Collagen is the most plentiful protein in the human body. It is part of the “scaffolding” that keeps skin supple. Collagen is also responsible for healthy joints. It is in your bones, muscles, and blood, comprising three-quarters of your skin and one-third of the protein in your body.
As we age, the collagen protein is much less abundant. Over time it begins to break down. The decrease in collagen production begins around 30 years old and it becomes more difficult for your body to produce more. We end up with less than we had as children. The effects of age-related collagen loss are obvious. Gone is the plump skin with a youthful look! Skin sags and becomes etched with fine lines and wrinkles.
The good news? Collagen is produced naturally in the body together with amino acids, the building blocks of proteins found in food. And, you can treat your skin with the help of products and services.
WHAT YOUR BODY NEEDS
- PROLINE: 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 beef, chickpeas, and peppers.
- COPPER: found in organ meats, cocoa powder, cashews, and sesame seeds.
WHAT TO AVOID
- Exposure to smoking, UV radiation, and environmental pollution also cause collagen production to decline. This is evident in older skin which lacks strength, firmness, and elasticity of younger, less exposed skin.
- Never skip SPF! The sun is extremely damaging, Weakening collagen and elastin, 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 the sugar break down the collagen and elastin. This is bad news for your skin!
WHAT TO DO
- Consider a collagen-boosting filler. Ask your Kiki Skin and Body Spa aesthetician about certain fillers that contain a synthetic substance that has the ability to stimulate collagen growth.
- Add an antioxidant to your skincare products. Vitamin C is one of the most trusted in skincare. Also, include a collagen-boosting Retinol product and hyaluronic acid for its hydrating benefits.
- Call or visit Kiki Skin and Body Spa to learn more about protecting the wonder of collagen in your skin.