Collagen is a protein our bodies use to make connective tissue associated with your bones, ligaments, skin, cartilage, muscles, and more. As we age, collagen production naturally slows down. But that doesn’t have to be the end of the story. You can easily boost collagen production by doing a few simple things. It starts with examining what you might be doing to sabotage yourself.
Things that Reduce Collagen Production
It’s important to know the factors that can reduce or inhibit your body’s collagen production. By changing some habits and starting some new ones, you can boost collagen production and be on your way to younger-healthier looking skin.
Here are a few things that cause collagen production to drop most quickly:
- Excess sun exposure
- Smoking
- Excess alcohol
- Lack of sleep
So, while cutting back on excess sun exposure and excess alcohol, quitting smoking, and getting enough sleep won’t boost collagen production, treating your body right can help collagen levels return to normal, and help your body heal itself.
In the meantime, here are some things you can do to boost collagen and elastin production.
1. Eat the Right Foods
Everything you eat affects how well your body, including your skin, operates. To help keep collagen levels high, make sure to eat collagen-rich foods and foods rich in Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps your body make its own collagen. This can include protein-rich foods including:
- Bone broth
- Fish with the skin on
- Chicken
- Fruits and vegetables
You also want to eat foods rich in antioxidants, which can help boost collagen production.
2. Consider Collagen Supplements
Another option is to take collagen supplements. Several studies have linked taking collagen supplements to increased skin elasticity in women 35 years old and older. Collagen supplements may also help with joint pain. Look for hydrolyzed collagen supplements – one of our favorites is Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen. It’s a powder you can mix into hot or cold liquids.
3. Use Skincare Products with Beta Glucan
Beta-Glucans can help prevent cell damage and help to soothe redness and irritation. Beta-Glucans are known for their skin plumping properties, helping to deeply hydrate the skin, plumping and firming fine lines and wrinkles. It can help promote collagen production and stimulate wound healing, and it’s 20% more hydrating than Hyaluronic Acid! When you use lotions, moisturizers or serums with beta glucan, it can help your skin become more hydrated and elastic, hiding fine lines and wrinkles. Be sure to read product directions before use. Your aesthetician can recommend scientifically-tested skincare products with beta glucan that are suitable for your skin type.
4. Use Skincare Products with Retinoids
High-quality skincare products containing retinoids are also a proven way to boost collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, and more. By boosting collagen, promoting new skin cell growth, and plumping the skin, you can combat the effects of aging and make your skin look smoother and healthier. Our favorite is Skin Better AlphaRet!
5. Specialized Skincare Treatments with Aesthetics at Cima Health
In combination with all of the above, working with one of our skilled aestheticians can help you achieve and maintain optimal collagen levels for healthier, younger-looking skin. Some of your options include:
NEW! Potenza™ Radio Frequency Microneedling
We’re thrilled to introduce the new Potenza™ Radio Frequency Microneedling treatment to our clients. Potenza™ is an FDA-approved microneedling treatment for your face, neck, and body. Using ultra-fine needles and radiofrequency (RF), it penetrates the top layer of your skin, triggering the natural healing process, which boosts collagen and elastin production. It’s safe for all skin types and produces remarkable results!
Laser Skin Tightening
We provide laser skin tightening treatments using the revolutionary Laser Genesis handheld tool. The laser gently heats the middle layer of skin (under your outer layer) to kickstart collagen production. This plumps the skin and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. You may need several 30-minute sessions to achieve optimal results.
DMK Enzyme Therapy
Last but not least, our DMK enzyme therapy treatment not only boosts collagen production, but it also leaves your skin feeling softer and looking refreshed. In addition, it reduces the effects of aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, acne, and scarring. It’s such a versatile treatment we recommend it for most of our clients, as it can be customized to your skin type and skin concerns.
We have other skin rejuvenation treatments that boost collagen production and elastin production. Which treatments are right for you can only be determined during a one-on-one skin consultation.
Schedule a Consultation
Not sure what treatments your skin needs? Schedule a free consultation to get recommendations. If you’re looking for younger, healthier-looking skin, we understand. Schedule a skin consultation today to get a personalized skincare plan that will help you see real results. And you’re in experienced hands when you visit Aesthetics at Cima Health.
From the initial consultation to the treatment room, we offer the highest quality skincare and laser services, individualized to your needs. We are more than clinicians; we understand how hard it can be to carve out time for yourself to look and feel your best. We help you make the most of your time by offering the best range of treatments.
Book an appointment today.
