Collagen is one of those buzz words you’ve probably heard your friends talk about over Sunday brunch. We’re always being told we need more of it, but what actually is collagen and what are the collagen benefits for skin? Well, dear reader, those are great questions!
What is Collagen?
Sure, we could throw a bunch of nerdy words at you but then you’d need a science degree to understand collagen, and we’re really not about that. In a nutshell, collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, making up about a third of all of our protein. So yes, it is kind of a big deal.
Think of collagen as the glue that holds everything together, making sure that our bones, muscles and tissue are all strong and maintain their structure. It is responsible for skin elasticity and is what makes sure our skin stays plump, juicy and all around wrinkle-free. Are you team collagen yet? Thought so.
The Importance of Collagen for Skin
Ready for a scary truth-bomb? After we turn 20, the collagen in our bodies decreases by 1% every year. This means skin that sags which is why we absolutely want to nip that in the bud. If firmness in your skin is starting to say adieu, it is likely due to a loss of collagen. A lack of collagen can also lead to brittle hair and nails that break at the drop of a hat. So, if you want firm skin and strong hair and nails (duh, who doesn’t?), you’re going to want to get on to collagen, stat.
How to Boost Collagen
So now that you’re fully on board with collagen, how do we boost it now that we’re not spring chickens anymore (we wish…)? With the help of some seriously good skincare ingredients and some lifestyle changes, you’ll soon be seeing those collagen benefits for the skin.
Skincare ingredients to look out for
Vitamin C is known to boost collagen production and slow ageing in its tracks. In fact, vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis which is why it should be your new bestie for plump skin. Get layering with your skin treats with a double dose of the Pomegranate Brightening Serum and Golden Anti-Aging Serum for a serious hit of vitamin C. Skin elasticity is just around the corner!
Retinol promotes cell turnover and is a fantastic antioxidant that boosts collagen levels. Just because it likes to show off, retinol also blocks enzymes that destroy collagen and stimulates fibroblasts which synthesise collagen. Our Encapsulated Retinol range waits to release all of the good stuff until it is deep in the skin so you’ll see even more benefits. Hey, we look out for you!
Collagen needs water to thrive. When you think of hydration in skincare, there should be one name on your lips: our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. It is a quick absorbing hydrator that aids in your body’s natural collagen production. Battle dehydration and reap those collagen producing blessings.
Extra ways to boost skin collagen
Say it with us: hydration, hydration, hydration. Make sure you’re getting your 2 litres of water each and every day for a moisture boost from the inside out. Water makes up 60% of collagen so no water, means no collagen.
As if you needed an excuse for a midday nap, collagen production goes into overdrive when we sleep so take this as your sign to hit the hay. While you’re catching up on some z’s, your body is hard at work replacing lost collagen.
Eating foods rich in collagen can, unsurprisingly, boost your collagen levels! Here are some foods to add to your grocery list; seafood (especially fatty fish like salmon or tuna), eggs, avocados, oranges and leafy greens.
Sun exposure damages skin cells which only further reduces the amount of collagen in our skin. Staying out of the sun as best you can while slathering on a strong sun protectant like our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen is your best chance for minimising collagen loss.
If you’re struggling with sagging skin and an overall collagen deficiency, chat to one of our skincare specialists so they can help you find the perfect products for you!