Collagen Day (Collagen no Hi)

What is Collagen Day?

January 26th is "Collagen Day" in Japan. On this date in 1960, Tomio Nishihara, a researcher at Nippon Hikaku Co. (now Nippi, Inc.), succeeded in solubilizing collagen using protein-digesting enzymes—something previously thought to be insoluble in water—and filed a patent for the discovery. The day was established by Nippi Collagen Cosmetics, Inc. to commemorate this discovery, and is registered with the Japan Anniversary Association.

What is collagen?

Collagen is a type of protein found in the bodies of animals, including humans. It is said to make up about one-third of all protein in the body and is distributed throughout tissues such as skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. It acts like a "glue" that holds cells together, making it an essential component for maintaining the body's structure.

The impact of solubilized collagen

Collagen used to be a difficult material to work with—it would only dissolve when heated. But the establishment of "solubilization technology," which led to the January 26th patent application, made it possible to apply collagen widely in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food while preserving its heat-sensitive properties. The abundance of collagen-based products in our lives today can be traced back to this discovery.

The power behind beauty and health

While collagen is strongly associated with "beautiful skin," its roles extend far beyond that. Beyond maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness, it also helps keep bones flexible and joints moving smoothly, supporting many tissues throughout the body. The amount of collagen in the body is said to decline with age.

Dietary intake and vitamin C

Collagen is abundant in foods like chicken wings, fish skin, and gelatin. To efficiently synthesize collagen in the body, it's recommended to consume iron and vitamin C alongside it. Vitamin C in particular is an indispensable "helper" in the collagen production process.

Facts and trivia about collagen

• It makes up about 70% of the dermis layer of the skin, supporting its plumpness and moisture
• When heated, it turns into "gelatin" and solidifies again when cooled
• It can come from animal sources (cow, pig) or marine sources (extracted from fish, known as "marine collagen")
• In cosmetics, it functions as an excellent moisturizer
• Recent years have seen growing research into "collagen peptides," which are more easily absorbed by the body

Tips for incorporating collagen wisely

There was a time when people said "eating collagen doesn't do anything," and research has continued into the peptides produced when ingested collagen is broken down. Much about their effects is still being studied, however, so the basics are a balanced diet with enough protein rather than relying on any single food.

Everyday care

Protecting collagen also requires care from the outside. UV rays are considered one of the major factors that damage collagen in the skin, so taking measures like applying sunscreen even in winter helps keep your skin firm. An approach that combines both internal (diet) and external (UV protection) care is ideal.

Ideas for enjoying Collagen Day

• Make a simmered chicken wing dish or a jiggly aspic-style jelly for dinner
• Pair a collagen drink with fruit rich in vitamin C
• Take a little extra time with your moisturizing skincare routine and check your skin's firmness
• Take a moment to learn about the importance of protein, a building block of the body

Shining from the inside out

Collagen Day is a day to give thanks to the unsung hero supporting our bodies, and to revisit our own self-care. Living each day with firm, vibrant skin can also boost confidence and a positive mindset. On January 26th, why not focus on a balanced diet and thorough care, and spend a day that makes both your mind and body feel uplifted?