Ways to Increase Collagen For Skin

Collagen plays a key role in keeping our skin looking firm, soft and smooth. However, as we age, our bodies produce less, lower quality collagen, which is why we start to experience signs of ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles and a loss of elasticity.

One of the most common questions we are asked is whether there are ways to boost collagen in the skin to prevent and minimise signs of ageing, so I'm here today to suggest a variety of options that could provide you with noticeable improvements in the quality and texture of your skin.

Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements are widely available at a number of different price points. There is research [1] to support the fact that supplements containing hydrolysed collagen can improve skin hydration and elasticity, and reduce wrinkles when taken consistently for at least 90 days.

Additionally, further research [2] revealed that collagen peptides present in collagen supplements can have a direct positive impact on fibroblasts, which give structure to the skin.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a key role in the collagen production process. In fact, vitamin C deficiencies can result in low collagen levels, as well as a number of health concerns, including gum issues and problems with healing wounds.

Our bodies aren't able to produce vitamin C, so it is vital to ensure that you're getting enough from your diet. Examples of foods that are high in vitamin C include broccoli, strawberries, red or green peppers, and citrus fruits.

You may also notice a number of skin benefits from topical products and treatments. We offer a Clinical Vitamin C Smooth and Bright treatment here at the clinic, which utilises 30% vitamin C to leave the skin looking visibly smoother and brighter.

Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid has the ability to retain more than 1,000 times its weight in water, which has powerful hydration properties for the skin. Additionally, hyaluronic acid has been shown to promote collagen production, which is why it is such a popular ingredient in both topical skincare products and aesthetic treatments.

Research [3] into dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid found that combining this powerful hydrator with purified polynucleotides successfully boosts the quality and amount of collagen present in the skin.

There are a variety of skin-boosting aesthetic treatments that contain hyaluronic acid, including Profhilo, Sunekos, Newest, and Redensity.

Aloe Vera
In a research study [4] from 2015, participants were provided with an aloe vera gel extract, which was to be taken orally. After taking aloe vera for 8 weeks, it was found that participants had better hydration levels, fine lines and wrinkles were reduced, and levels of collagen and hyaluronic acid had doubled. This led the researchers to determine that aloe has the ability to contribute to the production of skin-boosting cells.

Skin Protectors
Lifestyle and environmental factors can also have an effect on the levels and quality of collagen in the skin, with some researchers [5] suggesting that UV light exposure can damage collagen.

To prevent damage, it is important to protect the skin by using a broad spectrum sunscreen every day and wearing sunglasses to shield the delicate skin around the eyes. We recommend the Obagi range of products to our clients, which utilise medical grade ingredients to preserve radiance and prevent premature ageing.

Experts also recommend avoiding smoking and tobacco products, as well as limiting your caffeine intake, as both of these can negatively impact the body's ability to produce healthy collagen.

If you would like some more information regarding the medical grade skincare products my team and I recommend or the skin-boosting aesthetic treatments we offer here at the clinic, please don't hesitate to reach out and connect with us.

Resources:
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742704/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32436266/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7083941/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4345938/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4292080/