Our body’s most abundant form of protein, collagen is responsible for giving our skin its youthful bounce. But that’s not its only role; it is also found in bones, muscles, joints and even our blood vessels.
As we age, our collagen production begins to decline, leading to the formulation of wrinkles and loss of elasticity in the skin. It further causes skin thinning and sagging in both men and women. Unfortunately, this means more visible cellulite; bonier hands, knobby-looking knees and a crepey looking chest in women.
Health-wise, a loss of collagen can result in the overall stiffness of joints and possibly joint pain. Also common is a loss of bone and muscle mass with weaker arteries that may lead to atherosclerosis.
Preserving and boosting collagen
Taking good care of our skin’s collagen supply is essential, and there are numerous ways to do it. Topically, wearing a good sunscreen with broad UV protection is essential because unprotected sun exposure is one of the fastest ways to disintegrate collagen. You can apply skincare products that contain antioxidants and collagen-boosting ingredients like vitamin C and retinol. Applying creams and serums containing collagen can also help in boosting collagen production along with moisturization. One should also invest in a series of collagen-encouraging treatments like dermal fillers, IPL, superficial peels and Dermapen. You can find all of these treatment’s as well as topical products from Dr Alek Nikolic, who is known to stay at the forefront of the cosmetic industry.
As far as boosting the collagen in your body is concerned, you can also do that by eating healthily. A balanced diet is always required to provide building blocks to the body for its own natural supply. Rich natural sources are amino acids found in meat, beans, eggs, fish and dairy products.
Drink up!
Another great source of nutrients required by our body for collagen production is bone broth. It contains bone marrow, minerals, collagen-building amino acids as well as cartilage, or you can consider a collagen supplement.
Conclusion
One of the most important things you can do for your skin as well as your overall health is to protect and boost the natural collagen supply of the body. This means making lifestyle changes like avoiding sun and smoking and by eating a healthy diet. Topically, collagen encouraging products can also be used to get supple skin.