Collagen is found in our joints, fingernails, skin, and hair, and provides our cells with strength. Collagen also gives our skin that youthful plumpness.
But as we age, collagen levels naturally decrease. We can boost the level of collagen in the body with a considered diet, choice supplements, and carefully chosen skincare. Find out more with this guide.
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is the most prominent protein found in the human body. We have it in our ligaments and tendons, our fat, and our skin. Collagen keeps our cells healthy and strong.
Collagen is also associated with a youthful look. Collagen gives skin texture and shape. When our collagen levels are low, our skin can sag and look dull. When collagen levels are high, skin has more bounce and glow.
While the body naturally produces collagen, the level of collagen it produces reduces as we age. For this reason, many people try to add collagen to their body from other sources.
Take A Collagen Supplement
An easy way to stimulate collagen production is by taking a collagen supplement. Studies have shown that taking hydrolyzed collagen supplements for 90 days can reduce the appearance of skin aging by boosting skin elasticity and improving hydration.
Collagen supplements are readily available from health stores, in both capsule and powder forms. For the skin, look for Type 1 collagen.
Type 1 collagen is the most abundant collagen in the body, and the supplement can increase the levels found in hair, nails, and skin.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid can help wounds heal faster and relieve pain in joints. Studies also suggest that hyaluronic acid can stimulate collagen production.
As hyaluronic acid is often associated with bouncier skin, there are many reasons to consider adding hyaluronic acid to your routine.
The body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, but, as with collagen, levels decrease as you age.
You can add hyaluronic acid to your routine with topical creams. Many skincare brands add hyaluronic acid to their moisturizing formula, and specialized ointments are also available.
Or, you could try a hyaluronic acid capsule.
Hyaluronic acid is also used in dermal fillers.
Eat Foods Rich In Vitamin C
One of the best methods of stimulating collagen production is a considered diet. Vitamin C is necessary for the biosynthesis of collagen.
When you suffer with a vitamin C deficiency, collagen synthesis stalls, and this can weaken cells and connective tissue.
The human body doesn’t naturally produce vitamin C, so you must get it from outside sources.
A vitamin C rich diet includes citrus fruits, tomatoes, red peppers, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and strawberries.
Vitamin C is also sold in supplements. This can be useful if you find your diet doesn’t include enough vitamin C, and you want a quick boost.
Apply Aloe Vera
After a nasty burn, many of us apply aloe vera to soothe the area. Part of the reason aloe vera is used to heal wounds is that it increases collagen synthesis.
This effect has been observed with both ingested and topical applications of aloe vera.
Aloe can be applied in its pure form, so if you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can use it directly from the source! Alternatively, aloe vera is a prominent ingredient in many skin care products and ointments.
Aloe vera can also benefit collagen production when taken orally. Aloe vera supplements can be purchased at many health stores.
Take Ginseng
Ginseng is a root with proven anti-aging benefits. Ginseng releases antioxidants into the bloodstream, which protect your cells and can give your skin a healthy glow.
Ginseng is available in supplements and tinctures, although many people prefer ginseng tea. To make ginseng tea, simply slice fresh ginseng into hot water, and leave the mixture to steep for five to ten minutes.
Add a touch of honey for sweetness. If you dislike the taste, you can add fresh ginseng to green tea.
Vitamin A And Retinoids
Derivatives of vitamin A include retinal and beta carotene, which are antioxidants typically associated with skin health.
Topical applications of these compounds have been shown to potentially benefit collagen production and improve skin health.
It is also beneficial to add vitamin A rich foods to your diet.
Some sources of vitamin A include kale, broccoli, spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash, as well as beef liver, fish oils, and milk. Vitamin A is also sold in supplement form.
LED Light Treatments
If you want to try a different method of stimulating collagen production in the skin, you can try LED light therapy.
This method uses a combination of red and near-infrared lights to stimulate the fibroblast cells. Red light therapy can increase the expression of both collagen and elastin.
Red light therapy is offered by many dermatologists. Many find the treatment to be highly relaxing. You can also purchase equipment to use at home.
Protect The Skin
One of the best methods for stimulating collagen production is to protect the skin from things that might be harming collagen levels.
Avoid using tanning beds, and protect your skin from the sun. Although it’s good to spend time outside, make sure you wear a protective sunscreen, and cover exposed parts of the body with clothing.
Why Stimulate Collagen Production In The Skin?
Cells with a good level of collagen are strong, and collagen plays a key role in the health of both our skin and bones.
Along with elastin, these proteins provide skin with bounce and resistance, leading to a youthful appearance.
Once you start encouraging collagen production, the body becomes better at creating it and storing it. So, the more collagen you have, the stronger your bones are, and the more collagen your body can maintain.
Conclusion
Collagen gives the skin a healthy and youthful appearance. The best way to stimulate collagen production is by considering your diet, and carefully choosing your skincare. Don’t forget to protect the skin, as well! Sunscreen is vital.
All aspects of health are incredibly important in keeping us at the top of our game when it matters most. But many people choose to ignore the health that they cannot see - including the gut, cognitive, respiratory, and more.
Hi, my name is Adam Maxwell and I have been a medical professional for over 20 years. My wife is also in the same field, having been a trained clinical psychologist for 15 years.
Between us, we have seen a fair amount of health-related issues!
