Collagen is an important protein found deep within our skin that provides structure and elasticity. Think of it as the scaffolding that keeps our skin firm and wrinkle-free. Unfortunately, from the age of 25 collagen production slows down and we loose 1% of our collagen every year. This decline speeds up as we head into our menopausal years.
Here’s 5 hints about how you can boost your collagen production naturally.
- Eat a balanced Diet.Consuming a healthy and balanced diet promotes the natural production of collagen. Foods such as salmon, garlic, and avocado are particularly suitable as well as foods that are high in Vitamin C.
- Stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water can keep your skin healthy and hydrated, which can help boost collagen production. Remember – this doesn’t include caffeinated drinks such as tea and coffee which are diuretics and cause dehydration.
- Protect you skin from the sun.
UV radiation from the sun can cause collagen to break down, leading to wrinkles and other signs of aging. Ensure you wear an SPF every day, even when it’s cloudy, to avoid sun damage.
- Avoid smoking.
If you’re a smoker you may have noticed those lines around your lips. Every cigarette depletes 25mg of Vitamin C – an essential ingredient for collagen production.
- Use topical Vitamin C.
Vitamin C is essential for collagen production and can be applied topically to the skin, as well as including vitamin C rich foods such as berries and citrus fruit in your diet.
It’s important to note that while collagen supplements are currently very popular, there is no direct evidence that they work. This is mainly due to the large size of the collagen molecule, making it difficult to absorb. A better approach is to consider supplementing with the necessary ingredients to help support your own internal collagen formation.
At Looking Glass Aesthetics we recommend Advanced Nutrition Programme’s Skin Collagen Synergy, which gives a daily dose of collagen building nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc and phytonutrients.
If you are looking for advice on how to boost collagen through either treatments such as micro-needling or a collagen boosting skin regimen, Looking Glass Aesthetics offer free consultations. Give us a call on 01789 261144 or book via our online system.