5 Ways to Boost Collagen

Jan 21, 2024 • Written by Dr. SAM BOWEN, ND

Chances are you have probably heard of collagen as it has become a popular topic within the world of skin health - and for good reason. 

But what exactly is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is found in various connective tissues such as skin, hair, nails, bone, muscles, cartilage, tendons, etc. There are multiple types of collagens that serve different purposes within the body, but generally speaking, collagen provides structure, strength, and support to these different tissues.

In respect to the skin, think of collagen as a type of scaffolding that creates structure to support skin elasticity, volume, hydration, and repair.

Due to internal and external factors, our collagen levels begin to decline over time leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, volume changes, and reduced hydration. 

Although these changes are part of the natural aging process, there are some key strategies that we can use to support the formation and maintenance of collagen within our skin.

Broad spectrum Sunscreen with SPF 30+  

UV rays from the sun can directly lead to collagen breakdown and is the number one cause of accelerated skin aging. Wearing a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 (even when it’s cloudy) is a preventative way to slow the degradation of collagen fibres. 

Topical Vitamin C + Retinoids

Vitamin C plays an important role in the natural collagen production process within the skin. It also acts as an anti-oxidant to help protect the skin from oxidative stress which can lead to breakdown of existing collagen. Retinoids is the umbrella term for various Vitamin A derivatives (ie: retinol). Retinoids have been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and protect existing fibres. 

Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a treatment that supports your body’s own ability to create new collagen fibres. The device used for this treatment contains sterilized microneedles that create tiny channels within the skin. These tiny channels lead to controlled inflammation which contributes to collagen growth and remodelling within the skin. 

Red Light Therapy

Red LED light therapy has been shown to penetrate the skin and stimulate the production of collagen fibres. Consistent use alongside other collagen supporting treatments may offer the best results.

Whole-Foods Diet

Consuming a diet rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc, selenium, beta-carotenes, and protein can provide our body with the foundations to support overall skin health and collagen formation. Additionally, limiting highly processed and sugar-rich foods reduces our exposure to Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). AGEs increase oxidative stress which can lead to collagen breakdown in the skin. 

As you can see, there are many options ranging from lifestyle changes to specific treatments that can be implemented to support our collagen. At Madrona, we are pleased to offer microneedling  as well as red LED light therapy alongside our facial acupuncture treatment as ways to help our patients maintain healthy collagen levels within their skin. 

To learn more about these treatments or to book an appointment with Dr. Bowen, please visit: https://madronahealth.janeapp.com/.