Collagen: Beauty Miracle or Ecological Disaster?

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The star ingredient of beauty routines, collagen is one of the most widely used substances in cosmetics due to its anti-aging properties. But behind this miracle of youth, a much less flattering reality emerges: the use of collagen has a disastrous impact on the environment. With demand for this ingredient rising sharply, what ecological consequences could it bring, and is there a way to produce “green” collagen?

If you are passionate about beauty while wanting to preserve the environment, this article is for you.

Where does collagen come from?

First and foremost, it is important to understand what collagen is and where it comes from. Collagen is a completely natural protein, found in large quantities in our own bodies! It is present in the tissues that make up the skin, around the bones, in ligaments, tendons, and even cartilage. There are up to 28 different types of collagen, of which three are used in cosmetics.

• Type I Collagen: Known for its anti-aging properties, it firms the skin, prevents the appearance of wrinkles, strengthens hair and nails, and is used by athletes to avoid injuries.
• Type II Collagen: Beneficial for cartilage, it is recommended in cases of rheumatism and osteoarthritis.
• Type III Collagen: Improves blood circulation and aids in muscle regeneration.

Beyond its anti-aging effects, collagen is also used to relieve certain muscle pains such as those related to osteoarthritis.

The word “collagen” comes from the Greek kólla, which means “glue” — rightly so, as it acts as a true binder, holding our skin and tissues firmly together.

Why is collagen a star cosmetic ingredient?

In addition to its anti-aging effects, collagen has numerous beneficial properties for the body. It helps retain water in tissues, providing flexibility and firmness to the skin. It also contributes to muscle comfort, making it a valuable ally for athletes. Furthermore, it strengthens fragile hair and brittle nails while promoting healing in case of injury.

The different types of collagen

• Marine Collagen: obtained from fish by-products that are repurposed. Rich in glycine, hydroxyproline, and proline, its main action is to firm the skin.
• Plant Collagen: the name is misleading, as plant collagen comes solely from animals. It is rich in amino acids, peptides, and vitamins C, B9, and B12. It helps the body produce more collagen.

To limit your ecological footprint, I recommend opting for marine collagen.

Its impact on the planet

Unfortunately, collagen and its beauty miracles come at a price: deforestation in Brazil and Paraguay.

This information was confirmed following a report published by Global Witness: cattle ranching in these regions accelerates large-scale deforestation. In three years, over 18,000 hectares have been devastated (more than the area of Paris), according to the site FashionNetwork, which adds that 3,000 tons of materials have been transported to a factory in France to meet the growing demand for collagen in cosmetics. The Gran Chaco, a vast forest larger than France, is, along with the Amazon rainforest, one of the first victims of this consumption (not to mention the impact of soy, also linked to deforestation).

Even worse, the farms intended to produce collagen are not subject to any obligation of transparency or traceability regarding their environmental impacts.

What can be done? First, it is possible to reduce collagen consumption by improving your diet and choosing eco-friendly products. Next, let’s be realistic: with a market worth over 4 billion dollars, genuine international regulation is necessary to protect forests and impose transparency policies and limits on deforestation.

Eating foods naturally rich in collagen

Collagen can also be found on our plates! Adjusting your diet by adding collagen-rich products could limit its use in cosmetics. Here are the main foods that promote collagen production in the body:

• Chicken
• Fish
• Eggs
• Vegetables rich in vitamin C

Additionally, you probably know that ‘radiant skin also comes from good hydration and a diverse diet’, rich in fibers and vegetables.

Shopping selection

Now that you know everything about collagen, here is a small selection of beauty products as a recommendation! Don’t forget to prioritize a healthy diet and foods naturally rich in collagen for enhanced effects, both from the inside out and through your skincare.

You can also opt for alternatives to collagen, such as vitamin C serums, which bring radiance to the skin without contributing to deforestation.

featured image: © unsplash