Collagen makes up more than 70% of the dermis, and it keeps your skin plump and supple. But according to skin surgeons, this protein degrades as you age, leading to wrinkles. But your skin doesn't have to give your age away. Taking these four steps can help protect collagen and keep you looking young.

How to Maintain Collagen 

1. Exercise and Eat Healthy

Start as early as possible to restore the skin's collagen layer by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Exercise and consuming antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables that increase oxygenation and blood supply to the protein can make the skin healthier. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Some good foods to include in your diet are berries, greens like kale and broccoli, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers. 

2. Use Sunscreen and Antioxidants 

Within two hours of exposure to UV rays from the sun, your body increases the production of MMP1, an enzyme that degrades collagen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can protect your skin from sun damage. 

Adding antioxidants like vitamin C will neutralize damaging free radicals and stop inflammation. Vitamin C not only prevents collagen loss but it also stimulates its growth.

3. Add Retinol to Your Skin Care Regimen

You can rev up the genes and cells involved in collagen production with retinoic acid and retinol. Retinol use can increase the levels of the body's precursors to collagen and reduce wrinkles. However, it can sometimes irritate the skin, so start by using it every other night before increasing your usage to every day. 

4. Get Professional Protection

Professional-grade skin care treatments include red light therapy that can safely boost collagen production, laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels that can limit your collagen loss. Your skin will need time to heal after these procedures, but using them can also improve wrinkles and skin elasticity with no side effects. 

Resurfacing lasers, which can activate collagen-producing cells, and hyaluronic acid fillers are also good choices to protect your skin from aging.

If you're noticing signs of aging and suspect it's because of collagen loss, reach out to Lauren A. Daman, M.D., PC in Hartford, CT. With superior expertise and personalized care, Dr. Daman performs a variety of medical and cosmetic treatments. If you're in need of anti-aging treatments or need a professional to help with scars and spider veins, count on Dr. Daman's highly skilled team to take care of your dermatological needs. The office ensures all patients feel calm and comfortable when they walk in the door. To schedule a consultation, call (860) 246-3533.