Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is the main component in our skin, bones, and muscles. It provides the structure and support that holds the body together. When we are young, our bodies produce all the collagen we need but as we age, collagen production slows down by 1% per year which can be accelerated even more by exposure to uv light and various toxins like tobacco. A reduction in the collagen content of skin leads to loss of elasticity and firmness which creates fine lines, wrinkles and a sagging appearance. So, what can be done?
Collagen production is also increased with injury or perceived injury. Both Sublative Radiofrequency and Microneedling are perceived as injuries by the body and can stimulate the body to increase not only the rate of collagen production but improve the quality of the collagen made. This increased production can continue for weeks to months after a single treatment leading to firmer, more youthful looking skin.
One strategy for improving wrinkles and producing a more youthful look is to supplement your body’s collagen either topically in creams and serums applied to the skin or orally by maintaining a diet rich in amino acids or by adding peptide supplements. Peptides applied to the skin actually stimulate collagen production. Two peptide containing products you may already be familiar with are ZO®️ Daily Power Defense and Recovery Cream. In addition, two procedures that can improve absorption of these collagen building blocks are a Hydrafacial which exfoliates the skin and Microneedling which allows for direct penetration of the peptides into the deeper layers of the skin.
Secondly, a diet rich in animal and plant proteins can provide the raw materials necessary for collagen production. If collagen supplements are desired, these should be in the form of peptides which are smaller than collagen and more easily absorbed.
Collagen is the protein that provides structure to your skin creating a smooth, youthful look. Applying peptides, the building block of collagen, to the skin’s surface increases collagen production and improves texture and tone. Both ZO®️ Daily Power Defense and Recovery Cream contain peptides. In addition, a balanced diet rich in peptides or the use of peptide supplements can be another source of collagen building blocks. And if you want “a little help from your friends,” a Hydrafacial, Sublative RF, or Microneedling can give your fibroblasts a little nudge to step-up collagen production in your skin and turn back the clock, just a little bit!
