Do you want a plump, youthful complexion? Here’s how to boost collagen and turn back the clock on ageing!
Is your skin gradually losing elasticity and firmness? As we age, there is a decline in collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein responsible for maintaining your skin’s structural integrity, and when collagen levels drop, wrinkles, sagging skin, and fine lines become more pronounced. So if you are on a quest for a youthful complexion, you need to restore collagen levels in your body. Here’s a list of effective tips and tricks that can help you boost collagen and achieve healthier and more resilient skin.
Collagen supplements
If you are looking for ways to boost collagen levels in your body, collagen supplements are an excellent option. According to a 2021 review, using hydrolyzed collagen supplements for 90 days can reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity and hydration. Additionally, according to a 2020 review, collagen peptides in supplements have been shown to have a direct impact on fibroblasts, which are collagen structures in the body. Additionally, vegetarian and vegan alternatives are also available on the market for those who adhere to particular diets. Furthermore, blendable collagen is an option if you’d rather avoid taking tablets entirely.
A diet rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals. But what are free radicals? They are the molecules that the body produces during metabolism. Free radicals can also enter the body as a result of chemical exposure, such as that from smoking. By encouraging collagen production certain antioxidants can protect and revitalise the skin. But how to get them? Antioxidants are present in many plant-based foods. Research from 2013 suggests that the antioxidants in the following foods and drinks may be beneficial for the skin:
- Blueberries
- Green tea or epigallocatechin-3-gallate, green tea’s active component
- Yerba mate
- Liquorice extract
- Mulberry extract
- Pomegranate extract
- Coffee extract
- Astragalus
- Cinnamon
- Basil, oregano, and thyme essential oils
Retinol
Adding retinol to your skincare routine is an excellent way to boost collagen levels in your skin. Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, one of our body’s most vital nutrients for increasing cell turnover. It has a plethora of skin benefits – it exfoliates, brightens skin tone, reduces signs of ageing, and keeps breakouts at bay. Retinol also boosts collagen and elastin production by penetrating the deeper layers of the skin and activating cellular receptors.
Light therapy
Did you know that light therapy can boost collagen and improve wrinkles and other signs of ageing? Red light treatment may be a quick and effective method to boost collagen in the skin, according to the authors of a 2013 study report. Other researchers examined the impact of near-infrared light and red light on skin cells in a lab in 2021. They discovered that it boosted collagen and elastin synthesis. This may help to prevent wrinkles and other skin problems frequently linked to ageing.
Sun protection
If you want to preserve your youthful complexion, adequate sun protection is paramount. After all, prevention is better than cure! Excessive sun exposure can damage collagen fibres, leading to premature ageing. Therefore, don’t step out without slathering on a generous amount of sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent collagen breakdown. I also recommend wearing hats and staying in the shade during peak sun hours for added sun protection.
If you want to learn more about how to boost collagen in your body, schedule a consultation with me. Click here