Collagen (along with elastin) are the building blocks of healthy and more youthful-looking skin. As we age and gain so much more wisdom (look at the bright side, right?) we also lose collagen in our skin — it’s just a natural part of the process. Finding ways to boost collagen is a great way to make your skin look radiant, and doing so doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are products that you can buy right now that don’t cost an arm and a leg and can improve your skin’s texture and radiance. Start with these six cheap, natural products for boosting collagen over 40.
Foods Rich in Amino Acids and Vitamin C
Before you hit up Sephora or Ulta, take a trip to your local grocery store first and fill up your cart with foods that are rich in amino acids and vitamin C that can naturally help boost your body’s collagen production.
“Amino acids, such as Glycine, Proline, Hydroxyproline and Arginine, are the basic building blocks for collagen,” said Dr. Elaine F. Kung, a board-certified dermatologist based out of New York City and the founder of Future Bright Dermatology. “Vitamin C is an important co-factor in the production of stable collagen triple-helix conformation. For people over 40 who want to boost their bodies’ ability to form collagen, I suggest eating quality high-protein foods, such as eggs, bone broth, [and] soybeans for amino acids along with citrus fruits, berries, and leafy vegetables for vitamin C.”
Hydrolyzed Collagen Supplements
Hydrolyzed collagen supplements are rich in amino acids such as glycine and proline and can help boost collagen, according to Dr. Kung. “After digestion, it accumulates in the cartilage or skin and may help maintain stability or regeneration. Hydrolyzed collagen obtained from marine sources may be preferable because they are more easily absorbed,” Dr. Kung said.
A Cream with Retinol and Antioxidants
It’s time to turn our attention to skincare products that contain specific ingredients celebrated for their ability to boost collagen — namely, retinol and antioxidants.
“Retinols have been clinically and scientifically shown to increase the production of collagen over time,” Dr. Kung said. “There are body lotions formulated with retinol and antioxidants that we can use to boost collagen production on our bodies. For example, Versed Retinol Body Lotion and Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Skin Smoothing Body Treatment are good affordable options for people over 40 who are starting to see and feel skin thinning on their bodies.”
Sunscreen
There’s no way around this one: sunscreen is a crucial product for protecting your skin against the aging effects of UV rays and you can find SPF at every price point. “Because exposure to ultraviolet light may cause the breakdown of collagen, which in turn can contribute to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, it is important to start using sunscreen on a regular basis at an early age,” Said Tom Miller, at FitnessVolt. “The American Academy of Dermatology suggests selecting a sunscreen that protects against a broad range of wavelengths and has an SPF of at least 30.”
Sunglasses
They’re not just a fashion statement — a quality pair of sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection can help reduce the chances of UV rays breaking down the collagen in the thin and delicate skin around your eyes. If you’re the type who is always losing your sunglasses, grab this set of two stylish sunglasses and keep one in your car and one in your purse.
A Sleep Mask
Okay, so the actual sleep mask won’t create collagen in your skin, but sleeping enough at night can help big-time. Studies show that enough sleep helps rebuild collagen and relaxes the muscles in your face, to boot. Snag yourself a silk sleep mask if you’re having trouble getting your zzz’s.
