Total collagen decreases about 1% per year starting in your mid to late 20’s (see diagram above). In addition, aging changes the collagen structure. In younger skin, collagen is more organized. As we get older, not only does the number of collagen fibers go down, but they become disorganized bundles. As a result, skin loses its thickness and elasticity which causes the skin to form wrinkles easily and begin to sag.
If we want to slow down and reverse skin aging, and since collagen is a major constituent of the skin, we need to focus on how we can stimulate collagen production. Since collagen can NOT be absorbed through the skin as the molecules are too large, applying products that claim to have collagen in them are NOT effective.
So how do we increase the collagen in our skin?
I would like to offer you the following five solutions:
- The best way and most effective way to do this is via an advanced, revolutionary technology called Ultherapy which uses an ultrasound to naturally stimulate your own body’s collagen production in a period of 3-4 months with just ONE treatment. The treatment lasts for up to two years and you can go back to work the next day as there is no downtime. The treatment helps to firm and lift the sagging skin around the eyes, face, chin, and neck.
- If you are not ready do an Ultherapy treatment, we also offer an excellent serum by Skinmedica called TNS Essential Serum which has very important ingredients necessary to stimulate collagen production and prevent it’s degradation. Remember, you can not just apply topical collagen, you have to apply products that contain ingredients to stimulate collagen production which is a very complex process. TNS Serum contains 110 growth factors, peptides, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and much more including antioxidants from green tea extract to create an environment perfect for collagen synthesis.
- Exercise or exfoliate the skin with prescription strength Retin-A (tretinoin) which also helps to stimulate collagen production. Some people do not like this method as it causes excessive drying of the skin initially.
- Eat foods rich in proteins (peanuts, soy, eggs, beef, salmon, chicken) and Vitamin C (oranges, kiwis, and green leafy vegetables) to promote the production of collagen.
- Lastly, don’t forget to preserve the collagen you currently have by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30.
About the Author:
Dr. Sunanda Chugh is the Founder and Medical Director of Anand Medical Spa and has been practicing in NYC since 2004. She is a graduate of Cornell University and has completed her training at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital/Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Chugh has worked and trained with top Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists in NYC. Her special interest on the effect of the aging process on the face and body inspired her to specialize in Aesthetic Medicine.