: 16%
Cod: around 3% Glycine.
Chicken & Turkey Skin: 3%
Bacon: 2.5%
Lean Beef: 2.2%
One egg white contains around 1,721 milligrams 2.5%.
Some plant sources for Glycine include spinach, kale, cabbage, bananas, beans, nuts.
Zinc
Zinc supports strong Collagen Synthesis
It is required for activating proteins that are essential for collagen synthesis.
Good Zinc levels allow the body to effectively heal skin damage.
Zinc is abundant in many forms of food.
Good animal sources of Zinc include beef, lamb, pork, shellfish, milk and cheese.
Vegetable sources include chickpeas, lentils, beans nuts and seeds.
Vitamin C
Eating fresh fruits and juices has long been associated with health.
In terms of skin ageing Vitamin C ( like Vitamin E ) has a strong antioxidant effect.
Deep within the collagen cells, it interacts with the amino acids to support healthy collagen production.
Anti-ageing Foods and Vitamins ►︎
Buy Pure Argan Oil to Use for Skin Care
Pure Argan Oil 210 ml
Organic Argan Oil double filtered with almost no Argan nut smell. The best choice for skin care & hair.
- 100% Pure Oil
- Certified Organic
- In Stock
- Quality Guarantee
- Free USPS 5-7 Day Tracked Shipping to U.S.
Now $48.58
We sell 2 types of genuine, organic and pure cosmetic Argan Oil.
The first is our “Naturally Scented”. This is made from an extra-virgin cold-pressing and a single filtration process.
This grade of cosmetic Argan oil has a natural Argan nut scent and is recommended for blotchy, acne-prone or inflamed skin.
Our “Unscented” Argan Oil is the same extra-virgin oil which is filtered a second time. Unscented Cosmetic Argan Oil has less sediment, less water content and no smell.
It is the best choice for face, general skin care and hair treatments.
Buy both types of certified, organic Argan Oil for skin and hair from our on-line store.
You can also buy directly from some of web pages. Click on the “add to cart” buttons to purchase directly through Pay Pal checkout.
Prices include fast and Free Delivery Worldwide and all products are supported by our money-back guarantee.