Wellness dictionary

Little ABC for your spa-break questions ...

In their treatment discriptions, wellness hotels often use technical terms, which are hard to understand for potential guests. We have therefore collected and defined the most relevant terms in our small wellness ABC. A tip: Our wellness dictionary also supports word requests. You don't need to know the exact wording.

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Collagen

What is collagen and where does it occur?

Collagen is the most widespread protein in the human body. With a share of 60 percent, it is also the main component of our connective tissue - this includes tendons and ligaments, cartilage, teeth and the skin. The collagen fibres in our skin act like a support corset for the cells.

What does collagen have to do with the ageing process of the skin?

When we laugh or frown, the support fibres made of protein building blocks ensure that the skin returns to its original position after the muscle movement. In addition, the support fibres made of protein building blocks can store water: this makes our skin look firm and plump.

However, the skin ageing process starts in our mid-twenties, when the body reduces the production of collagen and the breakdown of elastic fibres increases. This also happens due to environmental influences such as the sun. Their UV and infrared radiation causes the collagen fibres to stick together and thus has serious effects on the elasticity of the skin. But stress, lack of sleep, excessive alcohol consumption or too little sleep also cause the skin to age more quickly. Women suffer from increased wrinkle formation, especially from the menopause onwards: The altered hormone balance makes the skin thinner and flabbier, and the contour of the face also changes.

How can the ageing process of the skin be prevented?

Once the elastic fibres have been damaged, there is currently no active ingredient to repair them. Sun protection in the form of creams with a very high sun protection factor plays an important role in prevention. But also alternating showers or creams containing caffeine stimulate the blood circulation of the skin, regular massages e.g. with grape seed oil or evening primrose oil keep the skin elastic.

How does a skin cream with collagen help against skin ageing?

Collagen is used as an active ingredient in many creams against skin ageing (anti-aging). To prevent skin ageing, a collagen cream can achieve visible results. However, as the firming effect only lasts for a few hours, a collagen cream must be used regularly. In addition, a collagen cream should contain a lot of lipids which form a protective acid mantle and ensure that the skin can store moisture.