The Importance of Collagen

Collagen has come into popularity as a wrinkle-filling injection. However, people might not know that collagen is a naturally occurring substance that is already in the body as a connecting tissue. In fact, collagen provides for about a quarter of the body’s protein.

The protein collagen is a fibrous connector that is present as a glue-like substance in the skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and cartilage that make up the body. Because collagen is most often found in the extracellular matrix, or outside of the cells, it contributes to the firmness of tissue, along with its strength and form.

The Aging Process and Collagen

As the body ages, it gradually loses its ability to make as much collagen. Therefore, the skin loses its firmness and volume, leading to wrinkles. Additionally, facial expressions wear down the collagen support structure, which is why we get smile creases and worry lines. Sadly, it is almost impossible to completely reverse this process, but collagen injections can help the skin regain its smooth and wrinkle-free appearance.

Collagen Injections

Collagen injections work by increasing the amount of collagen in your skin, which helps rebuild the natural collagen support structure already under the skin. You can get either bovine collagen injections or bioengineered human collagen. Two types of bovine collagen shots are Zyderm and Zyplast, while the man-made human collagen goes by the name of CosmoDerm or CosmoPlast. Although the body usually accepts bovine collagen, it can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Contact Us

If you would like to enhance your skin with collagen injections, contact Austin facial plastic surgeon Dr. Apostolakis today at 512-329-8989.