Collagen Holds the Key to Youthful Skin

Collagen type 1 is the structural foundation of youthful skin, but as we age, its loss can lead to wrinkles, sagging, and even volume loss. What if the secret to reversing the signs of aging isn’t in a miracle cream but in understanding how to manage the depletion of collagen. 

In my practice, I frequently visit with both men and women who seek to improve their appearance and reverse the visible signs of aging. One of the primary factors contributing to these visible signs of aging in our face and skin is the loss of collagen. 

Collagen is an essential protein that plays a large role in the structure and function of various tissues in the human body. It is the primary building block of your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Collagen is responsible for maintaining the strength, elasticity, and integrity of these tissues. 

As we age, the body’s ability to produce collagen decreases. This decline begins in our late twenties or early thirties and accelerates in our forties and beyond. By the age of fifty, it is estimated that collagen production drops by approximately 30 percent, and this reduction continues as we age. 

Although collagen loss is a natural part of aging, there are several treatments that can help minimize the effects of collagen loss in the skin and face. 

Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that involves using a device with fine needles to create micro injuries in the skin. These tiny punctures stimulate the body’s natural healing process, triggering the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. Microneedling can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles, and even out skin tone. Microneedling results are not immediate, as collagen remodeling takes time. A series of three to four sessions spaced four to six weeks apart are recommended to achieve optimal results. 

Co2 laser treatments are an effective method for stimulating collagen production in the skin. The CO2 laser emits thermal energy that penetrates the skin’s deeper layers. Co2 laser treatments typically require some downtime due to the intensity of the treatment, but are highly effective for treating skin concerns such as deep wrinkles, acne scars, and sun damage. Collagen production continues for up to six months after the treatment, which can lead to long-lasting skin improvements. 

Injectable collagen stimulators, such as Sculptra, are used to gradually increase collagen production in areas of the face that have lost volume over time. These injectables also enhance the skin structure and firmness gradually. Multiple sessions are recommended for optimal results and can be spaced four to eight weeks apart. Natural looking results can be seen within a few months and can last up to two years or longer. 

There are effective at-home options for stimulating collagen production.  Medical-grade skin care products, such as retinol creams and growth factor serums, can help to stimulate collagen production at the cellular level. For skin health, type 1 collagen oral supplements are the best option. Collagen type 1 can be found in hydrolyzed collagen, marine collagen, or bovine collagen. Medical grade skin care and oral collagen supplements can be great compliments to professional treatments, helping to maintain and enhance results.

Collagen is essential for maintaining the skin’s strength, elasticity, and youthful appearance. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to visible signs of aging. However, various treatments like microneedling, Co2 lasers, injectable collagen stimulators, oral collagen supplements, and medical grade skin care can effectively boost collagen production, leading to

healthier, more youthful skin for years to come. 

Call Riverside Medical Arts at 435-628-6466 for a complimentary consultation. To learn more about the services provided by Riverside Medical Arts, visit their website at riversidemedicalarts.com.