Collagen is the most important – and the most abundant – protein in the human body. Why is it so critical? For one, it holds our organs and tissues in place. It also helps to give the skin its shape and structure. Collagen also plays a role in keeping the skin elastic and firm and in bringing it back to its original shape after being stretched out – even when we move our facial muscles!
While collagen is critical, our body slows down collagen production when we are in our 20s, and our collagen stores are depleted around 1 percent each year after that! This leaves the skin at risk of developing wrinkles, fine lines and creases.
So, what should you do to reverse the decline in collagen production?
In this blog, we offer a few ways to stimulate collagen production, and we also recommend calling Dr. Peterson ASAP for his help in turning back the hands of time and erasing the signs of aging.
How to Stimulate Collagen Production
Facial Massage. Facial massage is a great way to boost collagen production, and in turn, tone and tighten your skin and smooth out lines and wrinkles. Massaging the face can increase circulation, giving you a healthy and more youthful appearance.
Collagen Amino Acids. You may be tempted to reach for collagen creams, but most of these products don’t work like they say they do. Because collagen molecules are too big to enter the skin, they sit on top of the skin instead of being absorbed. That means no benefit for you. Instead of collagen creams, reach for products that have collagen amino acids. Collagen amino acids are smaller than collagen molecules and can penetrate down to the deeper layers of your skin, so you see their benefits in plumping and lifting your skin.
Eat Better. Great-looking skin starts from within. If you want to increase collagen production, you should include foods in your diet that support collagen production. These include beans, cabbage and garlic, as well as fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, like oranges, grapefruit, spinach and broccoli.
We also suggest that you limit sugar. Sugar is bad for your skin because it can attach itself to collagen molecules, making them rigid and inflexible. When this happens, your skin becomes stiff and susceptible to wrinkling.
Quit Smoking. We’ve said it before, and we are saying it again: Stop smoking! It’s unhealthy for you and can cause premature aging because it can kill off collagen. So, despite your efforts to erase the signs of aging, smoking can sabotage your attempts.
Stay Hydrated. Drinking water helps to keep your cells healthy and your skin cells plump. Drinking water also helps extend the life of your collagen cells, keeping you looking good.
Call Dr. Peterson. If you want to boost collagen production, one of the best ways is through a skin-rejuvenating or skin-tightening service, such as laser skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion or a chemical peel.
Want to learn more about our anti-aging services? Call Dr. Jack Peterson today at 785-234-9000 to schedule a consultation.
