Treatment using Collagen mask - Natural Collagen skin care

Collagen is a fibrous-like material in the skin that helps give it strength. As we age, and especially as we expose ourselves to sun, collagen fibers become disorganized and decrease in number and strength. Because sun-damaged skin lacks the ability to reorganize and produce new collagen, wrinkles appear.

About two decades ago, a company in Northern California trademarked a form of collagen purified from cow skin to correct wrinkles. This Collagen is a thick white liquid that is implanted by dermatologists with a very fine needle directly into the wrinkles that need correction.

Even though it is purified from cow skin, in most instances human skin accepts this injection with few side effects. Smaller wrinkles around the mouth and cheeks are usually injected with a thinner version of Collagen, while deeper wrinkles are injected with a thicker version.

Usually, people elect to have Collagen injections to achieve fuller lips or to have frown lines and lines around the mouth reduced or eliminated. Collagen implanted by this method usually lasts anywhere from several months to a few years before being absorbed by the body.

Once this occurs, the skin returns to its prior condition. Repeat Collagen treatments are therefore necessary. Because Collagen is made from cows and not human skin, prior to treatment two test implants in the skin on the arm (separated by at least two weeks) are necessary to determine whether there is an allergic response to it.

Possible side effects of Collagen treatments include some Bruising and redness at the injected sites for several days. A rare complication is the formation of a large, red, swollen growth at the injection site.

For most of the past two decades, Collagen has been the only injectable collagen available to correct sun-induced wrinkling.

Autologen, or collagen derived from one's own skin, has recently become available. Other filling substances for deeper wrinkles, such as Dermalogen, are now also available and compete with Collagen. A dermatologist can help you decide the best treatment for your skin type.

• Alexandrite laser
• Alloderm
• Alphahydroxy acids
• Amniotic fluid
• Antioxidants
• Chemical peels
• Cellulite
• CO2 laser
• Color wheel
• Collagen