Collagen is the foundation for youthful, radiant skin. It provides strength, elasticity, and support to the skin. But as we age, collagen production begins to decline, leading to visible signs of aging – wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. But proper skincare routine and healthy lifestyle habits can increase collagen in skin. Read through to explore what is collagen in skin and learn how to increase collagen in skin.
What is Collagen in Skin?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It is the key component of the skin and is responsible for its structure, strength, and elasticity. Through its dense network of fibers, it provides support and resilience to the skin. Collagen also plays a role in maintaining skin hydration and firmness.
Why Do Collagen Levels Decrease?
Collagen levels decrease due to a combination of internal and external factors. The natural aging process and genetic reasons are the most prominent reasons for the decline in collagen production over time. On the other hand, external factors such as prolonged sun exposure, smoking, poor nutrition, and chronic stress also contribute to collagen depletion. These factors disrupt collagen synthesis and accelerate its breakdown, resulting in visible signs of aging and decreased collagen levels in the skin.
How to Boost Collagen in Skin?
Different approaches can help increase collagen in skin. These include food, supplements, skin care products and medical treatments. In each case, consistency is the key to reap great results. Let’s explore them one by one:
1. Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements have gained popularity among individuals seeking to enhance their skin health. A study conducted in 2021 concluded that the consumption of hydrolyzed collagen supplements over 90 days effectively reduced wrinkles while improving skin elasticity and hydration. Another research conducted in 2020 discovered that the collagen peptides present in these supplements directly affected fibroblasts, the collagen structures within the body. These studies established the importance of regular intake of dietary collagen supplements.
2. Creams and Serums
Creams and serums primarily focus on hydrating the skin and improving its suppleness. While they may not directly boost collagen levels as collagen molecules are big and not absorbed in the skin through topical application, the ingredients present in skincare products like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, Vitamins C and E, and ferulic acid stimulate collagen synthesis, leading to an increase in the levels of collagen in the skin.
3. Diet Changes
Are you looking for how to increase collagen in skin naturally? There a few food groups that can help increase collagen in skin. Bone broth, protein-rich foods, and foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and copper aid in collagen formation. Regular intake of these collagen-boosting foods can increase collagen levels significantly.
4. Medical Treatments
Medical treatments offer advanced methods to boost collagen production and enhance skin health. Resurfacing lasers, Botox, Microneedling, Chemical peels, and Platelet plasma injections are the top research-certified methods to increase collagen in skin. While these treatments offer targeted solutions for collagen rejuvenation and skin improvement, they must be administered by a trained dermatologist using the best collagen for skin in India products.
Conclusion
As collagen levels in the skin begin to drop with age, how to increase collagen in skin becomes the most common concern. To increase collagen in skin go in for a holistic approach that combines various strategies like incorporating collagen-boosting foods into your diet, using skincare products with collagen-stimulating ingredients, and practicing a healthy lifestyle. Advanced methods to increase collagen in skin include medical treatments, which trained and certified professionals must carry out.
