Collagen is one of the most beneficial proteins that we have in our bodies. It plays an important role in not only our skin but also our blood. It provides an essential structure to our skin and also helps our blood to clot that assists in the healing of wounds.
It’s one of the major building blocks of bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Collagen is also found in many other body parts, including blood vessels, corneas and teeth.
In the last few years collagen supplements have become quite popular with a large amount of them being hydrolyzed, making it easier for the skin to absorb the collagen.
Boosting your overall collagen levels can have great impacts on both your health and skin. It plays a role in strengthening skin elasticity and hydration. As you age, your body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles.
Unfortunately once we reach the age of 25 we start to lose at least 1% of collagen annually which is what can accelerate our ageing process.
What you Can Do At Home to Boost Collagen Levels
Vitamins A, C and E
Use Vitamins A, C and E topically in your skincare routine everyday. These are an excellent natural source that will assist in stimulating and boosting your collagen levels.
Apply SPF Daily
Apply some form of sun protection to your skin everyday. UV rays can damage your skin and cause your collagen levels to drop as a result. It’s wise to use a moisturiser with some form of spf protection built in that will help shield your skin and add a layer of protection to it.
Don’t Smoke
Studies have shown that the production level of collagen in smokers is much less than those who don’t smoke. Smoking is a known factor for premature ageing and the creation of fine lines and wrinkles. As collagen is one of the primarily healing properties in the skin and smoking slows it down, it therefore means that our skin no longer has a chance to heal when it’s damaged.
Get a Genetic Test
One of the most effective ways to do what’s best for your skin is to actually know where it’s weaknesses are. Genetic testing is a great way to break down your skins dna structure and to discover where exactly your skin needs to be improved and what steps you can take to do so.
Professional Treatments That Can Stimulate Collagen
Radio Frequency
Radio Frequency is an aesthetic technique used to heat the skin with the purpose of stimulating cutaneous collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid which all can help make the skin look younger and reduce the signs of ageing. Radio Frequency is often minimally invasive, painless and requires minimal downtime after treatment too.
Our Radio Frequency of choice here at Akin is Venus Freeze. Venus Freeze is the first and only comprehensive non-invasive and pain-free solution for body contouring, cellulite and circumference reduction, wrinkle reduction and skin tightening for the face, neck and body.Venus Freeze is a risk-free treatment suitable for male and females of all skin types that does not harm the skin and provides consistent results. Venus Freeze stands out from other non-surgical aesthetic treatments because it’s completely pain free and requires no downtime – treatments fit seamlessly into any lifestyle.
Laser Rejuvenation
Laser Genesis Skin Therapy uses advanced science to achieve vibrant, even skin tone and smooth texture in both men and women. Light penetrates deeply into the skin where collagen is manufactured, stimulating an increase of new collagen production. Unlike harsher methods, this is done without destroying the upper layers of skin (non-ablative). The Laser Genesis procedure safely, discreetly and effectively treats scars, uneven textures, fine line wrinkles and large pores. The result is skin with smoother texture and a healthier appearance. The skin is gently warmed during this procedure, and daily activities may be resumed right away. This is truly a rejuvenating experience with no downtime.
LED Phototherapy
LED Therapy uses light-emitting technology to activate and stimulate collagen production and increase the rate of skin cell renewal. Enhanced collagen production greatly reduces fine lines and improves the overall texture of the epidermis, resulting in a more youthful, radiant appearance. LED Therapy is painless and requires no downtime after treatments and can often be used after many other treatments to enhance results.
Chemical Peels
Chemical Peels work by removing the skins outer layer of dead skin cells. Chemical peels are a very effective way of reducing the signs of ageing and allowing the skin to rejuvinate. Chemical peels are a non surgical solution to help in the healing of sun damage, acne scarring, pigmentations and dry/damaged skin.
Profhilo
Profhilo injections contain hyaluronic acid which is an essential property in our skin to help it retain moisture and keep it protected. Profhilo helps boost the skin elasticity and collagen production by injecting it into targeted locations.Typically 2-3 treatments are required and a noticeable skin tightening and lifting in the cheeks can be seen within 8 weeks
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a technique that uses injections of vitamins, enzymes, and plant extracts to rejuvenate the skin and to stimulate collagen production. Mesotherapy can also be used to fade acne marks and scars over time, particularly if your skin surface is pitted, as hyaluronic acid with the solution helps to form volume in the skin, while other antioxidants and amino acids have an anti-inflammatory effect that encourages healing.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a demalogical procedure that uses small needles to penetrate the skin to stimulate the production of collagen and skin tissue for firmer, smoother and more toned skin. Microneedling is often carried out on the face but can be carried out on other parts of the body to help reduce acne scarring, large pores or wrinkles. Microneedling is minimally invasive and requires little downtime. A course of treatments is recommended to see optimum results.
There are a number of options available if you want to stimulate your collagen production at home or professionally done. It’s always best to consult an expert to get the best advice your what your skin needs. Book an appointment with one of our skin experts today to find the best solution for your skin.
