Collagen…why it’s important to start protecting it
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Although you can’t see collagen, it’s the essence of healthy skin. Collagen is what makes your complexion firm, plump and youthful. It is a protein that makes up about 75-80% of your dermis. Collagen fibers are like a bunch of columns placed closely together which hold up the top layer of skin. When you are young and healthy, these columns will be strong and straight so your skin will look smooth. When you pinch your cheek, the skin will feel spongy and full. When you are young and healthy, your skin will repair and make new collagen. However, environmental factors such as UV rays, smoking, pollution and stress produce free radicals in your skin. Free radicals start breaking down collagen fibers, causing the skin to become thin. Eventually the cells in your skin that make new collagen, stop producing collagen as quickly and you begin to get wrinkles and sagging skin. If you make an expression, you will create creases in your skin. When collagen is strong, your skin bounces right back. But if collagen is weak, repeated movements cause permanent creases.
How can you start protecting your collagen? It’s never too late….we suggest the following to care for your collagen…
- Use antioxidants and sunscreen to protect against free radial damage;
- Use a retinol;
- Use a collagen stimulator like peptides and growth factors; and
- Try a professional collagen stimulating procedure like the Laser Genesis facial, Venus Legacy treatment or Venus Viva treatment.
