Collagen is one of the most common proteins in the body and is found in various structures. The body can utilize various nutrients to provide the amino acids necessary for collagen production and to build these proteins. As we age, the body's collagen production decreases, reducing the positive effects associated with sufficient collagen, such as plump, supple, and vibrant skin . Therefore, to avoid the effects of low collagen levels, you can incorporate collagen storage into your skincare routine now. We've answered the questions "What is collagen storage?" and "How can collagen be stored?" for you.
What is collagen storage?
Collagen, the main structural component of connective tissues and a type of protein, is a naturally occurring component in the body. It forms structures such as skin and cartilage. It provides skin elasticity by working to keep skin cells firm, flexible, and regenerating them. By increasing moisture levels, it delays the signs of aging. In addition to all these effects, it can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. In the case of collagen deficiency, all these positive effects reverse: the skin loses its elasticity, vitality, and wounds take longer to heal.
This naturally occurring component in our bodies begins to decrease proportionally with age. Starting at age 25, we lose 1% of our collagen each year. As we age, decreased collagen production causes the skin to become dull, prone to wrinkles, and looser. This rate can increase to approximately 2% per year over time, and women can lose up to 30% of their total collagen in the first five years of menopause. To prevent the negative effects of collagen deficiency in later years, incorporating collagen replenishment into your skincare routine can be helpful.
Collagen storage is a method based on increasing collagen production in your 20s and early 30s. Think of it like a banking system; if we can increase our collagen levels during the years when our bodies can produce collagen more easily, this reserve will be useful when we start showing signs of aging. Collagen storage is a process focused on increasing collagen levels as much as possible now, rather than trying to raise them only when we need them.
Ways to increase collagen production in your skin
According to this understanding, the main goal is to build the strongest possible skin foundation during the years when skin cells are most active and effective. The earlier the collagen storage process begins, the less damage can occur later, because experts believe that preventing a condition is more effective than treating it. Therefore, creating a "collagen bank" before the effects of aging appear will help you protect and increase your resources, achieving lasting results. This way, even when collagen reserves begin to dwindle, you can keep your skin looking firm, plump, and youthful for longer.
1. Micro-needling
Also known as collagen induction therapy, this cosmetic procedure uses tiny needles to puncture the skin. These small wounds stimulate the body to produce more collagen and elastin, healing the skin. This process leaves the skin looking fresher and younger.
2. Collagen supplements
Collagen supplements can be in powder, gel, and capsule form. Using collagen-based serums and concentrate formulas is also an effective way to increase skin elasticity and firmness.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage and is essential for collagen formation. You can add plenty of vitamin C-rich foods to your diet, such as dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and peppers. You can also use vitamin C-containing skin serums as an external supplement.
4. Protect yourself from the sun .
Use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, which damage the skin and deplete collagen reserves. UV rays can cause collagen breakdown even on cloudy days. Therefore, regularly using products with SPF is both an anti-aging measure and a collagen-boosting measure.
5. Use retinoids.
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that stimulate fibroblasts, the collagen-producing cells in your skin, thereby increasing collagen production. Creams containing retinoids promise firmer and younger-looking skin with regular use thanks to their cell-renewing effects in skincare.
6. LED light therapy
LED light therapies have different color settings you can choose from to treat many different skin problems. Red light, used for skin problems such as aging, not only protects existing collagen but also encourages the formation of new collagen.
Since collagen production decreases with age, the measures listed above will help stimulate collagen production and, if applied regularly, improve overall skin health in the long term and delay the signs of aging. It is important to remember that certain lifestyle factors, such as excessive sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet, can accelerate the decline in collagen levels.