When we think of collagen, we think of youth. We are seeing more collagen supplements, collagen topicals and even collagen drinks. Keep reading to learn more about what collagen is and how it keeps us looking youthful.
What is Collagen?
The Greek word for collagen is “koila”, which means “glue”. Collagen is a protein that is found in the body that basically holds everything together. Collagen provides structure to the skin and helps our blood clot. It is like the scaffolding of bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments.
Starting in our mid-20’s, our bodies produces one percent less collagen in the skin every year. This causes our skin to become thinner and more fragile.
Benefits of Collagen
People who choose to take collagen supplements are usually trying to improve both their appearance and overall health. Since we continue to lose collagen as we age, supplementing can reduce the effects of aging. Supplements can help by adding moisture to the skin, reducing wrinkles and improving elasticity. Elasticity is what keeps the skin looking and feeling tight. A few of the many benefits of collagen include:
- improved skin health
- protects against fine lines and wrinkles
- better joint health
- stronger bones
- increase muscle mass
Collagen products are sold in both oral and topical forms. The oral forms of collagen are more effective because certain amino acids are able to signal the body to increase collagen production. Topical collagen does not signal the same changes as the molecule is too large to penetrate the skin.
Treatments That Stimulate Collagen:
- Sculptra and other fillers
- skin rejuvenation
- AquaGold
- AccuTIte
- CO2 laser resurfacing
Collagen has many positive benefits and helps keep our skin, joints and bones stay healthy as we age. We offer a variety of products and treatments that stimulate collagen production and leave us with more youthful, beautiful skin.
To learn more about collagen-treatments that stimulate collagen production, please contact our office at (801)776-2220.