THE JOURNAL / What is Collagen and How Does it Affect the Ageing Process?
What is Collagen and How Does it Affect the Ageing Process?
By: Amanda Azzopardi
11/07/24
Collagen – a buzzword we’re hearing everywhere at the moment. But what exactly is collagen and how does it play a role in the ageing process?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies. It’s a major building block that provides structure, support and strength to various tissues. Collagen can be found in your:
- Skin: Collagen plumps and smoothes your skin, giving your complexion its youthful elasticity
- Bones: Collagen provides the framework for strong bones
- Cartilage: It cushions our joints and allows for pain-free movement
- Tendons: These tough cords rely on collagen for strength and flexibility
- Blood vessels: Collagen also plays a role in the structure and integrity of your blood vessels
As we age, collagen production in our bodies naturally slows down – typically from your 20s onwards. This decline contributes to many visible signs of ageing, especially noticeable in the skin.
- Wrinkles and fine lines: With less collagen to plump and support the skin, wrinkles and fine lines become more noticeable
- Loss of volume and elasticity: As collagen production dips, skin loses its youthful bounce and fullness
- Dryness: Collagen helps the skin retain moisture. Reduced collagen levels can lead to drier, less supple skin
It’s important to note that collagen loss isn’t the sole culprit behind ageing skin. Sun exposure, smoking and genetics will also determine how you age.
Can We Boost Collagen?
While we can’t turn back the clock on collagen production entirely, there are ways to support your body’s natural production and minimise collagen loss:
- Diet: Include foods rich in vitamin C, proline and glycine; the amino acids that make up collagen. Think: citrus fruits, bell peppers, bone broth and egg whites
- Sun protection: Sun exposure is a major destroyer of collagen – and the number one cause of signs of ageing on the skin. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily… even if you’re indoors, or it’s cloudy outside
- Lifestyle choices: Smoking accelerates collagen breakdown. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting enough sleep can also be beneficial in slowing its decline
Collagen Supplements
Amanda recommends: Totally Derma and Arella Vegan Collagen for vegetarians
If you’re looking for a collagen supplement that works, both these products have proven clinical trials and data to back up their claims. Totally Derma is bovine collagen, which boasts a small-enough molecular structure to boost your hair, skin and nails through the small intestine. It can also help with reducing inflammation in your joints and improving hydration in mucosal tissue; such as vaginal dryness in women, as well as helping to reduce hot flushes and skin dryness.
The Takeaway Message
Collagen is a vital protein that keeps our bodies functioning well and looking youthful. While collagen production naturally slows down with age, there are steps you can take to support your body’s natural collagen production; whilst minimising collagen loss. Remember: a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, sun protection and good sleep habits goes a long way in promoting overall well-being and maintaining a more youthful appearance.
Book a Complimentary Skin Consultation with Amanda To Learn More
Any questions for us on collagen, skincare products to use or anti-ageing in general? Our expert team, led by Advanced Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner & Prescriber Amanda Azzopardi are on hand to provide you with bespoke skin advice; with the help of our advanced skin scanner, which analyses the deeper layers of the dermis to provide an in-depth, bespoke insight into your skin’s health. Understanding your skin concerns and skin type is key in devising a treatment plan that’ll achieve real results.
Off the back of your results, Amanda can prescribe medical-grade skincare products through our partner, Get Harley, delivered straight to your door. These results-driven products from leading brands complement other in-clinic treatments – such as LaseMD Ultra or skin peels, perfectly.
Book your complimentary consultation at Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics today: it’s time to embark on your unique journey with us, creating true confidence from within.
