5 Things That Cause Collagen to Break Down More Rapidly

 

An abundance of healthy collagen is a major component in achieving that full, soft, radiant skin quality we all want. This is why people are using everything from skin products that contain collagen to dietary supplements in an effort to boost levels of the important molecule in their skin. The term “collagen” is derived from the Greek word “kólla,” meaning glue—which is a perfect description of the role it plays in the body. Our cells naturally create their own collagen. In fact, it’s the most plentiful protein in the body and is contained not only in the skin but in the bones, muscles, tendons, and other connective tissues as well. It’s responsible for providing strength, elasticity, and structure in these areas.

Usually, when wrinkles start to form, it’s because, among other things, collagen levels are dropping in the skin. As a person ages, their body produces less collagen. This lack of collagen results in the common signs of aging. Wrinkles, sagging skin that has lost its elasticity, and stiff joints are all signs that the body is producing less collagen.

Certain facial fillers such as Radiesse^® help to gradually stimulate collagen production in the underlying layers to rejuvenate and address this loss. Other fillers contain hyaluronic acid, which provides volume to temporarily replace lost collagen, but doesn’t stimulate its production in the same way. For this, Dr. Holly Happe of Dr. Happe Medical Aesthetics often recommends Restylane^® at her Newton-based practice, though there are many popular and effective options.

Time isn’t the only element that contributes to skin deterioration, however. There are other factors, including habits and lifestyle choices that you may not realize have a negative effect on your skin. Despite the wealth of rejuvenating treatments available, physicians like Dr. Happe typically recommend prevention as the most powerful anti-aging tool in the box.

Here are five of the most common reasons (aside from intrinsic aging) why collagen declines—as well as what you can do to prevent this loss:

1. Sunlight

Even though many people love the golden, glowing tan the sun gives you, if you’re concerned about skin aging, the worst thing you can do is spend hours outdoors—especially without proper skin protection. As you’re probably already aware, the UV radiation that we get from exposure to sunlight accelerates the destruction of collagen fibers in the skin. It also generates free radicals in the skin and results in the skin rebuilding itself abnormally, which is why people who spend a lot of time in the sun without protection end up with wrinkled and leathery skin. You can prevent this from occurring by limiting the amount of time you spend outside, especially when the sun’s rays are most intense, and wearing broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as much as possible.

2. Smoking

We all know that smoking is unhealthy for the lungs, but what a lot of people don’t realize is that it’s also terrible for the skin. The nicotine and toxins in cigarettes can severely damage the skin over time—even in very young people—by cutting off the flow of oxygen to the outer layers. Smoke not only slows down collagen generation, but also causes harm to both elastin and collagen.

3. Inflammatory Diets

Your diet plays a major role in the health and appearance of your skin, so taking supplements unfortunately can’t make up for unhealthy food choices. Inflammatory foods like sugar, simple carbohydrates, processed meats, and alcohol speed up the deterioration of collagen. Instead of these, choose foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support strong skin. Vitamin C, for example, is essential for encouraging collagen production.

4. Genetics

The genes you were born with have a major influence on your skin type and the number of wrinkles you’re likely to have. Although you can modify this a little with a healthy lifestyle and sun protection, if you want to know how your skin will look as it ages, take a look at your parents and grandparents to get a general idea.

5. Lack of Sleep

When you’re constantly sleep deprived, the lack of proper rest can often have negative emotional effects, increase the risk of serious diseases like hypertension, and take a toll on the skin as well. When you’re not getting enough restorative sleep, collagen production tends to decrease, and your complexion suffers.

Learn more about what you can to do combat the effects of any of these skin stressors by contacting Dr. Happe Medical Aesthetics. Call them at (617) 597-2600, or fill out a contact form to reach out online.