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For a firmer and youthful you..
I bet a thousand bucks that you must have heard about the word “collagen” in all the anti-aging skincare products, but have you ever wondered what exactly it is?
We all want firm, smooth, and plump skin, and collagen is what makes it happen. The more collagen in our skin, the firmer and younger it looks. Many skincare brands offer products that claim to boost collagen production, but does it work as it claims? You may never know..
Skincare experts at Matra are here to provide you with all the basic information you need to know about this “essential protein” that helps your skin fight the signs of aging.
Let’s get familiar with the layers of our skin
Apart from being the largest organ of the body, our skin performs a lot of functions. It acts as a protective barrier that protects against harmful UV rays, prevents loss of moisture, and maintains body temperature.
All these functions are performed by the “three” layers of the skin:
The outermost layer is called the ‘epidermis’. It is a thin layer that defends the body against any harm.
The middle layer is called the ‘dermis’. It contains the most important – collagen and elastin which are responsible for making your skin plump.
The deepest layer is called the ‘hypodermis’, where fat and a few collagen cells are present. It keeps the internal organs warm and protected.
What exactly is Collagen?
Our skin has a lot of essential proteins, and collagen makes around 25% to 35% of the whole protein content in our body. It holds the body tissues, provides cushioning to the joints, and affects how your hair looks.
The level of collagen starts decreasing when you are in your 20s. The skin starts sagging and wrinkles start setting in. Signs of aging like dry and dehydrated skin, fine lines and wrinkles, sagging, and the loss of skin elasticity start to appear. All these signs indicate that your skin is producing less collagen.
Can I boost the production of collagen in my skin?
Many experts recommend using topicals that boost the level of production. Plenty of skincare brands incorporate these actives into their products that increase the levels.
Look for the following ingredients in anti-aging products:
Vitamin C: Vitamin C Serum consisting of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 
supports the generation of collagen. It protects the skin from external and environmental aggressors that may break down the existing collagen levels. It also smoothens the texture and gives a glow to your skin.
Retinol: Retinol is one of the proven ingredients that address all the concerns related to anti-aging. The topical application increases the cell turnover, repairs fine lines and wrinkles, and treats dark spots. It also treats hyperpigmentation caused by decreased collagen levels. You must start with a small dosage first and increase the frequency once your skin adjusts.
AHAs and BHAs: Chemical exfoliants like Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta-hydroxy Acids (BHAs) dissolve the glue that holds the dead skin cells. Regular application of these exfoliants helps the skin to produce more collagen and skin cells.
Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic Acid, an active ingredient used in many skincare products like serums, masks and creams. It repairs dry and dehydrated skin
by locking in moisture from the environment. It also induces the skin to produce more collagen and skin cells.
Peptides: Peptides (amino acids), also called the building blocks of protein, are present in every cell and tissue. They act as a signaling mechanism which indicates that the body produces more collagen and elastin fibers.
However, many professional treatments and procedures performed by experienced dermatologists encourage the production of collagen in your skin. These include fillers, micro-needling, ultrasounds, chemical peels, botox, and lasers.
There are plenty of supplements that claim to boost the level but, the reviews are mixed. The stomach acids break these supplements. This makes them unable to reach the skin effectively.
How not to lose collagen?
As aging is an irreversible process, you cannot completely stop the decreasing level of collagen, but you can surely slow down the process. Follow the below mentioned steps and retain that youthful glow!!
- Keep yourself hydrated
- Avoid smoking
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Limit exposure to harmful UV Rays of the sun
- Avoid use of heavy alcohol
- Always eat a healthy and nutritious diet
- Reduce high intake of sugar
