When talking about any cosmetic or skin rejuvenating treatment available, the word collagen is brought up in nearly every conversation. This protein is the most abundant protein in the human body and is critical to great skin. As it has many benefits, people are trying to get as much of it as they can in a wide variety of ways — from dermal filler injections to even putting it in their coffee.
Not only is collagen the most abundant protein in the human body, but it is also what holds the body together. It is found in many types of tissues, like the bones and connective tissue, and helps to give the body structure and shape.
Collagen also provides strength and structure to skin cells. When the body slows down the production of this protein around the age of 35, the skin loses its support, which leads to sagging, creases and wrinkles. It allows the skin to flex and stretch, which helps prevent stretch marks and scarring
Besides aging, other factors that impact collagen production include prolonged and frequent sun exposure, environmental pollutants and the use of tobacco products.
“Hormonal fluctuations brought on by menopause also impact collagen production, wreaking havoc on the skin,” Mayli Davis, M.D, said.
Davis is a Colleyville, Texas, ophthalmologist who provides cosmetic and skin rejuvenating treatments. Nearly all the services Davis offers involve collagen, whether they replace lost collagen or encourage the body to ramp up collagen production.
“Collagen is absolutely vital for great skin,” Davis said.
When collagen production is amplified, the skin is tightened naturally. This gives patients a younger-looking appearance, according to Davis. Treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels and DermaPen slough off the outer layers of the skin, and in defense, the body floods the area with collagen and other healing proteins. These proteins leave the skin tighter, with a new structure and, more importantly, the ability to stretch and flex, Davis said.
Collagen production can also be boosted by a diet rich in leafy greens, berries and citrus fruits. Reducing sugar intake is another way to protect collagen and elastin production, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Collagen is also available in a supplement form, and one of the new ways people are getting their collagen is by mixing it in with their morning cup of coffee. While that is a unique way to take in this important skin component, Davis said dietary collagen supplements will take a long time to benefit the skin, without any scientific evidence of proven benefit. The most direct way to improve collagen production is to have a collagen skin-boosting treatment.
Collagen isn’t the only important thing when it comes to great skin. Elastin is another very important protein because it gives the skin the ability to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Fibrillin is another vital protein and assists the skin in stretching and flexibility.
Hyaluronic acid is another essential element for great skin. It is found in nearly every cell of the body, but the majority of it is found in the layers of the skin. Hyaluronic acid helps to attract the water that cells need to keep their shape.
“When skin cells are plumped up, it makes a visible difference in the appearance of the skin,” David said.
When cells are withered, skin looks dull and aged, compared to the full and bright appearance of skin treated with hyaluronic acid.
