Collagen Banking Is Your Ticket To Plumper, More Youthful Skin

Between the ages of 25 and 30, we start to lose around one percent of collagen every year as part of the natural aging process. The most abundant protein in the body, collagen is made by fibroblasts. “Its main function is to create and maintain the structures of the tissues that form the body, generating resistant, strong and flexible fibers known as collagen fibers,” explains aesthetic doctor Mar Mira, from the Madrid-based Clínica Mira + Cueto. Once production of collagen starts to naturally slow down as we get older, lines start to appear on the skin. Collagen banking is a buzzy new term for a focus on different beauty techniques that aim to help replenish and preserve collagen stores.

What is collagen banking?

As production of the protein begins to decline from the age of 25, experts suggest that we start preserving (or even attempting to boost) our collagen levels at as early a stage as possible. Collagen banking means taking a proactive approach: Stimulating the production of the protein before it declines. Think of it a bit like a savings plan that allows you to invest in your skin’s elasticity. The earlier you make efforts to preserve your collagen, the better.

5 ways to incorporate collagen banking into your beauty routine

1. Microneedling: Also known as collagen induction therapy, this cosmetic procedure involves using tiny needles to puncture the skin. The tiny wounds prompt the body to produce more collagen and elastin to heal the skin, which in turn can make it look fresher and more youthful.
2. Collagen supplements: Collagen is available as a supplement in powder, gel, and capsule form.
3. Collagen-based serums: The concentrated formulas make collagen-based serums an effective way to boost skin elasticity and firmness.
4. A vitamin C-rich diet: Vitamin C not only acts as an intermediary in collagen’s synthesis in the body, it is also said to enhance its effectiveness, reinforcing the protein’s anti-aging benefits. Incorporate plenty of dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, peppers, and blackcurrants (all good sources of vitamin C) into your diet.
5. Sun protection: Wear sunscreen every day in order to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, which damage the skin and deplete its collagen reserves.