Collagen, which is the most plentiful protein in the human body, provides structure, strength, and support.
As we age, the collagen protein is much less abundant as it breaks down. The decrease begins around 30 years of age and gets more difficult for your body to produce more.
The effects of age-related collagen loss are obvious. Skin sags and becomes etched with fine lines and wrinkles.
Collagen is produced naturally in the body together with amino acids, the building blocks of proteins found in food.
Your body needs:
PROTEIN found in egg whites, dairy, cabbage, mushrooms and asparagus
GLYCINE from pork, chicken, and gelatin
VITAMIN C abundant in citrus fruits and bell peppers
ZINC found in beets, chickpeas, lentils, beans, milk, cheese, nuts, and seeds
COPPER in organ meats, cocoa powder, cashews, and sesame seeds
Exposure to smoking, UV radiation, and environmental pollution causes collagen production to decline. The results are the reason older skin lacks strength, firmness, and elasticity.
Never Skip Applying SPF Every Day!
The sun is extremely damaging, weakening collagen and elastin and causing them to break down at a higher rate than normal.
Elastin, along with collagen, is the structure of the skin that maintains elasticity and firmness.
Along with smoking and sun exposure, sugar is collagen’s worst enemy. After digesting sugar through food and drink, your body breaks it down into carbs and glucose. The effects of the inflammation caused by sugar breaks down collagen and elastin.
This is Bad News for the Skin.
Sleep is the best medicine. Poor or too little sleep wreaks havoc on your skin. When your body is in rest mode, it has a chance to replenish itself going into restoration to regenerate new skin cells and repairing damage from daily environmental aggressors.
- Add an antioxidant to your skin care regimen (vitamin C is one of the most trusted in skincare).
- Add a collagen-boosting retinol product (which is a form of vitamin A).
- Hyaluronic Acid is essential for hydrating benefits.
Call or visit Kiki Skin & Body Spa to learn more about the treatments and skincare products that will protect the collagen in your skin.
