Advancements in Medicine, Health

Methods to Increase Collagen Production

Rachel Studebaker
Tanya Manoni
December 13, 2022

Multiple options to boost collagen content means a youthful complexion can be achieved even at an older age.

Understanding Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for 30% of protein content, and is responsible for providing structure and strength to the skin.

Over time, collagen production slows down and existing collagen begins to degrade. A drop in collagen levels can result in wrinkles, fine lines, and a dull complexion. Fortunately, options exist to ignite new collagen production and improve your complexion for years to come.

Hormones

Estrogen helps prevent your skin from aging, but its levels begin to deplete after menopause. Hormone replacement therapy can restore estrogen to the body and improve the elasticity and thickness of skin. This treatment can be administered via pill, patch, or topically.

Retinol and Peptides

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that speeds up skin cell turnover and brightens the complexion. It’s been praised for its anti-aging benefits and is widely regarded as a skincare must-have.

Peptides are naturally occurring amino acids that help create proteins such as collagen. Oral collagen supplements or peptide skincare products can administer peptides to strengthen the skin’s barrier.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses tiny, sterilized needles to prick the skin and prompt the generation of collagen and skin tissue. This process can treat wrinkles and fine lines, as well as dark spots and scars.

An Expert Weighs In

“I love empowering patients with effective clinical solutions they can do on their own. I always approach the body from a functional approach, and with skin and collagen production, my approach is the same. A bovine-sourced collagen supplement has been clinically shown to upregulate collagen, resulting in improved skin elasticity and even improved cellulite appearance. As for medications, there is so much we can do without a prescription thanks to medical-grade skincare like our line, Designer+Cosmeceuticals. My favorite is combining physical with chemical. Buy a high-quality microneedling device and derm roll, and then layer an antioxidant serum like D+C Prevent+, which combines three different antioxidants to fight collagen destroyers and brighten the skin’s appearance. Then apply a retinol cream like D+C Correct Night Cream. Repeat often, and your friends will start to notice your tighter, brighter glow!”