What happens to skin as it ages? One of the core reasons you begin to see lines, wrinkles, laxity and dull skin is that the production of collagen decreases over time. Collagen production slows down because of a number of factors, such as smoking, lifestyle, stress, and others. If we don’t stimulate collagen production as we get older, our skin starts to look older, duller, and lined–the skin is on a downward slope. How does skin care fit into all of this?
Where does skincare fit in when it comes to stimulating collagen production?
Skincare products come in many different forms, many of which say, “rejuvenating,” “moisturizing,” or something similar. And many products are quite expensive. But no matter what the price tag, if you’re not using a product that gets down to the cellular level and triggering the cells that boost collagen production, you are wasting your time and money.
Skincare products can absolutely turn on the collagen “engine” and rebuild collagen growth over time. The entire reason for putting skincare products on your face is to get your cells to produce collagen again. When I formulated the Trifecta, I wanted to develop a product that stimulated collagen for the long run, a product that was easy enough to use every day to reverse collagen loss over time.
What ingredients in skincare products boost collagen production?
The three basic components that effectively stimulate collagen production at the cellular level include the following:
1. RETINOIDS: RETIN-A OR RETINOL
These vitamin A derivatives do wonderful things for the skin. One of the most important things they do for the skin is stimulate an increase in collagen production.
2. VITAMIN C
In addition to the antioxidant qualities that Vitamin C has, it also stimulates collagen production. Vitamin C is a very important component of proper skincare products. Formulated properly in the right skincare products, both Vitamin C and retinoids can be used together, every day, without causing a negative effect, such as inflammation or sensitivity of the skin.
3. GROWTH FACTORS
Growth factors are another category of collagen stimulants. A particularly effective growth factor we use in the Trifecta is derived from the hibiscus plant. This growth factors stimulates fibroblast production and triggers collagen growth at the cellular level. I explain more about these ingredients and how they work in my video on must-have collagen-boosting ingredients in your skincare routine.
What about microneedling or chemical peels?
Microneedling, laser, chemical peels, or any external treatment that causes controlled injury to the skin is going to boost collagen. These treatments work, definitely. But remember, you aren’t going in every day for microneedling or similar treatments. Most people have these treatments once every three or four months.
Using effective skin care every single day actually achieves a gain that is far greater than getting an external treatment every few months. Sustainable skin care that you can do consistently on a daily basis achieves the results you’re looking for much other than any other treatment.
Watch out for factors that accelerate collagen loss
While you’re using the Trifecta, or other skincare routines, on a daily basis, watch out for other factors that negatively impact collagen production. Be aware of sun exposure and do not smoke. If you’re going to be in out in the sun, protect your skin with a good, broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen.
As you maintain your skincare routine and protect your skin from damage, you will see your skin begin to change. The downward scale flips, and you gain in collagen production over time. You will see younger-looking, more supple, luminous skin.
Amir Karam MD
Dr. Amir Karam is a world renowned facial cosmetic surgeon and an authority in his field, with over two decades of experience helping patients achieve a younger, refreshed appearance. His dedication to helping people extends beyond his surgical procedures and into the world of skincare. With Dr. Karam's guidance and products, patients and customers can experience a truly transformative skincare journey, and feel confident, beautiful, and empowered in their own skin.
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