Medicine today 

Amino acids: the main thing is to reach the goal. Amino acids for beauty. Important! the skin constantly uses amino acids for regeneration and nutrition

And minic acids for the skin are extremely useful, irreplaceable substances, the properties of which for our health are almost impossible to overestimate. We will talk in more detail about their healing effect in the corresponding section, but I would like to clarify right away: it is not limited to just getting rid of facial and age wrinkles, as women who are far from cosmetology mistakenly think. But since this topic is too broad (chemists know more than 130 types of amino acids), the traditional format of presentation will not be entirely appropriate. Therefore, it was decided to offer you an overview, summarizing material that will give a general idea of \u200b\u200bsuch valuable substances. At the same time, we tried to preserve our traditional sections describing the beneficial properties of the most important amino acids for the skin of the face, as well as options for their practical use in cosmetology. We hope you don’t mind this “simplification”.

Distinctive features

Amino acids are chemical organic compounds containing both amine and carboxyl groups, a free radical and the so-called alpha atom located in the center of the molecule. The physical and chemical properties of these compounds are very diverse, but some features are still common.

Main characteristics:

  • state of aggregation: crystalline substance;
  • solubility in water: good;
  • melting point: high.

The most important amino acids:

Name (international code)Main source of obtaining
Alanine (A, Ala)Silk fibrion
Arginine (A, Arg)Horns of large agricultural animals
Aspartic acid (D, Asp)Asparagus sprouts
Valine (V, Val)Casein
Hydroxylysine (hK, Hyl)Fish protein
Hydroxyproline (hP, Hyp)Gelatin
Histidine (H, His)Histones, sturin
Glycine (G, Gly)Gelatin
Glutamic acid (E, Glu)Vegetable proteins
Isoleucine (I, Ile)Fibrin
Leucine (L, Leu)Muscle fibers
Lysine (K, Lys)Casein
Methionine (M, Met)Casein
Proline (P, Pro)Casein
Serine (S, Ser)Silk
Tyrosine (Y, Tyr)Casein
Threonine (T, Thr)Oat protein
Tryptophan (W, Trp)Casein
Phenylalanine (F, Phe)Lupine sprouts
Cysteine \u200b\u200b(C, Cys)Horns of large agricultural animals


Use in cosmetology

Amino acids are widely used in the production of creams, lotions, toners and other products for the skin of the face, but their properties can manifest themselves in completely different ways and are not limited to the fight against the wrinkle network. We tried to highlight the most important of these irreplaceable substances and briefly describe those features that can be used in modern cosmetology.

Tyrosine

It is mainly used to enhance the tanning effect. A distinctive feature of tyrosine is that it is able to penetrate into the deepest layers of the skin.

Examples of using:

  • Ambre Solaire (Garnier, 200 ml / 600 rubles). A budget sunscreen with certain reservations. It does not shine with any special advantages, but it copes well with its immediate tasks of ensuring a safe tan.
  • A'pieu Flawless Cove BB Cream (Missha, 45 ml / 1350 rubles). Multifunctional cream originally from Korea, which has become extremely popular among domestic women. It is distinguished by its balanced composition, health safety and persistent cosmetic effect.

Methionine (Methionin, methionine)

  • decrease in overactive sebaceous glands;
  • giving cosmetic preparations the required texture.

Examples of using:

  • Flamma Skin Radiance Day Cream (Five Elements, 50 ml / 900 r.). The cream is designed to effectively moisturize and soften the skin of the face. In addition to the main amino acid, the preparation contains shea butter, glycerin, glycine and tocopherol acetate. An added bonus is some UV protection (SPF 8).
  • Meso Mask Anti-Wrinkle Lightening Mask (Filorga, 50 ml / 3000 rub.). A brightening mask for wrinkles and age spots with an innovative set of ingredients. Its medicinal properties, in addition to its main task, ensure the production of collagen and elastin, and also reduce skin irritation.

Aspartic acid

  • improving skin smoothness;
  • facial relief modeling;
  • goes well with dry skin types.

Examples of using:

  • Hydralight Water-based Matte Make-up (IsaDora, 35 ml / 950 rubles). A soft, water-based foundation with a very light texture. There are no potentially harmful ingredients in its composition, but there are effective moisturizers, antioxidants and regenerating ingredients.

  • Night Cream (Dr. Sea, 50 ml / 1050 rub.). A nourishing and moisturizing night cream that works well for all skin types. Its main highlight is the Dead Sea minerals, in addition to which there are many plant extracts and oils in the composition. The healing properties are very extensive: the cream stops inflammation, relieves irritation and effectively moisturizes the skin.

Glycine

Considering that this amino acid is the basis of collagen (about a third of the molecule volume), it is not difficult to predict its healing properties. Also, glycine has a pronounced calming effect and stimulates blood circulation.

Examples of using:

  • XeraCalm A.D. (Avene, 200 ml / 1500 r.). A powerful balm that restores the natural hydrolipid balance. Relieves irritation, relieves itching and relieves inflammation. Alcohol and fragrance free. The effectiveness in the fight against wrinkles is relatively low, but this drug has a slightly different focus.
  • Huile Fondante Demaquillante (Payot, 200 ml / 1700 RUR). A very interesting cleansing oil that turns into a delicate milk immediately after being applied to the skin. Effectively rinses off even very long-wearing mascara. Additional properties are very diverse: Huile Fondante Demaquillante moisturizes the skin, preventing premature aging.

Threonine

  • providing a physiologically natural balance of proteins;
  • stimulation of the production of elastin and collagen;
  • a prerequisite for fat metabolism.

Examples of using:

  • Hyaluronic Ultra Suboon Cream (Mizon, 45 ml / 680 rubles). A good cream with hyaluronic acid. In addition to threonine, it contains tree juices, vegetable oils, gum and adenosine. And given the fact that the cost of the drug is quite affordable, it has practically no real competitors in its segment.
  • Anti-aging anti-wrinkle cream (Korres, 50 ml / 2300 r.). Designed for dry skin. Its undoubted advantages include a significant decrease in the severity of age-related changes, a decrease in the harmful effect of free radicals on the body, as well as a certain regenerating effect.

Phenylalanine

In cosmetology, this substance is used when there is insufficient collagen production. Phenylalanine is also a wonderful stimulant of mental abilities, improves tone and mood. It is rarely used to treat depression and obesity.

Examples of using:

  • Sea buckthorn balm with lamination effect (Natura Siberica, 400 ml / 290 rubles). A wonderful remedy for hair, which has the most beneficial effect on their general condition. In addition to standard components, the composition contains argan oil, glycine, panthenol and wheat proteins.
  • Meso-mask Anti-wrinkle (Filogra, 50 ml / 3000 rub.). A powerful mask designed to fight wrinkles and lighten age spots. It contains 24 (!) Amino acids, 24 moisturizing ingredients and 13 vitamins. Treatment of delicate skin around the eyes is allowed.

Serine

  • an irreplaceable source of energy for skin cells;
  • strengthening local immunity;
  • effective facial hydration (in combination with other NMF ingredients).

Examples of using:

  • Seaweed Mattifying Day Cream (The Body Shop, 50 ml / 840 RUB). A very light day cream for oily to combination skin. Promotes moisture and prevents oily sheen. The composition contains glycerin, tocopherol acetate, sesame and soybean oils.
  • Probiotic Balancing Cream (Holy Land, 50 ml / 2350 RUR). A soothing and emollient cream containing a balanced probiotic complex. The healing properties are very diverse: facial skin regeneration, reduction of irritation, provision of additional nutrition and hydration.

Cysteine

  • moisturizing the skin;
  • reduction of overactive sebaceous glands;
  • early wound healing;
  • protection of the epidermis from the damaging effects of free radicals.

Examples of using:

  • M Signature Real Complete BB Cream (Missha, 45 ml / 1350 RUB). Multifunctional cream that retains all its healing properties for 12 hours. Suitable for all skin types, provides protection against UV radiation and prevents the appearance of oily shine on the face.
  • Longue Vie Mains Multi-action Vital Hand Care (Guinot, 75 ml / 2300 RUR). Rejuvenating hand cream, which contains 20 amino acids, 12 vitamins, 11 moisture catchers, 7 antioxidants and 6 components that actively counteract the appearance of wrinkles. Guinot is not the most affordable cosmetics brand, but the quality of its products is worth the money.

Beautician review

Amino acids are considered almost a panacea for all diseases, but this opinion is only partly true. These substances wonderfully cope with the network of expression and age wrinkles, effectively moisturize the skin of the face, slow down the processes of natural aging and perform many other tasks. But if the manufacturer "saved" on the manufacturing technology of this or that cosmetic product, the consequences can be the most sad. Therefore, I strongly advise against purchasing medicinal or decorative cosmetics in questionable stores. Only by buying the product from reputable and reputable retail outlets will the healing properties of amino acids not be weighed down by side effects.

Amino acids are organic compounds on which the production of growth hormones, various antibodies and enzymes depends, as well as mood and general condition, strengthening and restoration of the body. Also, amino acids are needed to replenish protein deficiency, which leads to an imbalance in water balance.

Each of these compounds has a targeted effect on the work of internal organs and the brain, and also participates in the process of strengthening the immune system, prevents hair loss, and improves skin condition. Under laboratory conditions, amino acids can be obtained by hydrolysis, and in the body, ribosome cells are responsible for the production of proteins from amino acids.

Classification and properties

There are a large number of amino acids in nature, but about 20 of them are the most studied.

Among these substances there are irreplaceable, partially replaceable and nonessential compounds that differ in the way they are produced. So in the first case, amino acids enter the body only with food, in the second, they are produced from other compounds by the body itself, and in the third, the body can synthesize them on its own.

Replaceable

  • Alanin - is a source of energy.
  • Aspartic acidrequired for the absorption of minerals.
  • Glycine useful for brain activity.
  • Glutamic acidwhich reduces cravings for sweets and alcohol.
  • Ornithine promotes the production of growth hormone.
  • Serine necessary in the process of cell renewal.
  • Taurine promotes fat absorption.
  • Cysteine is a very effective antioxidant.

Irreplaceable

  • Valine stimulates energy production.
  • Histidine - affects the functioning of the liver, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract and contributes to the formation of the musculoskeletal system.
  • Isoleucine provides muscle tissue with energy.
  • Leucine directly affects protein synthesis.
  • Lysine promotes increased protein synthesis in muscles and is involved in the process of blood formation.
  • Methionine improves fat metabolism.
  • Threonine promotes the synthesis of immunoglobulin.
  • Tryptophan stimulates growth and maintains nitrogen balance in the body.
  • Phenylalanine reduces pain and improves memory.

Partially replaceable

  • Tyrosine increases adrenaline levels, and promotes melanin production.
  • Cysteine also applies to partially replaceable compounds, it strengthens hair, nails, stimulates the cardiovascular system.

These amino acids are most often used in cases where there is a clear lack of essential amino acids.

What are we for

Amino acids are essential for people who:

  • does not follow a balanced diet;
  • leads an active lifestyle and is fond of sports;
  • is in the process of active growth;
  • experiences increased physical and mental stress;
  • is recovering from an illness or is being treated.

The use of organic compounds ensures the normal functioning of the body as a whole and accelerated recovery from illness or stress.

In sports

Amino acids are the muscle building material. When processed in the stomach, they actively contribute to enhanced protein synthesis. Supplements and preparations containing organic compounds are used by athletes to maintain muscle tone before and after training, as a source of additional energy.

In addition, the use of special drugs and certain foods that contain amino acids can help maintain normal mental and physical tone after exercise, burn excess fat and stimulate the brain.

In medicine

For therapeutic purposes, amino acids are prescribed to restore nitrogen metabolism and eliminate amino acid imbalance. To achieve a therapeutic effect, amino acids enter the body together with drugs, food additives (dietary supplements) and dietary meals.

Organic compounds are needed for the synthesis of low molecular weight compounds, choline, phospholipids, as well as for the exchange of B vitamins and folic acid.

Some of the amino acids also have a very specific therapeutic effect:

  • metonine is used to prevent atherosclerosis, cirrhosis and fatty liver disease;
  • glutamine is effective in the treatment of certain neuropsychiatric disorders;
  • glycine acts on the central nervous system;
  • cysteine \u200b\u200bis used in the treatment of eye diseases;
  • histidine is necessary for the treatment of stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers and hepatitis, as well as for cerebral trauma, hemorrhage and vegetative dystonia.

In cosmetology

Organic compounds combine with each other to form peptides and proteins that are widely used in cosmetology. Peptides are chains of about 10 amino acids linked together. If the number of combined organic compounds exceeds 1000, then this is already called a protein.

For cosmetic purposes, proteins such as keratin, collagen and elastin have long been used. Peptides are a newer development that represents a serious alternative to proteins by being able to penetrate much deeper into the skin and act more effectively. Their molecules are much smaller, which allows them to better pass through the stratum corneum and reach the layer of fat cells.

Weight loss

Amino acids help burn fat and build muscle. If you use the appropriate drugs and include certain types of foods in the diet, then excess weight will disappear. With the help of amino acids, you can block the production of hunger hormones, which are actively produced when a person goes on a diet.

Despite the benefits of organic compounds, you should not completely substitute supplements for a balanced diet to lose weight. The amount of amino acids in preparations should not exceed 25% of all substances entering the body.

Signs of a lack of amino acids

With a lack of amino acid compounds in the body, an imbalance of protein metabolism is formed, as a result of which the missing elements are "extracted" from connective tissue, muscles, blood and liver.

First of all, the released proteins are used to nourish the brain and ensure the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Expending its own amino acids and not getting nourishment, the body begins to weaken and deplete, which leads to:

  • drowsiness;
  • hair loss;
  • anemia;
  • loss of appetite;
  • deterioration of the skin;
  • growth retardation;
  • in childhood - to mental retardation.

With alcohol

Consuming alcohol together with amino acids is unacceptable. This is due to the fact that alcoholic beverages have a depressing effect on muscles, and amino acids only enhance this effect.

During exercise, a lot of fluid is already lost from the body, and alcohol significantly increases dehydration.

These two circumstances are the reason for the decline in energy reserves. In addition, a strong drink is absorbed by the body as fats, and alcoholic products in the form of fatty acids are first retained in the liver, and then spread along with the bloodstream.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, amino acids are necessary not only for the expectant mother, but also for the fetus. Benefits of consuming amino acids:

  • physiological processes are better regulated;
  • the work of the gastrointestinal tract is normalized;
  • the nervous system is stabilized;
  • the problems of the cardiovascular system are minimized;
  • the body's endurance increases;
  • provides maximum protection against free radicals.

Pregnant women, especially those with toxicosis in the early stages, will benefit from:

  • aspartic acid, which promotes the production of immunoglobulins and helps to cope with overwork;
  • lysine for better absorption of calcium, with the help of which bone tissue is formed in an unborn child;
  • tryptophan, which affects the production of serotonin in the brain;
  • glycine, which contributes to the saturation of cells with oxygen;
  • threonine to protect the fetus from disease;
  • leucine, which helps prevent toxicosis;
  • isoleucine, which maintains blood sugar levels;
  • serine, which strengthens the immune system, improves the condition of hair, nails and skin;
  • tyrosine is a good helper in the fight against stress and bad mood;
  • proline, which promotes collagen synthesis, strengthens the heart and ligaments.

For kids

The child's body desperately needs amino acids, thanks to which growth hormone is released, the immune system is strengthened and the brain is stimulated.

They must be taken additionally if:

  • while studying, the child experiences great mental and physical stress;
  • there is a need to build muscle mass;
  • it is necessary to reduce the body's fat reserves.

The dosage of drugs for children with amino acid content is prescribed by a specialist depending on the indications. The optimal daily intake of compounds necessary for a growing body is 53 grams of protein. The child should consistently receive this dosage from his food: milk porridge, sandwiches with cheese, soups, cutlets and vegetables.

Products

A large number of organic compounds are found in foods rich in protein. Amino acids can be obtained in sufficient quantities with a balanced diet.

With food, the body will receive:

  • isoleucine - milk, low-fat cottage cheese, cheese, eggs, beef, lamb, nuts, lentils, almonds, soy, rye;
  • histidine - chicken meat, red fish, buckwheat and rice porridge and cereals;
  • metonine - peanuts, walnuts, pistachios and grains;
  • phenylalanine - peas, beans, lentils, soy and fish, cottage cheese, milk;
  • threonine - meat, cereals and mushrooms, potatoes, beans;
  • valine - mushrooms, meat, legumes, grains
  • lysine - white meat, milk, cereals, egg yolk, legumes, wheat, amaranth;
  • tryptophan - turkey, rabbit, horse mackerel, bananas, pine nuts, peanuts.

Drugs

Organic compounds can be used only on the recommendation of professionals, which are trainers, cosmetologists, doctors (pediatricians, immunologists, nutritionists and others). Each person's body requires different amino acids, so it is necessary to choose the right supplements.

The schedule for taking drugs with amino acids largely depends on the goal:

  • in order to make up for the increased consumption of protein, it is better to use them between meals;
  • if you need to increase muscle mass, then the most correct would be to take them with food.

Amino acids are best absorbed when taken 20 minutes before meals. Taking the capsules 20 minutes after exercise can help minimize post-exercise catabolic processes.

You can consume amino acids before bed: slow protein or casein. During a night's rest, they will slowly break down, creating new material for muscle recovery.

BCAA complex

The active ingredients are valine, leucine, isoleucine.

Thanks to the BCAA-complex, fatigue in the muscles after training is relieved, and the deficiency of protein necessary for building muscles before and after training is replenished. The use of the complex promotes the formation of other amino acids necessary for the normal functioning of the body. Indications: increased physical activity during sports, in particular weightlifting, powerlifting and bodybuilding.

The average daily intake of the supplement is 8 grams. An increase or decrease in dosage depends on the individual characteristics of the organism, a specialist consultation is necessary.

Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components of the drug, pancreatic disease, diabetes, gastritis, ulcer, kidney disease.

L-Carnitine (as Carnitine, Carnitone, Levocarnitine, Elcar)

The active ingredient is levocartinin. Available in the form of tablets and solution.

The main action is aimed at metabolism in the body. The active substance promotes the movement of fatty acids through the cell membranes. Thanks to the drug, excess weight disappears, digestion is normalized and physical activity increases. The food supplement can be given to school-age children and newborns. The dosage of the drug in the form of tablets is calculated based on age and body weight.

Indications: carnitine deficiency, impaired metabolism of the heart muscle after a heart attack, with ischemia and angina pectoris, as well as in the form of a solution for intravenous administration, it is used for hypoperfusion that began as a result of cardiogenic shock.

For children from 0 to 2 years old, the daily dose is 150 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, from 2 to 6 years old - 100 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, for children from 6 to 12 years old - 75 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, for children over 12 years old and adults - 2-4 grams.

Side effects: allergic reactions and dyspeptic disorders.

Biotredin

The active ingredients are pyridoxine, threonine. Available in tablet form.

The drug is used to improve metabolism and energy supply to tissues. Indications: decreased mental performance and concentration of attention in children, alcohol abuse, sensory and ideational disorders, alcohol withdrawal syndrome in adults.

The dosage for children is 1 tablet 2-3 times a day, the course lasts 3-10 days. Adults with alcoholism are prescribed 1-3 tablets 2-3 times a day for 4-5 days. In case of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, it is recommended to take 1-4 tablets 3-4 times a day on the first day, on the second day and then 1-2 tablets 2-3 times a day for 21-28 days.

Side effects: dizziness, increased sweating, allergic reactions.

Contraindications: state of alcoholic intoxication, simultaneous use with drugs that depress the central nervous system, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Glycine

The active ingredient is glycine. Available in tablet form.

Indications: mental and physical exhaustion, manifestations of deviant behavior in children and adolescents, excessive excitability and emotionality, sleep disturbances, neuroses, depression and anxiety, disorders of the autonomic system, ischemic stroke, psychoemotional overstrain. Thanks to the drug, the metabolism is normalized, and the process of stimulating the protective inhibition of the central nervous system is started and the efficiency is increased. During pregnancy, it is taken under the supervision of a doctor.

You need to take the pills without swallowing whole, but dissolving, putting them under the tongue or cheek.

With emotional overstrain, low alertness and mental performance, glycine is taken 1-2 tablets 3 times a day. The course lasts from 2 to 4 weeks.

With high excitability and insomnia, it is used: for children under 3 years old, 0.5 tablets 2-3 times a day for 1-2 weeks, then 0.5 tablets 1 time a day for 7 days. The dosage for adults and children from 3 years old is 1 tablet 2-3 times a day, the course lasts 1-2 weeks.

With organic lesions of the central nervous system and PNS, as well as with a decrease in performance during remission with drug and alcohol dependence, the drug is used 1 tablet 2-3 times a day for 14-30 days.

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, children under 2 years of age, with low blood pressure.

Glutargin (L-Arginine)

The active ingredient is arginine glutamate. Available in the form of tablets, solution and concentrate.

It is a hypoammonaemic drug that starts the process of energy supply to the body. It has antioxidant and antihypoxic effects. Indications: acute and chronic hepatitis of various etiologies, poisoning with hepatotropic poisons, liver cirrhosis, leptospirosis, hepatic encephalopathy, prooma and coma, accompanied by hyperammonemia.

Adults are prescribed 1 tablet 3 times a day, the course of treatment lasts 2 weeks. According to clinical indications, a single dose of the drug can be increased to 3 tablets, and the course of treatment - up to 21 days.

In case of alcohol poisoning, 1.5 tablets are prescribed 4 times a day at intervals of 1-2.5 hours, in the next 2-3 days - 1 tablet 2 times a day.

For the prevention of alcohol intoxication, a dosage of 2.5 tablets is determined 60-120 minutes before drinking.

Side effects: nausea and discomfort in the epigastric region.

Contraindications: children under 18 years of age, pregnancy and lactation, hypersensitivity to the drug.

Klimalanin

The active ingredients are beta-alanine. Available in tablet form.

The drug inhibits the development of vegetative reactions during the period of hormonal climacteric changes, normalizes the body's work, helps to cope with migraines, excessive sweating, and hot flashes. Thanks to the drug, the antioxidant protection of tissues increases, mood and performance increase, attention is more focused.

Indications: natural menopause, postmenopausal syndrome, condition after gynecological operations, artificial menopause after taking specialized hormonal drugs.

The dosage is 1-2 tablets per day, according to clinical indications, it can be increased to 3 tablets per day. The course of treatment lasts 5-10 days.

Side effects: allergic reactions.

Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components, pregnancy, childhood.

Moriamin Forte

The active ingredients are isoleucine, leucine, lysine hydrochloride, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine, methionine, vitamins A, C, D, B vitamins, folic acid. Available in capsule form.

It is used as a general tonic drug. Also, its action is aimed at accelerating the regeneration of structural components of cells, normalizing metabolism, stimulating the body's immune defense. Indications: increased mental and physical stress, malnutrition, gastritis, enteritis, chronic kidney disease, male infertility.

The dosage for a child from 3 to 6 years old is 1 capsule per day, for children over 6 years old and for adults - 2 capsules per day, the duration of the course is no more than 3 months. The dosage in the 1st trimester of pregnancy is 1 capsule per day, in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters - 2 capsules per day.

Side effects: possible allergic reactions.

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, children under 3 years of age, hypervitaminosis.

Taufon (Taurine)

The active ingredient is taurine. Available in the form of drops.

The drug normalizes energy processes and metabolism of eye tissues. It is mainly used to stimulate regeneration processes in ophthalmology. Indications: corneal dystrophy, senile, traumatic, radiation and other types of cataracts, corneal trauma.

For the treatment of cataracts, Taufon is used as follows: 1-2 drops 2-4 times a day for 3 months. A second course is possible in a month. For injuries and degenerative diseases of the cornea, it is used in the same doses for 1 month. During pregnancy, it is taken as directed by a doctor.

Side effects: possible allergic reactions.

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to drug components.

Cystine

The active ingredient is cystine. Available in tablet and capsule form.

The drug is able to slow down the aging process in the body, is used as an antioxidant, and is effective in treating arthritis. Indications: bronchial asthma, anemia, Alzheimer's disease, respiratory system diseases, cystitis, alcoholism, protein deficiency, infectious diseases, it is also used to improve vision.

The dosage and duration of treatment is determined by the attending physician, depending on the diagnosis and the patient's condition.

Side effects: allergic reactions, discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract.

Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components, pregnancy, lactation, cystinuria.

What are amino acids?

Amino acids are the building blocks of all proteins. About 200 natural amino acids are known, but only 20 are part of proteins (they are called basic). The variety of combinations of these amino acids results in a variety of proteins.

In the human body, half of the essential amino acids are synthesized, the rest are irreplaceable, that is, they must be supplied with food. Essential amino acids include arginine, valine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, phenylalanine.

But do not underestimate the importance of one type of amino acid and exaggerate the importance of another: both nonessential and essential amino acids are equally needed by the body as a whole and the skin in particular.

Why does the skin need amino acids?


One of the most important functions of free (non-protein) amino acids of the skin is hydration. Amino acids are the most important component of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF), the molecules of which are “packed” into the cells of the stratum corneum of the epidermis, accounting for approximately 10% of their mass and 20 to 30% of the dry mass of the stratum corneum.

Natural moisturizing factor:

  • participates in the regulation of the level of skin moisture (about a third of the water available in the stratum corneum of the epidermis is associated with molecules of a natural moisturizing factor);
  • participates in maintaining skin firmness, elasticity;
  • supports the process of exfoliation of dead cells at a normal level due to the participation of NMF molecules in the work of hydrolytic enzymes;
  • stimulates the synthesis of ceramides of the lipid barrier of the skin;
  • improves the protective, barrier function of the skin.

The share of amino acids in the structure of the natural moisturizing factor is about 40%. In NMF, free amino acids appear as a product of the enzymatic breakdown of filaggrin protein in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The triggering factor for the breakdown of filaggrin is the loss of water in the stratum corneum, and the formation of free amino acids from filaggrin depends on the level of atmospheric humidity.

First of all, during the breakdown of filaggrin, arginine, glutamine (glutamic acid) and histidine are formed, at the next stage, arginine is converted into citrulline. Filaggrin degradation products play a significant role in:

  • regulation of skin moisture level;
  • maintaining the pH of the skin;
  • healing processes;
  • protection against UV radiation;
  • neutralizing free radicals;
  • the activity of certain enzymes of the skin (for example, serine proteinases);
  • maintaining the elasticity of keratin fibers.

These functions of amino acids allow us to consider them as potentially effective components of cosmetics.

In addition, amino acids in the skin are found in:

  • proteins of the dermis - collagen and elastin. The process of their synthesis is chemically complex, multi-stage, and for its implementation, amino acids must be delivered directly to the dermis - primarily with the blood stream, that is, obtained with food.

What are amino acids for in cosmetics?


Amino acids and other protein components of cosmetics (peptides, protein hydrolysates) are currently classified as biologically active substances that can affect the processes occurring in the skin. Cosmetics with protein components are especially recommended for dry and aging skin. Manufacturers usually claim such effects as moisturizing, regeneration and restoration, firmness and elasticity of the skin, smoothing of wrinkles.

But the study of the ability of amino acids to penetrate the skin in the composition of creams was carried out relatively recently.

It is known that amino acids are small in molecular size, but they are water-soluble substances. And we know that a lipid barrier functions in the epidermis, and it is waterproof. This means that amino acids, despite their small molecule size, are not able to penetrate the skin on their own.

How do you get them there? For this, several solutions have been proposed:

  • damage the lipid barrier, create voids in it (for this, special chemical components are used in the cream - enhancers. These include alcohols, surfactants, amides (including urea), glycerin, propylene glycol, etc. The disadvantage of this solution is an increase in transepidermal loss moisture and the appearance or increased dehydration of the skin when using such creams);
  • use "conductors" (liposomes and nanosomes);
  • include in the composition of the cream not water-soluble amino acids, but their lipophilic derivatives (for example, hydroxyproline palmitate, glycine octanoate, palmitoyl oligopeptides).

That is, a good amino acid cream will always be high-tech (and not the cheapest). When choosing, be sure to pay attention to the composition of the cream, try to avoid using a cream containing enhancers that damage the lipid barrier (or have in your arsenal a means of restoring the lipid barrier to prevent skin dehydration).

In our shop, you can pick up a quality cream:


To solve the problem of poor skin permeability for amino acids, salon methods that increase the permeability of the epidermis, as well as injection methods of substance delivery, can be used.

Salon methods for increasing the skin's permeability to amino acids include:

  • salon peels (their mechanism of action is similar to that of enhancers - peelings damage the lipid barrier, which allows the substance applied to the skin to penetrate into the deeper layers of the epidermis);
  • ultraphonophoresis (preparations are carried out into the epidermis using ultrasound);
  • galvanization (amino acids reach their destination due to electric current).

An injection method for delivering amino acids deep into the skin is mesotherapy, which is considered one of the most effective ways to renew and restore the skin, not only by delivering the necessary nutrients to the dermis, but also through controlled tissue injury.

Mesotherapy preparations containing amino acids are aimed at stimulating the production of collagen by fibroblasts. This method is called amino acid replacement therapy and is gaining popularity lately.

Instructions

The energy that the body extracts from glucose is enhanced by the energy produced by valine. Without this amino acid, you cannot build muscle. It restores damaged tissues in case of liver and gall bladder diseases. Prevents the development of neurological diseases. Reduces the threshold of pain sensitivity. Helps to tolerate heat and cold more easily.

Isoleucine also stimulates muscle development and is therefore an essential protein supplement for athletes. Such drugs also help burn excess stores of fat stores. In addition, isoleucine mitigates the negative effects of stress.

Leucine also promotes muscle growth. In general, valine, isoleucine and leucine are a kind of "trinity" that works together to stimulate the development and protect not only muscle cells, but also skin and bones. It protects the body from various infections. Leucine helps to normalize blood sugar levels. By the way, alcoholics and drug addicts suffer from it.

During the growth of a young organism, histidine is especially needed. With injuries, exacerbations of arthritis, stomach ulcers, after operations, long-term illnesses, it accelerates tissue healing. Since this amino acid helps to increase hemoglobin, it is prescribed for anemia. It is also useful for hypertension, allergies.

If fatigue quickly sets in, often, eyes turn red, hair falls out, so a lack of lysine may appear. This amino acid is useful in that it protects against colds viral infections, herpes, strengthens the heart, skin, teeth, bones. If you take lysine along with vitamins C, B3 and garlic, you can effectively reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol.

Sulfur is essential for healthy skin and nails. It is supplied to them by methionine - an amino acid that contains this chemical element. Methionine is a powerful antioxidant, the liver's first helper. It is useful for hepatitis, gallstones, as well as diabetes, allergies, multiple sclerosis, mastopathy, alcoholism.

Helps the liver and threonine, protecting it from obesity. It provides the strength of tooth enamel, skin elasticity. The most important thing is that threonine, together with other amino acids, strengthens the immune system.

For healthy sleep it is necessary that the body produces enough serotonin. The brain synthesizes it from tryptophan. This amino acid has a calming effect and reduces the pain threshold. It eases the condition of patients with tuberculosis, protects against the development of alcoholism.

The passage of impulses between brain cells is largely dependent on phenylalanine. Therefore, it is so important for active mental work, good memory. If it is enough, a person is cheerful and resilient. Phenylalanine is useful for depression, migraines, arthritis, decreased sexuality.

Nearly all of these amino acids are found in meat and fish. Dairy products contain valine, lysine, methionine, threonine, phenylalanine. Legumes and soybeans contain a lot of histidine, methionine, isoleucine, phenylalanine. And tryptophan is found in turkey meat, cottage cheese, yogurts, bananas, dates, pine nuts.


What you need to know when choosing a face cream?


First, we pay attention to what type of skin the cream is recommended for. Then we read the annotation. And here a lot of questions arise - what are the components in this box, do your skin need them?


Since ancient times, women have been interested in cosmetics, since at all times there was a desire to stay young and beautiful for a long time. And now this desire has not disappeared. One of the most common cosmetics is cream.


Cream is an English word, and means - "cream".



Water, fats and oils are the basis of ancient creams. But this basis is used in our time. With the addition of various drugs, vitamins, biologically useful substances, modern creams also have medicinal properties.


How to choose a face cream - types of creams
According to their action, cosmetic creams are divided into several groups. For example, nourishing creams, whitening, protective, massage, moisturizing (hydrating), cold creams (cooling) and others.


Before buying a cream, you need to decide what action is necessary for you.


Each type of cream requires a more detailed analysis of its action. Therefore, now we will focus only on the main components that make up the creams for most groups.


So, what are the main ingredients that make up the creams? What can you see in the annotation?


Vegetable and animal fats and oils. For example, coconut oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, sesame oil, and others.


Natural waxes. Beeswax. In creams, wax facilitates the formation of an emulsion, gives plasticity.


Lanolin.
Lanolin is obtained from the liquid after washing sheep's wool. Refined lanolin is used as a feedstock. Thanks to lanolin, the composition of creams and ointments is soft and elastic. Lanolin does not leave a greasy sheen on the skin and is well absorbed, as well as enhances blood circulation and improves skin metabolism. The skin becomes velvety and supple. Lanolin is an excellent humectant and is also used as an emulsifier. However, for those with sensitive skin, remember that lanolin can cause irritation or even a rash.


Spermaceti. Crystalline mass obtained from the bone oil of the vertebrae of the sperm whale. Spermaceti is used only when mixed with oils and fats.



Choose a face cream - natural or synthetic?


Natural products deteriorate quickly, so synthetic fats, oils and waxes based on natural substances are increasingly used. Using them, you can achieve consistency in the quality of cosmetic products. The stability of the properties of synthetic substances has noticeably replaced natural products.


Mineral oils... Paraffin oil and dense viscous petrolatum, mountain wax (ozokerite), pure paraffin. They cannot be easily absorbed into the skin, but are a good starting material for some types of creams.


Lecithin... Lipids are fat-soluble substances that do not dissolve in water, but in organic solvents. One of them is lecithin, used as an emulsifier. The correct dosage of emulsifiers in the manufacture of creams is one of the most important conditions for the quality of a cosmetic product. For example, if there are too many emulsifiers in creams, they are quickly absorbed and quite stable. But for dry skin, such creams cause a feeling of tightness after application. And with prolonged use of such creams, you can provoke the appearance of wrinkles, disrupt the water balance, even in normal skin. In case of an overdose of emulsifiers after applying them to the skin, a sticky feeling may also occur. But in modern cosmetics, emulsifiers of a new generation are used more and more often, which are free of these disadvantages.


Ceramides - lipids, which are found in moisturizers. They prevent moisture loss.


Colloids - glues, starches, cellulose. These are products of plant and animal origin. They are suitable for forming gels, increasing the viscosity of emulsions and solutions.


Elastin and collagen - components that are structural proteins of the skin. It is thanks to them that the skin acquires firmness and elasticity. The skin is 75% of its weight composed of these substances. With age, their mass decreases, elasticity is lost, and wrinkles form on the skin. Using creams containing these components, we will protect the skin from moisture evaporation. This is why subcutaneous collagen injections are sometimes recommended.


Kaolin Is a finely ground clay, a preparation often used in cosmetics. Clay mask tightens pores. All mud masks have in their composition one base - kaolin.



Amino acids. The main property due to which amino acids are used in cosmetics is the ability to retain moisture in the stratum corneum. Of these, for example, tyrosine is an amino acid found in some creams. Tyrosine enhances the production of melanin in the skin. Melanin is a dye that affects the color of our skin. The epidermis contains this type of cells - melanocytes, which produce melanin. It is melanin that protects the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. When you tan, the amount of pigment granules in the skin increases and its color becomes darker. Excessive exposure to the sun leads to burns, as the pigment granules cannot be quickly produced. Without melanin, our skin would literally look pale.


Hyaluronic acid - a substance that is also part of the connective tissue of our skin. It, as it were, forms a film on the surface of the skin, which protects against moisture evaporation.


Fruit acids (alpha hydroxides ANA - Alpha Hydroxy Acids and beta hydroxides - BHA). They cleanse the surface of the skin, accelerate the exfoliation of dead cells, stimulate the processes of cell renewal, or, in other words, take part in the fight against premature aging. Wrinkles are smoothed out, age spots are lightened. The concentration of ANA should not be higher than 4%, otherwise irritation may occur.


The beta hydroxide molecules are larger than the alpha hydroxide molecules, they do not penetrate deep into the skin, therefore they do not cause irritation. With the help of fruit acids, skin diseases such as acne, dandruff, eczema can be cured, as well as intense skin pigmentation and first wrinkles.


Glycerol - a moisturizer that extracts water from the air and maintains the skin's normal moisture level. Glycerin is a good solvent; it is miscible with water in all proportions.


Liposomes. Liposome creams. Liposomes are closed hollow microspheres that are remarkably similar in structure and properties to a cell of any organism. They carry biologically active substances by interacting with skin cells. Thus, liposomes, easily penetrating into the skin, help it to receive all the most necessary substances. The history of liposomes is not simple, but it began in the 60s of the last century. In Russian cosmetology, the first creams with liposomes were released in 1992. Now every self-respecting cosmetic company produces creams with liposomes.



Vitamins - antioxidants A, C, E. On the question - what are antioxidants, you need to move on to a slightly different topic. But now we will confine ourselves to the explanation that the vitamins contained in our body, as well as in creams, help to protect and restore damaged cells of the skin, nails and hair.


Vitamin A counteracts collagen breakdown, strengthens the skin.


Vitamin C improves collagen production and protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.


Vitamin E makes the skin smooth, soft, maintains a normal level of moisture, relieves inflammation.


In addition to the above vitamins, others are also used, vitamins of group B, F, K are especially common.


The annotation indicates the names of vitamins in a slightly different way:


A - retinol, retinoic acid, retinal, carotenoids.


B - niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenate, pyridoxine, thiamine, riboflavin, biotin, folic acid, cobalamin.


C - ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate.


E - tocopherol and its derivatives.


F - linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, linolenic acid.


Fragrant substances. Both natural and synthetic raw materials are used as fragrant substances not only in creams, but also in other cosmetic products.


Do you want your skin to be smooth and firm, free of wrinkles or blemishes, and a healthy glow on your cheeks? That is why, before buying a cream, you need to analyze the list of its components.


One of the main goals of cosmetics is to help the skin to create normal moisture and fat levels.