Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It is the main component of connective tissues, having many important functions. Among other things, collagen is responsible for the strength and elasticity of the skin.
But with age, the natural production of collagen
decreases, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, loss of skin firmness and elasticity.
The main benefits of collagen for the skin
Studies in recent years have shown that both topical and oral collagen can help delay the skin’s aging process. Collagen is found in food supplements, but also in cosmetic products. Also, many nutrients can support the production of endogenous (natural) collagen, so that through a balanced lifestyle and a proper care routine, you can support, in the long term, skin health.
Here are some of the benefits that collagen has on the skin
● Improves skin elasticity and firmness. Due to the fact that it maintains its resistance, the skin retains its firm and luminous appearance. Sagging skin is one of the consequences of aging, so it is important that, through a correct care routine, you avoid damaging the collagen fibers responsible for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and resistance.
● Prevents and delays the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The stronger the connective tissue in the skin, the lower the risk of wrinkles. These signs of aging appear when the skin becomes fragile and less elastic. A healthy supply of collagen helps fill the spaces between cells, keeping the dermal layer hydrated, meaning wrinkles are less likely to appear.
● Helps protect thin and fragile skin. The breakdown of collagen fibers means that the skin can become thin and fragile, but also drier than usual. Therefore, it is more prone to peeling and is more difficult to heal. Collagen can help keep the skin hydrated and retain water in the layers of the skin, as well as tissue regeneration.
Methods by which you can stimulate collagen production
Because with age, endogenous (natural) collagen fibers deteriorate faster, additional measures are needed to stimulate the production of this protein.
Among the methods by which you can stimulate collagen production are:
● Introducing products containing hyaluronic acid into the daily routine. Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid helps increase the quantity and quality of collagen in the skin and improve elasticity. Hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin, so the risk of fine lines and wrinkles is less.
● Introducing products containing vitamin C into your daily routine. This vitamin is essential for collagen synthesis. Vitamin C creams and serums not only support collagen production, but also provide skin protection against harmful environmental factors (ultraviolet radiation, pollution) responsible for premature skin aging.
● Eating foods rich in antioxidants and proteins. Meat, eggs, fish and legumes are rich in protein and provide the essential amino acids needed for collagen synthesis. Antioxidants also help protect the body from free radicals, which are molecules that the body produces when exposed to harmful substances that can damage collagen fibers. Licorice and pomegranate extract, as well as green tea, are important sources of antioxidants. At the same time, citrus fruits, strawberries and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin C, one of the most well-known antioxidants.
● Avoidance of aggressive factors. Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, cigarette smoke and pollution helps maintain natural collagen.
● Adequate hydration. Ensuring adequate hydration maintains skin flexibility and helps support collagen production.
In young people, the body produces more collagen. It is not only the quantity that is relevant, but also the quality, which is also better in the younger years. For this reason the skin is more elastic and resilient among young adults. As people age, the body produces less collagen, which makes the skin appear duller and drier.
In conclusion, collagen is a substance that the body produces naturally. Genetic factors and nutrients such as vitamin C are essential for its production. An effective skin care routine and a healthy diet help protect collagen fibers, which break down more quickly with age, reducing the risk of fine lines and wrinkles.
Photo source: Freepik
2024-01-29 12:27:31
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