Article Overview
- The reduction of collagen in skin is a component of intrinsic ageing. A structural protein, collagen is found naturally in bones, muscles and skin, and supports integrity and strength.
- The promotion of collagen is one of the most efficacious steps in anti-ageing routines. Ahead, we discuss how to stimulate collagen production in skin, to both address apparent signs of ageing and protect against future stress.
- The benefits of collagen for face texture and appearance are wide-ranging. You can support collagen production within your skincare routine, by including ingredients that support its natural production. Ahead, see what boosts collagen in skin and how to implement it.
WHAT IS COLLAGEN?
Collagen occurs when amino acids combine to form collagen fibres. Throughout the body, this fibrous protein helps to strengthen tissue and promote elasticity. In skin, collagen and elastin are both produced within the dermis. So what does collagen do to maintain youthful skin? The presence of collagen for facial skin provides the following benefits:
1. Promotes a firm & bouncy skin texture. Collagen protects the structure and strength of the dermis, by helping it to maintain elasticity and combat physiological ageing. This results in a taught and uniform texture.
2. Encourages hydration in skin. Collagen production helps to promote healthy moisture levels. An increased presence of amino acids helps to retain moisture in skin, resulting in a bouncier, softer skin texture.
3. Reduces the appearance of apparent fine lines. Collagen works to maintain firmed skin in youth, but it can also be supplemented later on in life to address the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
WHAT IMPACT COLLAGEN PRODUCTION
Our rate of collagen production naturally declines as we age. Collagen levels typically peak between 25–34 years, and thereafter both the quality and quantity lessen. Alongside the chronological decline, collagen can be impacted by external stress such as smoking, UV radiation and pollution. Finally, glycation – the process of sugar molecules interacting with skin – weakens proteins like collagen. Signs of collagen depletion can include:
- Loss of laxity and firmness in skin, resulting in a sagging affect along the jawline and under eyes
- Thinning of skin, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of hydration, resulting in dry skin and dulled complexions
HOW TO INCREASE COLLAGEN PRODUCTION
There are multiple ways to boost collagen in skin. Some dermal procedures like chemical peels can support collagen production, as well as certain skincare ingredients. If you’re wondering whether chemical peels are suited to your skin concerns or skin type, consult your dermatologist. To enhance the collagen-boosting ability of your anti-ageing skincare routine, see how to increase collagen in face below.
VITAMIN C SERUMS
Antioxidant-infused serums are often used to protect against external stress, but does vitamin C boost collagen? Antioxidants like vitamin C play a role in collagen synthesis as well as stabilising collagen. The lightweight formulas of serums help to implement ingredients like antioxidants deeply into skin, assisting multiple layers. C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum imparts 15% L-ascorbic acid, a highly potent form of vitamin C, alongside plant-based antioxidant 0.5% ferulic acid. Key benefits include advanced protection against environmental stress and improved appearance of skin laxity.
RETINOL CREAMS
A highly efficacious skincare ingredient, retinol speeds the skin cell cycle, promoting fresher and younger skin. For those wondering ‘does retinol boost collagen?’, retinoids such as retinol also assist in slowing down the breakdown of this important protein. Retinol 0.3 Anti-Ageing Night Cream is suitable for first time retinol users – formulated with 0.3% pure retinol and comforting bisabolol. Once skin acclimatises, Retinol 0.5 Anti-Ageing Night Cream can be implemented for continued skin support.
PEPTIDES
Peptides in skincare promote collagen production two-fold: by “signaling” to the skin cells (specifically the fibroblasts) to increase its collagen and elastin production, and by helping to “carry” other collagen-promoting ingredients to deeper layers of the skin to enhance their skin benefits. SkinCeuticals offer two peptide serums P-Tiox and Collagen iii
NIACINAMIDE
Niacinamide can help with collagen production by promoting certain metabolic functions within skin’s proteins. Niacinamide also helps inhibit the breakdown of existing collagen production, and plays a role in strengthening the skin moisture barrier to protect from free radical damage.
CERAMIDES
Ceramides don’t promote new collagen production, but help by inhibiting the breakdown of existing collagen in the skin. Ceramides help prevent transepidermal water loss, while strengthening the skin moisture barrier to protect from free radicals that can penetrate the skin and damage existing collagen and elastin.
HYALURONIC ACID
To a degree, collagen is impacted through external stress. An effective method of how to boost collagen in face is through moisture content promotion. The skin moisture barrier plays a vital role in protecting skin layers from external stressors, which in turn affect collagen production. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant skincare ingredient – meaning that it can draw moisture to skin. HA Intensifier Hyaluronic Acid Serum deeply hydrates skin with the inclusion of 1.3% hyaluronic acid and 10% Proxylane™, developed to support skin’s natural hyaluronic acid levels.
BLUEBERRY EXRACT
The skin around our eyes is 40% thinner than the rest of the facial area. Because of this, a reduction in collagen production can often be seen here first. To combat loss of laxity and firmness which can result in wrinkles like crow’s feet and under eye circles, specially formulated products are recommended. A.G.E Complex Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream is enriched with blueberry extract – an antioxidant. This helps to fortify skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes.
Found this article helpful? Keep reading to discover dull skin causes and how to brighten it.
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