Collagen is the main protein in the skin that gives it its volume, and elastin gives it its elasticity. People can get these proteins from certain foods, but the body also produces them naturally. They help to keep the body together, maintaining its strength and structure.
To keep a youthful appearance and reduce signs of aging, men and women need to ensure that the production of these proteins stays on top. Let us help you learn more about collagen and elastin and the best ways to keep the production going!
What Happens to Collagen as People Age?
As individuals age, the epidermis begins to thin out, even with the cell layer number remaining the same. Collagen and elastin fibers also become thinner and looser as people age, which causes the skin to lose elasticity. The process is natural, and women and men in their mid to late 20s begin to lose about one to 1.5 percent of collagen per year, or an average of 10 percent per decade.
This reduction creates the development of facial folds, as there is not enough protein to hold things together. The skin’s exfoliation process also drops starting with the 20s, which means it takes longer for new skin cells to come to the surface.
Sunlight exposure, as beautiful as it may seem when it gives a sun-kissed look, also affects skin aging. UV light from the sun can break down the collagen fibers, thinning the layers and leading to facial creases in the skin.
Top Ways to Improve Collagen Content and Elastin
While collagen and elastin loss are natural, it doesn’t mean there is nothing that can be done about it. There are numerous treatment options to boost the production of elastin and collagen that increase skin quality, including:
1. Laser Resurfacing Treatments
Laser resurfacing treatments, such as RED Light Collagen Therapy or Pelleve Skin Tightening, have become very advanced and are a standard solution for reducing signs of aging. The gentle heat emitted by the laser creates micro-wounds in the skin, which start the body’s natural healing process. Exfoliation activates once more, and the dead layers on the epidermis will shed off, making way for new and healthy skin cells.
As the skin’s healing response is triggered, new collagen and elastin fibers will also form in the area to heal the micro-wounds. This helps the skin become plumper, tighter, and with fewer facial creases. Results will only improve within the next few months, offering a more youthful look.
2. Injectable Treatments
Fillers have proven to be a convenient and quick alternative for those who wish for more immediate results. Hyaluronic acid fillers like JUVÉDERM®, for instance, can immediately restore lost volume and offer the skin a tighter, smoother look. The hyaluronic acid in the filler is also connected to a new production of collagen, improving one’s features.
For longer-term results, injectables like RADIESSE® have also become popular. The gel-like formula includes calcium-based microspheres that add volume and can improve collagen and elastin for a year or more.
3. Medical-Grade Skincare
The skin needs the proper topical nourishments to produce collagen and obtain a youthful, glowing look naturally. Medical-grade skincare products are more recommended than over-the-counter (OTC) products, as they have more active agents and reach deeper inside the skin. The skincare treatments are also customizable so that Dermacare can select the right product for each patient’s needs.
Look Younger With Dermacare!
Collagen and elastin loss is expected with age, as this is the body’s natural process. That said, it doesn’t mean the lost tissue needs to stay lost. With the proper treatment, patients can enhance their elastin and collagen levels. Contact Dermacare Medical Aesthetics and set up an appointment for the appropriate treatment.
For more information about the best treatments to address elastin and collagen loss, you can contact Dermacare Medical Aesthetics at 858-230-8040. We have practices in San Diego, Carlsbad, and San Juan Capistrano, where we can address your concerns. You can also fill out our online contact form, and we will get in touch with you in a short time!