A protein (biological polymer consisting of amino acids) derived from plant sources that serves as a key structural component of skin. When collagen breaks down, skin cells (fibroblasts) replace broken collagen fibers with new ones. With age the skin's ability to replace damaged collagen diminishes and gaps and irregularities develop in the collagen mesh, leading to wrinkles. Increasing the skin’s supply of collagen helps prevent the formation of lines and wrinkles.