Collagen is a protein that helps keep the skin looking smooth. As we age collagen levels decrease, this starts from as early as our twenties! The skin loses its elasticity, and fine lines can start to form.
Our body produces collagen naturally, but as we get older, the amount and quality of collagen begins to decrease.
We are going to share some ways you can help stimulate collagen production. Starting with vitamins of course!
1. Vitamins
There are certain key vitamins that can help boost collagen production to keep your skin supple and youthful and your joints strong and healthy.
Vitamins A,C & E are a few of our favourite vitamins to take to increase collagen production. Which is why we have included them in all of our supplements. So how do they work?
Vitamin A- Vit A can be found naturally in foods such as egg yolks, cheese, cod liver oil, and organ meats. It’s known as the anti-ageing nutrient because it activates genes that trigger collagen synthesis. It can also clear up acne and various skin irritations, because it helps to regulate oil production on the outer and the inner skin of the body.
Vitamins C- Vit C is the most important vitamin to help boost collagen production. Vitamin C is a complex antioxidant which you need to consume on a daily basis if you want to have a youthful and healthy body. Some rich sources of vitamin C come from fruits and vegetables, including peppers, leafy Greens, berries and kale.
Vitamin E- Vit E is a fat-soluble nutrient found in foods such as avocados, extra Virgin olive oil, sunflower seeds, and almonds. It’s also one of the most important antioxidant vitamins for the skin, helping to prevent wrinkles and retain youthful and hydrated skin.
Receiving vitamins through your diet is key. If you do struggle in todays busy lifestyle to do this then a skin supplement is the perfect way to ensure you still get regular daily vitamins.
2. Keep it moving!
Exercise not only helps maintain the tone of muscles that hold our skin up, but it also can slow the ageing process by lowering stress. Getting out in to the fresh air for a walk or taking a class at the gym can help benefit our minds and body in so many ways. This year how about taking up a new fitness challenge with friends or joining an exercise class? Your skin will love you for it!
3. Sleep Zzz
We sometimes forget how important sleep is for every aspect of our health. We all know how terrible we feel after a bad nights sleep and this can often be obvious in our face- particularly around our eyes. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule of around 8 hours of sleep per night can help with collagen renewal, reduce stress and decrease the signs of ageing. Try creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Take a shower or bath, do your skin care routine, light a candle and grab a good book to get you ready for a restful nights sleep.
4. Dry January anyone?
We don't want to be a buzz kill but alcohol does nothing but harm your skin in the long term. Alcohol decreases the skin’s ability to produce collagen and it disrupts its natural antioxidant defence system. People that consume eight or more units of alcohol per week are more likely to have lines and wrinkles. Make mine a water- shaken, not stirred.
5. Sunscreen!
A little louder for those in the back...Sunscreen! We had to end the blog on this note. SPF is vital for preventing serious skin conditions, but it also keeps skin young and fresh. UV exposure can lead to the breakdown of collagen, which can then lead to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Top tips for your SPF-
- Always buy sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher
- Apply first thing in the morning after your skincare routine
- Sunscreen only lasts on average around 2 hours so be sure to reapply throughout the day.
- Always apply to your face, neck, chest, and the back of your hands. The skin in these areas is thinner so can show the signs of ageing more readily.
If you enjoyed our blog, please share it with your friends, and invite them to join our Skin Wellness Club.