Do creams and lotions containing collagen have the same effect as collagen injections?

No. Collagen-rich creams and lotions smooth the skin’s surface and slow the rate at which water escapes from the skin. This helps keep the skin supple and moisturized. Creams are not designed to penetrate the skin’s surface and therefore don’t replenish the collagen in the skin, but many people do use creams to keep the skin looking younger.

Am I a good candidate for collagen injections?

Ideal candidates for collagen injections are between the ages of 35 and 60. Those patients undergoing collagen treatment must also be in good health and still have fairly flexible skin. Anyone with deep lines or sagging skin is probably not a good candidate for collagen injections. Collagen injections are merely meant to diminish early signs of aging.

Who should avoid collagen injection treatment?

Collagen injections should not be performed on patients with severe allergies, patients at risk for anaphylactic shock, patients with any kind of skin condition, or women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. Also, collagen should not be used for breast augmentation or bone or muscle implantation.

How do I know if I’m at risk for an allergic reaction to collagen?

Before the actual collagen injection treatment takes place, doctors require a skin test in an attempt to weed out collagen candidates who may have negative physical reactions to the collagen treatment. A tiny amount of collagen is injected under the skin, and the patient must wait three weeks to be sure there’s no allergic reaction.