You’ve seen the word appear on lotions and potions promising to be the elixir of youth. It even appears as a supplement in vitamin and health aisles. So what is collagen? And why do we need it?
Collagen is the most abundant protein produced naturally by our bodies and responsible for structure (shape), bulk and support. There are at least 28 different types of collagen in the body but the main three are:
Type 1 makes up skin, nails, hair, bones, organs, blood vessels, and ligaments.
Type 2 is responsible for cartilage and joint construction.
Type 3 assists in the health of bone, cartilage, tendon and connective tissue health.
For all intents and purposes, we’ll talk about the skin. Collagen makes up 80% of the skin and is found in the dermis or middle layer. It helps smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, replaces dead skin cells and provides elasticity which allows the skin to snap back when pulled.
Collateral damage to collagen comes in the following forms.
Age: The ageing process is defined as the decline of collagen production is our bodies. Sadly, there’s no way to stop this; it is what it is.
Sun: UV rays are responsible for the break down of collagen production hence sun damaged skin forming premature wrinkles. (Read more about UV damages here)
Vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C is a vital component in the fight against free radicals caused by sun damage, stress and environmental pollution, and the strongest supporter of collagen production.
Smoking: Tobacco not only depletes the body of Vitamin C but the constant sucking or dragging motion of or lips or squinting when smoke gets in our eyes also cause premature fines lines.
Excess sugar: Ahh, that 3 pm slump. A high sugar intake is related to AGEs (Advanced glycation end products) which damages protein thereby creating fragility in collagen.
Bottom line, a high collagen count equals healthy skin.
So, how does one hold back the ravages of time using collagen-based treatments?
Langaro offers a host of treatments and products designed to increase collagen levels in your skin. Our trained therapists will guide you the options suited to your specific needs.
LED: LED or light therapy harnesses the power of light sending energy deep into skin tissue. Fibroblasts, the cells in connective tissue responsible for producing collagen, are woken up and reminded to do their job.
Microcurrent
Vitamin C-rich Serums and Creams: Fibroblasts are Vitamin C dependant to synthesise collagen thereby aiding repair to damaged connective tissues. The body doesn’t produce its own supply hence it being vital that we add this ingredient to our skincare regime. Topical applications of Vitamin C are 20% more effective than food consumption as it cannot be rubbed or washed off. Here we recommend one of our best selling brands, Bio-Therapeutic. From collagen-rich masques to serums and cream – even sunshade – there’s a BT facial and homecare range to ensure apply daily supply.
Call us for an appointment to maintain a healthy skin with a high collagen count. Your skin will love you.
