Everyone desires healthy-looking, youthful skin that doesn't need to be hidden under layers of makeup. Collagen, abundantly produced in children, hence their beautifully firm and flawless skin, can help us achieve this state. Unfortunately, as we age, our body gradually loses the ability to produce collagen naturally, resulting in our grandparents having more sagging, dry, and wrinkled skin. However, we can partially prevent or at least delay skin aging. Isn't that wonderful news? Read on for recommendations on how to support collagen production.
What is collagen and how is it formed?
Collagen is a structural protein forming the basic framework of our skin, among other proteins. Its main function is to maintain the firmness, elasticity, and hydration of the skin, as well as the strength of bones, cartilages, tendons, ligaments, and other tissues. The body naturally creates collagen in a process called collagen synthesis, which requires amino acids obtained from food. The most important amino acids for collagen production are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which we can supply to the body especially through a diverse and balanced diet.
Genetics and hormonal changes significantly influence the level of collagen and its natural ability to renew. Women in menopause, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, when a large portion of this substance is directed towards the proper development of the baby or its natural nutrition, feel its decreased production the most. Doctors prove that smoking also significantly reduces the body's ability to produce collagen.
How to support collagen production?
Foods rich in the aforementioned amino acids, vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc contribute to collagen production. Such foods include leafy greens, especially green ones, citrus fruits, beans and other legumes, nuts, and seeds. Plenty of beneficial substances are found in fish, particularly sea fish, eggs, dairy products, and meat, most notably poultry.
However, not only diet plays a crucial role in collagen formation but also an overall emphasis on a healthy lifestyle. Adequate body hydration and quality sleep are equally important. Remember, it's not just about the length of sleep but also its quality and depth. Ideally, we should sleep without interruptions, in a dark and cooler room, covered with an anti-allergenic blanket. Regular physical activity and stress reduction also aid in collagen renewal. How to best cope with stress was addressed in one of our previous articles.
Natural collagen production in the body can be slowed down by sun rays, so it's necessary to adequately and effectively protect against UV radiation, not just in summer months. Collagen production can also be supported by suitable dietary supplements or cosmetic products that directly contain a significant dose of collagen.
Red Light as a Major Helper
Scientific studies show that red light is an excellent friend to collagen. Light therapy with this spectrum of light awakens the formation of structures for new collagen cells in our body. Using the peeler twice a day, ideally in the morning and evening, stimulates collagen production without the need to spend on expensive creams or other cosmetic products. Red light therapy, known as photobiomodulation, helps rejuvenate cells and supports collagen regeneration. Overall, you will see an improvement in skin structure after just a few uses. However, for long-term effects, it's necessary to persist and regularly perform this rejuvenating ritual. It's beneficial to combine red light with blue light, which our ritual peeler allows.
Beauty in Simplicity
Collagen is the fundamental building block of healthy and youthful skin. Studies show that consuming foods rich in collagen precursors, such as vitamin C and amino acids, positively stimulates collagen production in the body. Likewise, red light therapy, a popular alternative, is capable of supporting collagen formation and improving overall skin condition. Supporting collagen production through a balanced diet, healthy lifestyle, and red light therapy can help keep your skin supple, hydrated, and resistant to aging. These simple steps may be the key to beautiful and healthy skin, as well as to your self-confidence.
