Boosting The Skin’s Collagen Naturally & Effectively

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, and among many other things is responsible for the skin’s plumpness, firmness, cushioning and structure. So as you can imagine, when it comes to looking younger, collagen is fairly important. Hence why collagen-boosting skincare and supplements are so incredibly popular. But how does it all work?

Collagen’s Role in the Skin

As we age, not only do our existing collagen fibres break down, but our body’s production of new collagen slows. This results in thinner, more fragile skin. And as that existing scaffold of thick, plump collagen gets thinner and more damaged, the skin’s surface begins to sag downwards, as it no longer has that structure below propping it up as it once did. All the while, slowed production of new collagen means that scaffold is depleted faster than it can rebuild. Hence, in order to re-establish skin thickness to reduce crepiness and wrinkles, boosting our skin’s collagen production can go a long way.

Lifestyle’s Role in Collagen

Whilst collagen damage and slowed cell production are both natural, inevitable components of ageing, there are certain aspects of daily life that have a direct impact on how quickly these both occur. Free radicals (unstable oxygen molecules) are particularly known for breaking down collagen, and are generated in the body excess as a result of smoking, pollution, sun exposure, stress, poor sleep, and highly processed or pesticide-treated foods. Exposure to these lifestyle factors will therefore age our skin significantly faster than if we avoided them. As for the production of new collagen in the body, there are several factors which slows these processes even further too, including all of the above in addition to not receiving vital nutrients from our diet. 

Pro-Collagen Diets

To help protect your existing collagen, avoid free radical-inducing lifestyle factors and utilise antioxidants to neutralise them, mitigating damage to reduce signs of ageing. Antioxidant-rich foods include citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, which are also essential for new collagen synthesis. Existing research on collagen supplements (hydrolysed collagen peptides) and collagen-rich foods (such as bone broth, fish, and lean meats) is still inconclusive as to whether they truly support our own collagen production, however, evidence does suggest they are effective in increasing both the body’s hydration levels as well as gut health and function. These in turn will support our natural collagen production due to enhanced skin barrier function and dietary nutrient absorption.

Amino Acids such as Glycine, proline, and lysine (found in eggs, dairy, and meat) are also vital during collagen synthesis, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids found in fatty fish, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can help protect the skin’s suppleness and elasticity to promote collagen longevity. 

Collagen-Boosting Skincare

Research suggests that topical skincare products containing actual collagen will not assist with our own collagen protein. However, there are several products and ingredients which are invaluable when it comes to collagen. Vitamin A’s are considered a first course of action for anti-ageing due to their ability to accelerate skin and collagen cell turnover. Vitamin C’s are also essential for collagen-producing cells to function, as well as acting as a strong antioxidant to neutralise free radicals thereby protecting existing collagen fibres. Certain peptides, also known as messenger molecules, can directly signal cells to produce more collagen. This includes peptides such as palmitoyl pentapeptide, matrixyl and copper peptides.

Hydration & Protection

Hydration and moisturisation of the skin is another essential component of maintaining healthy collagen. Drinking enough water throughout the day ensures the body has what it needs to allow healthy cell turnover. Skin which is lacking water is also prone to faster deterioration, so water-attracting ingredients like hyaluronic acid can be used to bind and retain water in the skin to better protect it. Skin lacking oils will also break down faster and be more exposed to damage, so as well as hyaluronic acid serums, a good lipid-rich moisturiser is necessary to replenish moisture and lock in water content. And of course, the ultimate form of skin protection - broad spectrum sunscreen should be applied daily to avoid free radical production and directly shield collagen from destruction from UV.

Professional Treatments to Improve Collagen in Skin

In addition to home skincare and a healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise routine, plenty of professional skin treatments aim to significantly boost new collagen in the skin. Whilst these all work in very different ways, most have the same desired outcome. This is to stimulate collagen-producing cells into action, whether it be through the generation of heat, or harnessing the body’s wound-healing response. These include microneedling, lasers, IPL, radio frequency, ultrasound and more. Chemical peels can also be used to exfoliate superficial skin cells in order to promote new skin cell and collagen cell turnover.

If you're wanting to slow down signs of ageing, protecting and stimulating collagen should come as a first priority. Unfortunately, collagen production tends to occur relatively slowly, with results seen from treatments and lifestyle changes typically after at least 2-3 months. However, by combining a healthy approach to lifestyle, wearing daily sun protection, and utilising professional products and treatments, you may be shocked by how significantly your collagen can wind back the clock.