Collagen is the part of the skin that is responsible for skin's elasticity. It makes the skin strong, and it keeps it supple. Since a little more than two-thirds of the dermis (layer of skin beneath the epidermis) is made up of collagen, a collagen deficiency will greatly affect the appearance of the skin, making the deficiency evident by the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin. As the skin ages, collagen in the skin loses its strength. There are, however, ways to boost collagen in your skin.
Step 1
Exercise and have a facial massage to improve blood circulation. Connective tissue supported by collagen thrives on the nutrients it gets from the blood. Dance, swim,or take up another type of sport to get your blood circulating. Find an experienced esthetician or massage therapist you can get a facial massage from twice a month to boost collagen in your skin.
Step 2
Eat foods that support collagen production. Include foods that contain beta-carotene in your diet. Some carotene foods are leafy green vegetables, carrots, sweet potatoes, green peppers, dandelion greens and kelp. Consume vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges, grapefruits, papayas, tomatoes, kiwi, potatoes, broccoli and cauliflower. Eat garlic to maintain good blood circulation. Also consume vitamin E-rich foods such as almonds, seeds, seafood and vegetable and wheat germ oil.
Step 3
Use skin-care products that contain vitamins A, C and E. Also use products that contain ingredients such as almond oil, olive oil, safflower oil and collagen. The collagen used in some skin products is obtained from cow placenta.
Step 4
Have rejuvenating acupuncture to boost collagen in your skin. The insertion of thin acupuncture needles in the face stimulates the circulation of blood to enhance collagen production.
References
- "Linda Page's Healthy Healing, All New 11th Edition"; Linda Page, 2001
- "Milady's Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians"; Joel Gerson, 1999
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