Why Collagen Loss Impacts Your Appearance (and What to Do About It)

Collagen is a naturally-occurring protein in our bodies that serves as a building block for our skin, bones, muscles, and tendons. Our body depends on collagen for structure, which can also impact our face and overall appearance. As we age, our collagen levels by 1% to 2% each year after we reach age 30.

Collagen loss can be subtle, but there are signs to look out for. You might notice joint pain, weight gain, and lifeless hair. Your appearance may also begin to change with more fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and less volume in your face. Your skin may also start to heal more slowly and lose more of its elasticity.

Sugar and refined carbs are shown to damage collagen that can cause inflammation. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet could help slow and improve collagen loss and improve your overall health at the same time. Consuming more fish, berries, leafy greens, and beans are a few places to start.

Taking a high-quality multivitamin, including Vitamin C, could help with collagen production. Vitamin E is also shown to neutralize damaging free radicals and helps guard what comes into and out of the skin. Copper and Zinc also support collagen production and actives proteins essential for its synthesis. It’s always wise to get a check-up from your medical provider to look into any nutrient loss or recommended diet changes.

Dermal fillers are an affordable alternative to cosmetic surgery that can help with volume loss in your face and ease fine lines and wrinkles. However, Sculptra stimulates your body’s collagen to enhance your appearance and improve skin texture. Sculptra hit the market in 1999 and was approved by the FDA 5-years later.

Stress is shown to deplete collagen production by releasing more cortisol into our bodies, which increases blood pressure. Eventually, glucose and other nutrients are used up quickly as your body prepares for “fight or flight” mode due to the stress overload. However, collagen can also help improve stress. Collagen peptides are also shown to help reduce anxiety-related behavior. The result also leads to improved sleep with the ability to help you unwind and relax.

You may already know that smoking can negatively impact your appearance, but it also increases MMP levels, which can ultimately lead to collage loss and breakdown of elastic fibers. If you’re a regular smoker, it’s common to see vertical wrinkles around the mouth that are difficult to resolve. Injectable lip treatments can help restore the volume and smooth out wrinkles. However, Sculptra is not an appropriate treatment for lips. Instead, an aesthetic nurse may recommend Juvederm or Restylane.

Part of collagen loss is also due to genetics, which can’t be resolved. However, it can be improved with lifestyle changes and the help of affordable cosmetic enhancements. Just Aesthetic Nursing (JAN) are experienced and skilled aesthetic medical professionals that strive to deliver results with a noticeable impact. We offer the most advanced technologies and are committed to the highest expectations in safety and trust. If you’re ready to take the next step in enhancing your appearance, contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the best treatment plan for you.