The Tamesis
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies. It’s found in our muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments, but it’s probably best known for imparting firmness and elasticity to the skin. But as we age, our bodies lose protein (and produce less protein), so stimulating collagen is crucial to our overall skin health.
According to Jane Yoo, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Jane Yoo MD Dermatology, other benefits of collagen for skin include hydration, smooth texture, and better wound healing and scar recovery. Because our collagen production naturally declines as we age (we lose about 1% of collagen each year starting in our 20s, says Dr. Yoo), when we don’t stimulate the collagen in our skin, we can experience sagging skin, deep static wrinkles, loss of jawline and cheek contour, and thinning of surrounding skin.
“The most important thing you can do for your skin is to help it produce collagen, which will help prevent sagging, loss of elasticity and wrinkles,” agrees Carrie Gross, co-founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare. Carrie and her husband, Dr. Dennis Gross, founded his namesake brand 24 years ago. Of all the amazing products they’ve come out with over the years, there’s one that remains the ultimate cult favorite: the Universal Daily Peel. It’s won over several celebrities (Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Sidney Sweeney, Lily Aldridge and Chrissy Teigen, to name a few) and promises the same brightening effects as Dr. Gross’ acid peels.
“I think the reason it’s so popular is because it gives an immediate glow, but in the long term it promotes collagen formation, increases skin density, protects the skin barrier, and balances pH,” she explains. Is there any other way to boost collagen and get the same glow? Experts share their advice below.
Vitamin C is key
“This is an active that you should apply in the morning to protect your skin from free radicals in the environment and pollution,” explains Gross, adding that free radicals break down collagen fibers. “As we age, we produce less collagen, and the collagen we produce becomes weaker. Vitamin C helps produce stronger, better-quality collagen, and it also increases collagen volume, which is why you should consider using it starting in your 20s.” According to Gross, vitamin C is as essential to your skin care routine as SPF.
