Have you ever wondered why so many of today’s beauty products are focused on collagen and elastin? If so, you’re going to want to keep reading. Today, we’re taking a closer look at skincare that goes beyond skin deep. Here’s what you need to know:
The Building Blocks of Skin: Why Collagen and Elastin Matter:
In the simplest terms, collagen and elastin are the foundational fibers that make up the skin, and in particular the connective tissues. Collagen is a protein substance estimated to compose 70% of the skin’s dermis layer, and is what gives the skin a bouncy, smooth, and supple texture. It’s also responsible for wound healing in the event of an injury. Similarly, elastin is a protein fiber found in smaller amounts, but it is equally important as it’s what gives the skin its natural elasticity.
Both collagen and elastin are produced naturally by the body. However, as we age, production of new collagen declines and the skin’s existing stores can become depleted, contributing to the appearance of concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loose skin. The good news is that there are things you can do to promote collagen synthesis and prevent premature breakdown in the skin. Here is what we recommend:
How to Support Your Skin’s Collagen and Elastin:
● Tip #1: Look for ingredients that encourage rejuvenation – Some key ingredients known to boost collagen production in the skin include Vitamin C, retinol, bakuchiol, peptides, alpha-hydroxy acids, and niacinamide. For best results, be sure to incorporate these into your routine as consistently as possible.
● Tip #2: Protect the skin against external aggressors – Environmental factors, such as UV rays from the sun and exposure to free radicals, do a lot to exacerbate the breakdown of collagen and elastin and accelerate the aging process. To prevent this from happening, daily application of sun protection is a must ALL YEAR ROUND. You may also want to include more antioxidants in your skincare to neutralize free radical activity and combat future damage like Vitamin C & E.
● Tip #3: Treat your skin to some extra TLC – In addition to applying topical products that boost collagen and elastin, it can also be helpful to add in advanced modalities in the form of professional treatment or an at-home device. For example, red light LED, microcurrent, and mild chemical peels, are all options that have been shown to have a positive impact and encourage rejuvenation at the cellular level.
The Building Blocks of Skin: Why Collagen and Elastin Matter:
In the simplest terms, collagen and elastin are the foundational fibers that make up the skin, and in particular the connective tissues. Collagen is a protein substance estimated to compose 70% of the skin’s dermis layer, and is what gives the skin a bouncy, smooth, and supple texture. It’s also responsible for wound healing in the event of an injury. Similarly, elastin is a protein fiber found in smaller amounts, but it is equally important as it’s what gives the skin its natural elasticity.
Both collagen and elastin are produced naturally by the body. However, as we age, production of new collagen declines and the skin’s existing stores can become depleted, contributing to the appearance of concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loose skin. The good news is that there are things you can do to promote collagen synthesis and prevent premature breakdown in the skin. Here is what we recommend:
How to Support Your Skin’s Collagen and Elastin:
● Tip #1: Look for ingredients that encourage rejuvenation – Some key ingredients known to boost collagen production in the skin include Vitamin C, retinol, bakuchiol, peptides, alpha-hydroxy acids, and niacinamide. For best results, be sure to incorporate these into your routine as consistently as possible.
● Tip #2: Protect the skin against external aggressors – Environmental factors, such as UV rays from the sun and exposure to free radicals, do a lot to exacerbate the breakdown of collagen and elastin and accelerate the aging process. To prevent this from happening, daily application of sun protection is a must ALL YEAR ROUND. You may also want to include more antioxidants in your skincare to neutralize free radical activity and combat future damage like Vitamin C & E.
● Tip #3: Treat your skin to some extra TLC – In addition to applying topical products that boost collagen and elastin, it can also be helpful to add in advanced modalities in the form of professional treatment or an at-home device. For example, red light LED, microcurrent, and mild chemical peels, are all options that have been shown to have a positive impact and encourage rejuvenation at the cellular level.