Collagen is a structural and fibrous protein occurring naturally within the body. It makes up at least 75 percent of your skin. Collagen feeds and supports skin, bones, teeth, blood vessels and such connective tissue as cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It supports the quick healing of wounds and keeping the skin soft and fresh in appearance. Hydrolyzed collagen protein (HCP) or collagen hydrolysate, is simply a modified form of collagen. Hydrolyzed collagen is also known as gelatin. Over the years, collagen and HCP are becoming more often used in a variety of ways in the fields of aesthetics and medicine.

As you age, collagen levels decrease and break down within the skin surface producing looser and less elastic skin. You can see wrinkles and experience the "flabby skin" syndrome. In the past, synthesized or natural collagen has built a reputation as an anti-aging skin improver. Included in creams and lotions, you apply it externally, in topical form, as a means of reducing wrinkles, plumping up thinning skin and providing you with a fresh, young look. It is highly recommended in this area of beautification.

Collagen supplements may improve the undesired appearance caused by collagen depletion with age. Recently, companies began offering ingestible collagen supplements that may be absorbed by the body. The collagen molecule historically has been considered too large to be absorbed but new advances have been noted in making collagen bioavailable. You can always also inject collagen. Lip injections puff up lips.

Europe has been using HCP for decades. They use collagen as both a dietary supplement and, in some cases, as an natural option for joint and bone health. Research in Germany and Czechoslovakia found some preliminary evidence to support the ability of daily intake of HCP to decrease joint stiffness. Another small scientific study showed HCP did suppress bone decomposition in women with osteoporosis. Other evidence suggests that HCP may help athletes recover faster from intense exercise training or sports injuries.

Overall, research seems to indicate HCP supports healthy bones and cartilage, and encourages strong tissue that can help prevent sprains or strains. On the one hand, HCP is a "poor" protein source. It is low in the sulfur containing amino acids. On the other hand, however, HCP is a densely rich source of the primary amino acids that make up the collagen protein. These include glycine, proline and lysine as well as the two unusual amino acids: hydroxyproline, and hydroxyl sine. Certain scientists believe, HCP, as a concentrated source, facilitates nourishment of tissues such as cartilage, bones, tendons, ligaments and skin - the body's collagen-containing tissues.

A further point in collagen's favor is its price. HCP is less expensive than many joint-support supplements. This makes it more accessible. This is good news for the various health agencies. They say more and more people are at risk of developing this osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Figures are continuing to climb. HCP can help reduce the risk and do so for people from all economic levels.

Although collagen primarily finds itself touted as a beauty aid, there are now studies showing HCP can be useful in promoting joint health, supporting cartilage and bones and helping athletes recover faster.