Maintaining collagen and finding ways to boost collagen production can make all of the difference when it comes to your skin. If your skincare goals include slowing down signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, Botox will temporarily freeze muscles and soften lines, but the true way to create healthy new skin is to focus on lifestyle and skincare steps that will get your collagen production moving.
Dr. Anthony Youn has graciously posted a video on Instagram that gives us insight into five pretty simple steps we can take to “boost collagen” after 40. The best part? These steps won’t require a huge commitment or big changes. But adding them into your routine can really help push the needle when it comes to how your skin will benefit and look.
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1. Eating More Protein
Protein consumption is so important that some doctors are recommending about 30 grams of protein per meal. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and these amino acids are also essential for collagen production. Aim to get most of your protein from whole foods like eggs, meat, fish, dairy, beans, and nuts.
2. Hydrolyzed Collagen Supplements
Hydrolyzed collagen has been broken down into smaller substances that are easier for the body to absorb. By taking this nutrient in supplement form, your body can then break it down into amino acids that are required for collagen production.
3. Sun Protection
UV light is one of the main causes of the breakdown of collagen in our skin. By simply committing to using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher each day, you can ward off many signs of aging and protect your skin (and its collagen!).
4. Apply Peptides and Retinol
Serums containing peptides and retinol have been shown to thicken the skin over time, which minimizes fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol, in particular, is one of the gold-standard ingredients in skincare that aids with faster skin cell turnover so it can even make a big difference if your skin is prone to acne.
5. Red Light Therapy
According to Dr. Youn, studies show that frequent use of red light therapy can increase the collagen and elastin in your skin. This light is absorbed by the mitochondria and can boost skin tissue repair and healing.
