its all about collagen!!!

So we have all heard the hype around collagen, right? So let’s delve a little deeper to understand what it is, what it does and how we can increase it.

We all are going to age, but there are still ways we can stay looking youthful as we get older. Our bodies naturally make collagen when we’re young, which keeps our skin smooth. But as we get older the production of collagen slows down from our 30s!! That is when our skins elasticity and firmness starts deceasing and the signs of fine lines and wrinkles will slowing start appearing, so by adding collagen to our skin will help to improve our elasticity and firmness.

We can do this in many ways –

Regular facials with professional products that improve the signs of ageing will include key ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, Peptides and Hyaluronic acid. Advanced treatments such as Microneedling will work into the deeper layers and will target the stimulation of collagen.

Dermalux red light therapy which Speeds cell renewal, boosts collagen and increases hydration to target ageing and restore vitality.

A diet full of protein-rich foods, whether from plant or animal sources, can help supply these critical amino acids. Other nutrients that aid the process of collagen production includes zinc, vitamin c and copper.

Taking collagen supplements may help improve skin health, relieve joint pain and prevent bone loss.

Dermalogica’s Pro collagen banking serum will preserve our collagen today, so you have more for tomorrow! This powerful serum targets the protection of collagen, giving instantly firmer, brighter looking skin.

WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

The outermost layer of our skin is called the epidermis. Below this layer lies the dermis, which provides support and structure to the skin, including the epidermis. In the dermal layer we find what is called the extracellular matrix, a “scaffold” made of different proteins. The most abundant protein in the extracellular matrix is collagen type I. In fact, 90% of the dry weight of human skin is collagen type I. It is thus clear that collagen is immensely important for the skin. Other types of collagens in the skin are collagen type II, III and IV. Together, they form a three-dimensional structural network (the extracellular matrix) that provides support and helps the skin retain its elasticity and hydration.

The main five types of collagens and what they do are:

• Type I. This type makes up 90% of your body’s collagen. Type I is densely packed and used to provide structure to your skin, bones, tendons and ligaments.
• Type II. This type is found in elastic cartilage, which provides joint support.
• Type III. This type is found in muscles, arteries and organs.
• Type IV. This type is found in the layers of your skin.
• Type V. This type is found in the cornea of your eyes, some layers of skin, hair and tissue of the placenta.

WHY IS COLLAGEN IMPORTANT?

Due to pollution, stress, sun exposure and other toxins, the body’s capacity to produce collagen starts to deplete at age 30. Production starts to dwindle in our mid-to-late 20s and early 30s and we start losing 1% of our collagen per year after that. By 40, collagen drops dramatically, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles, skin sagging, skin drying and loss of energy.

While collagen can be found in one’s daily diet such as fish and vegetables, it is not enough to compensate for what is lost as you age. Having enough collagen in the body keeps skin, hair and nails healthy with a high level of energy and vitality.

BENEFITS OF FACIALS TO HELP WITH COLLAGEN PRODUCTION?

1. Increase Circulation

Facials help to renew skin cells by circulating the blood flow under the skin, good circulation is important as it brings oxygen, proteins and nutrition to the skin- increasing collagen too! Whilst the improvement of goodness is brought to the skin the stimulation of flow will also improve the ridding our skin of toxins, which then can decrease puffiness and fluid build-up that comes from our lymphatic system.

2. Anti-Aging

As we age the cell turnover rate slows down , enhancing the skin aging process. Getting a monthly facial, includes the use of professional exfoliations which will stimulate the cellular renewal process where collagen is produced. It will also strengthen the muscles in your face, minimising fine lines and wrinkles and gaining all around softer, smoother skin.

For more information or for FREE skin care advice, head over to our booking system to book a FREE FACEMAPPING service!