January 2012/NutraSolutions -- Collagen proteins support connective tissues, including skin, bone, tendons, muscles and cartilage, as well as internal organs. In addition to being one of the most plentiful proteins (about 30%), there are more than 25 types of collagen in the body. Collagen is especially important for the health and vitality of the skin, which is the largest organ of the body. But with aging comes reduced cell renewal. The skin becomes increasingly dry and loses collagen, resulting in roughness, wrinkles, loss of elasticity and irregular pigmentation1. The epidermis of a young person holds more moisture than older and thinner skin; thus, younger skin appears fresher and smoother.

Collagen has been used in topical cosmetic products, such as creams and lotions. However, topical products may not penetrate deeper skin layers, whereas internally ingested collagen protein may help tighten and smooth the skin and delay its natural aging process.

Because of its important role in healthy skin, collagen has been used in topical cosmetic products like creams and lotions. These products, however, may not penetrate deeper skin layers, treating only lines and the smaller wrinkles on the surface. A substantial effect on collagen metabolism appears to be possible with oral applications. GELITA has introduced Verisol®, a collagen protein which is used internally to tighten and smooth the skin and to delay its natural aging process. Verisol consists of optimized bioactive collagen peptides which stimulate the synthesis of collagen, proteoglycans and elastin. In addition, due to its barrier function, it decreases water loss and improves skin protection.
Verisol collagen is produced from protein extracted from raw material of animal origin. It is produced in accordance with food regulations and classified as a foodstuff. This innovative ingredient for “beauty from within” applications comprises pure collagen peptides, specifically developed to provide the highest possible efficacy in human skin. It is suitable for liquid and solid functional-food applications.
Frost and Sullivan have estimated the market for “nutricosmetics” at $2.1 billion with anticipated annual growth of 17.8 % to $5.62 billion by 2015.
Studies organized by GELITA have demonstrated that a diet containing collagen peptides can improve the structure and appearance of the skin. Because of their amino acid composition, collagen peptides have been reported to activate the synthesis of collagen and elastin in the body.
A GELITA-sponsored Brazilian study evaluated the efficacy of collagen peptides on skin firmness, elasticity and hydration in two groups of female volunteers aged 35-60. One group received 2g of collagen peptides, the other a placebo, in a beverage format. After 60 days, no change in skin firmness was observed. There was significant improvement in skin hydration within the treatment group compared to the placebo group.
A focus group study comprised of 500 women aged 25-65 was conducted by GELITA in Germany, Spain and the U.S. The purpose of the study was to assess the perception and acceptance of products which contain Verisol. In general, participants considered a “beauty from within” concept based on Verisol to be more effective than topical applications. And, more than 80% associated collagen with beauty, as related to connective tissue and elasticity. Consumers expressed a preference for internal beauty products in concentrated forms and that are neutral in taste and odor.
Through their ability to increase skin hydration, reduce the formation of fine lines and wrinkles—while improving skin irritation and regeneration—Verisol collagen peptides meet the pressures of an aging population that wishes to look good while growing older.  NS

References:
1. Castelo-Branco, C, et al. 1992. Skin collagen changes related to age and hormone replacement therapy. Maturitas. 15(2):113-119.

For more information:
GELITA USA • Sergeant Bluff, Iowa
Lara Niemann • 712-943-1692 • 712-212-3968
lara.niemann@gelita.com • www.gelita.com