Home LivingWellnessBeautyThis is the best age to start taking collagen, according to skincare expertsIt’s younger than you think!When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Home LivingWellnessBeautyThis is the best age to start taking collagen, according to skincare expertsIt’s younger than you think!When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
It’s younger than you think!
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: insta_photos / iStock)
(Image credit: insta_photos / iStock)
In today’s skincare world, ‘hyaluronic’ this and ‘micellar’ that means it can be difficult to know what a good quality skincare routine truly involves. Whether your latest purchase has been amoisturiser,eye creamorfacial cleansing brush, skincare trends seem to change without warning, leaving many people unsure of what to buy or where to start. There is however one skincare must have that has been around for yonks, and that’s collagen.
Oh before we begin, did you know that your workout could be affecting your skin? Have a readwhyfor more information!
What is collagen?
Collagen is a major component of our ligaments and connective tissue, as well as having wound healing and skin-boosting properties, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve overall skin texture and bring a youthful glow.
At what age does collagen production decrease?
Your body produces collagen from birth, with the levels gradually increasing until they peak when you are around 20-25 years old. Then, you begin to produce less and less collagen from 25 onwards, which is why wrinkles and fine lines might start to appear as you approach 30.
At the age of 50, the decrease in collagen levels accelerates further, marking the beginning of perimenopause. This is often when people consider adding collagen to their skincare routine or begin taking collagen supplements.
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Despite being a natural part of getting older, there are other lifestyle factors that can speed up the deterioration of the collagen and other proteins in your body. Exposure to UV rays (readwhy you should use sunscreen daily for healthier skinto find out more!), smoking, drinking alcohol, stress and even pollution in the air can all have a long-term impact on collagen depletion.
How does collagen depletion impact your skin?
While there are several effects of diminishing collagen production, the most noticeable, and often talked about, is the reduced elasticity of the skin.
Any scarring on the skin - from acne, injury or otherwise - also tends to become more apparent, as the body doesn’t have the same ability to repair.
How can you boost your collagen production?
Foods such as fish, chicken and bone broth all contain small amounts of collagen. There are also foods that contain ingredients that are necessary for collagen production but do not contain any collagen themselves. For example, citrus fruits and berries are all rich in Vitamin C which is essential for collagen production, while egg whites contain proline, one of the essential amino acids necessary for collagen production.
When should you start taking collagen?
The good news is that it is never too late to start taking collagen supplements. To gain the maximum benefit, you might want to consider taking collagen supplements in your 20s to minimise the subtle, early signs of ageing before they appear.
However, many people look to up their anti-ageing skincare routine throughout their 40s, 50s, and beyond to ensure collagen levels are maintained. This will help combat the more noticeable signs of ageing, helping to reduce the appearance of under eye creases and enhance the skin’s elasticity, along with stronger hair and nails.
Found that helpful? Read thisessential summer skincare routinein 3 simple steps.
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