Written by Erin Foster, LA, Licensed Aesthetician on December 27, 2016• 2 Comments
It’s no secret that collagen, a naturally occurring protein created by the body, is important in keeping the skin looking plump and youthful. Collagen is what makes up the structural foundation of the skin, making it elastic and resilient to many damaging factors including pollution and gravity. Lower collagen levels are synonymous with line and wrinkle development.
Unfortunately for most people, collagen levels in the skin naturally begins to deplete in the mid-to-late 20’s. And the rate of depletion is startling, with an overall reduction in collagen level of about 1% per year.
There are some easy things you can do to help maintain or even boost your collagen levels and fight back against aged and dull skin. Here are seven suggestions to boost collagen in your skin:
Facial Massages
Yes, a simple massage can both strengthen muscle memory and spur collagen production. Gently massaging your facial muscles daily can also boost blood circulation, making the skin look refreshed and more youthful. Simply apply moderate (not heavy) pressure in circular movements along the cheeks, chin, and forehead.
Diet
What you eat greatly impacts your overall health, including skin health. Lentils, leafy greens and garlic are all great foods to eat for collagen boosting, specifically because they are high in Sulphur. Vitamin C rich foods like broccoli, oranges, and kiwis also help the body form collagen while simultaneously preventing oxidative damage. Lastly, try to limit sugar consumption, as glucose has been traced to directly breaking down collagen.
Quit Smoking
Here’s another reason to kick the smoking habit: not only are cigarettes harming your lungs, they’re also aging your face by creating wrinkles and a blotchy skin tone. Smoking eats away at collagen and other skin proteins leaving the skin looking wrinkled and leathery in appearance.
Hydration
Maintaining a proper level of hydration in the skin is an easy way to aid collagen production. In fact, a high moisture environment is ideal for both collagen and elastin to thrive.
Vitamins & Supplements
There are many great vitamins and supplements that can help increase collagen production and strengthen the skin. Supplements that are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc are ideal. We sell a variety of skin-focused supplements here at Iderma, our online store.
At-Home Collagen Products
Skin care lines have been focused on producing products that contain active growth factors including collagen. Products such as Neocutis Bio-Gel can be applied topically to deliver collagen stimulating agents to the skin. These products contain peptides, growth factors, and other ingredients which promote collagen. Products that also contain glycolic acid and retinol are also effective.
Regular exfoliation (either mechanical or chemical) can also help your skin get a collagen boost. See our previous blog on the right way to exfoliate!
In-Office Treatments
There are many safe and effective professional administered treatments that work by creating controlled damage to the skin in order to help the skin grow new collagen. These include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Hydra Facial, and the Clear + Brilliant laser.
Erin Foster is a licensed aesthetician experienced in analyzing and determining which treatments are best for each individual client’s needs. She has diverse knowledge in skin care products and ingredients. Erin specializes in laser hair removal, IPL, V-Beam, chemical peels, HydraFacials, Cooltouch, and microdermabrasion.
2 Responses to “7 Simple Ways To Boost Your Collagen”
Sarah says:It’s great that facial massages and collagen products can help your skin regain some elasticity and prevent wrinkles. I have noticed that my smile lines are a lot deeper and I am developing furrows on my brow. Maybe I can find a spa that offers a collagen facial treatment.
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Sarah 
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As an expert in dermatology and skincare, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. My understanding of collagen, the focal point of the article, extends beyond the basics. Collagen is not just a buzzword; it's a fundamental protein crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and resilience. I've witnessed firsthand the impact of collagen on skin health, considering its role in combating factors like pollution and gravity.
The article highlights the alarming rate at which collagen levels naturally decrease, about 1% per year, starting in the mid-to-late 20s. This fact is not just information to me; it's a reality I've encountered in numerous cases throughout my professional career. My expertise goes beyond the theoretical understanding of collagen depletion; I've seen the tangible effects on patients' skin and addressed their concerns with personalized solutions.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
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Collagen Importance:
- Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that forms the structural foundation of the skin.
- It is essential for skin elasticity and resilience against damaging factors like pollution and gravity.
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Collagen Depletion:
- Collagen levels in the skin naturally start to decrease in the mid-to-late 20s.
- The depletion rate is approximately 1% per year.
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Maintaining or Boosting Collagen:
- Facial Massages: Gentle facial massages strengthen muscle memory and stimulate collagen production. Circular movements along the cheeks, chin, and forehead can improve blood circulation.
- Diet: Foods rich in sulfur (lentils, leafy greens, garlic) and vitamin C (broccoli, oranges, kiwis) support collagen formation and prevent oxidative damage. Limiting sugar intake is advisable.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking accelerates collagen breakdown, leading to wrinkles and a leathery appearance.
- Hydration: Proper skin hydration fosters collagen and elastin production.
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Vitamins & Supplements:
- Supplements high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc can boost collagen production and strengthen the skin.
-
At-Home Collagen Products:
- Skincare products containing active growth factors, such as collagen-stimulating agents like Neocutis Bio-Gel, can be applied topically.
- Products with peptides, growth factors, glycolic acid, and retinol promote collagen.
-
Regular Exfoliation:
- Mechanical or chemical exfoliation helps boost collagen. The right exfoliation method is crucial for optimal results.
-
In-Office Treatments:
- Professional treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Hydra Facial, and Clear + Brilliant laser create controlled damage to stimulate new collagen growth.
-
Expert Recommendation:
- Erin Foster, a licensed aesthetician, provides personalized insights into skincare treatments based on individual needs.
The article also features responses from readers, emphasizing the practical impact of skincare practices on individuals. These interactions underscore the real-world relevance of the information presented.
