COLLAGEN [FOR SKIN]

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Most of you know I have been a fan and avid advocate of collagen supplementation for quite a few years now (just scroll back far enough!). I’m a firm believer that what you put in your body reflects outward- food, drink, environment and even emotions; all have the ability to either positively (or negatively) impact physical signs of aging.

The word “collagen,” for most, is immediately associated with skin but actually collagen is a structural element found in all connective tissues. And there are different types of collagens found in these different tissues (I.e. Type 1 and Type 3 are the main types found in the skin). In the skin, collagen is found in the deepest layer of the dermis. As we age, there is a decreased/slowed production (and increased breakdown) of collagen. Collagen is what keeps the skin firm; this decrease is what is responsible for the appearance of fine lines and sagging. You may even notice a more marked appearance of cellulite as you get older due to the thinning of the dermal layer of skin.

Many gimmicky topical collagen products have been marketed to those wanting to reverse these aforementioned sings of physical aging but the reality is, topical collagen does not have an effect on the body’s collagen stores and does not absorb well on the skin.

So what about drinking all the popular collagen peptide powders and bone broths? Well, remember I mentioned how collagen is important in many different tissues In the body? This includes the lining of the organs of the digestive tract; by supporting a healthy gut lining there is improved absorption of nutrients available to the skin and hair, a more balanced microbiome and inflammation response— all of which indirectly support healthier collagen

As far as drinking collagen peptides, the studies are unclear on whether consumption of collagen peptides actually reach the skin. Until recently, not many products could claim their collagen actually reached the skin. This collagen is formulated with sustainable wild caught fish collagen that is bioavailable (absorbed by the body) and shown to support skin. It is one of the few that I, personally, have seen VISIBLE differences with taking it and in a short time too (less than 1 month). I was skeptical of the drastic skin results that were touted but still decided to take it replace my existing collagen powder, as such I do not have before/after photos of myself but I wish I did! Since starting, I notice a visible smoothing of my skin all over (most notably cheeks and legs!) I have also reduced the components of my topical skincare regimen.

Of course, taking collagen is one thing you can do but what matters most are the daily measures that can be taken to ensure we are not contributing to an accelerated breakdown of collagen (which is why my mantra is: LIFESTYLE IS MY SKINCARE!)

Some tips to get you started:

  • balanced diet with antioxidant and mineral-rich foods, fatty acids, protein (*protein is KEY because collagen is made up of proteins!)

  • reducing refined and processed foods

  • reducing sugar intake

  • skin barrier supportive skincare practices

  • taking care of gut health

  • improving quantity and quality of sleep (early bedtime, no alcohol before bed because both sleeping after midnight and alcohol reduce the quality of sleep)

  • managing effects of stress (cortisol, the stress hormone, accelerates the breakdown of collagen)

  • keeping hormones balanced (keep in mind, fluctuations are normal with age but imbalanced hormones can speed up the process of collagen breakdown)

  • reduction of exposure to environmental chemicals (this can contribute to external inflammation on the skin leading to accelerated breakdown of collagen but also contribute to hormone imbalances) Read more to learn why and how to support your body’s innate detoxification.

Essentially, it boils down to minimizing sources of internal and external inflammation because inflammation accelerates the breakdown of collagen and aging. Have you heard of the term “inflammaging?” That’s where it comes from; the notion of inflammation speeding up aging.

Want to learn more about how to support your skin/skin concerns from a mental, emotional and physical standpoint? Let’s schedule a 15 min chat!