The Role of Collagen in the Condition of Your Skin

You’ve probably noticed collagen-stimulating ingredients in many anti-aging formulas, moisturizers, and serums, and you may have also heard about the positive effects of collagen on your hair, skin, and nails. Hearing about it does not necessarily mean that you understand its role in your overall skin health, however. What exactly is collagen, and how exactly does it benefit your skin? We hear this question frequently, and it has inspired us to provide this overview of collagen and its many benefits. 

What is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and can be found in our organs, tissues, skin, and tendons. It serves as the super glue that holds the body together. In fact, the word “collagen” is derived from the Greek word, kola, which means “glue”. In addition to providing structural support, the protein also helps replace and restore dead skin cells, which leads to smoother and firmer skin.

As we age, the body’s natural production of collagen begins to slow down significantly. External factors such as ultraviolet light, smoking, and high sugar consumption can also reduce collagen production. With less collagen to fill it out, our skin gradually loses its firmness, which results in wrinkles and sagging. The cartilage in your joints can also become weaker as a result of lower collagen production. This is where the need to supplement this superstar protein comes in.

Collagen’s Role in the Skin

While collagen is beneficial for your entire body (it strengthens bones and joints, keeps hair strong, improves digestion, maintains metabolism and energy levels, the list goes on….), it is most well-known for its skin-related benefits. When we can successfully stimulate collagen, we can see a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, increased elasticity, and improved skin tone. Its amino acids also moisturize the skin, keeping it smooth and supple. Now, you’re probably wondering, where do I find this magical protein?

Collagen Sources

While you can’t avoid your body’s natural loss of collagen with age, there are some things you can do to promote its production and protect what you already have. Eating certain foods can help boost collagen levels, as will taking certain supplements. Topically, use skin care products containing retinol and collagen-stimulating peptides, and if this is still not enough, speak with your aesthetician about the range of other treatment options that are available.

There are also plenty of daily lifestyle choices that you can make in order to preserve the collagen that your body naturally produces. Using sunscreen daily, limiting your intake of sugar and junk foods, and not smoking can all help prevent collagen’s degradation.

At Leah Nickie ADVANCED AESTHETICS, we offer several services and treatments that stimulate collagen production, including Collagen 90 II (an exclusive seven-phase corrective process), LED light therapy, and our Collagen Induction Therapy with Dermapen. All of these options will improve the appearance of your skin, leaving it radiant and youthful.

Collagen is an essential protein and an important building block to achieving a smooth and flawless complexion. Schedule your free consultation, and let our skin care experts set you on your way to healthier looking skin.

Feature photo via Pixabay