New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the main component that vitamin C interacts with to build collagen?

1. Amino acids

2. Fatty acids

3. Carbohydrates

4. Minerals

The correct answer is: Amino acids

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the synthesis of collagen by interacting primarily with amino acids. Collagen is a protein that is essential for maintaining the structure and elasticity of the skin. The process of collagen production begins when vitamin C assists in the hydroxylation of specific amino acids, particularly proline and lysine. This hydroxylation process is necessary for stabilizing the collagen structure, allowing it to form the triple helix configuration that is characteristic of collagen fibers. Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, including collagen. Without adequate vitamin C, the body cannot effectively convert proline and lysine into hydroxylated forms, leading to a weakened collagen structure and negatively impacting skin health. This interaction highlights the vital role vitamin C plays in promoting skin vitality, resilience, and overall appearance. In contrast, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and minerals do not play the same direct role in collagen synthesis, making them less relevant in the context of this question.