As we get older, beginning in our twenties, our bodies begin to slow down collagen production, which leads to aging not only in the skin but throughout our bodies. Collagen supplements are a hot topic in the health and skincare industries, but does it ACTUALLY work to improve our hair, skin, and nails? Can we use collagen supplements to actually stimulate collagen production within our bodies?
In this episode of my YouTube series, Skin School, I discuss the topic and whether I recommend using collagen supplements as a part of your health and skincare regimen. Let’s answer the question, “Collagen: game-changer, or fad?”
What is Collagen?
Lines, wrinkles, laxity, and dull skin appear because collagen decreases over time. Collagen is a protein that builds our entire body, and in an anti-aging context, collagen is crucial to restoring youthfulness, suppleness, and hydration.
Collagen production slows down because of several factors, such as:
- Smoking
- Lifestyle
- Stress
Simply put, collagen is vital to maintaining your skin’s health, vitality, and firmness.
Do you need a collagen supplement?
Skincare products can absolutely turn on the collagen “engine” and rebuild collagen growth over time, but we must stimulate collagen production at the cellular level to trigger the cells that boost collagen production.
Collagen supplements are animal-derived sources of broken-down collagen. They also contain vitamin C, zinc, and copper which are necessary for collagen production. Ingesting collagen is one of the best ways to replenish your skin because collagen is a large molecule that must be broken down into smaller amino acids by the digestive system. You cannot receive collagen through topical products, such as a skin cream that contains collagen. The molecule is too big to pass through and won’t be integrated into your dermis.
Getting a collagen supply into your body is critical, whether through supplements or diet. Supplements help keep collagen building blocks present in the body, which can then be used to repair and replenish the skin.
The key is to pair collagen supplements with a comprehensive and consistent skincare regimen. Regardless of the amount of supplements and diet you are consuming, exposing your skin to the sun without protection will hasten the loss of collagen.
Do I recommend collagen supplements?
I personally use Vital Proteins, but without the idea that it will keep my skin young forever. I know that supplements give me a rich source of essential amino acids and other nutrients necessary for enhancing collagen production. When I consistently take collagen supplements to boost my skincare efforts, my nails and hair grow faster and I notice an overall vibrancy.
How does the TRIFECTA fit in when it comes to stimulating collagen production?
The entire reason for putting skincare products on your face is to get your cells to produce collagen again. If you’re not using a product that gets down to the cellular level and triggers the cells that boost collagen production, you are wasting your time and money.
When I formulated the TRIFECTA, I wanted to develop a product that stimulated collagen for the long run, and was easy enough to use every day to reverse collagen loss over time. My simple, easy-to-follow skincare routine helps people reverse the signs of age while achieving luminous, supple skin. These products were built around the core concept of getting the body to produce collagen again at a whole new level.
The TRIFECTA daily skincare routine is three easy steps:
RINSE
RINSE is a gentle cleanser that softens and hydrates the skin to boost cell regeneration and collagen production, prevent UV damage, and prepare the skin to absorb active skincare ingredients.
QUENCH
QUENCH is an anti-inflammatory, brightening vitamin C serum that minimizes fine lines and prevents the breakdown of collagen in the skin.
ILLUMINATE
ILLUMINATE is an all-in-one anti-aging cream that boosts cell turnover and collagen production. This improves skin elasticity, reduces signs of age, deeply hydrates, and firms the skin for a supple, youthful glow.
Dr. Amir Karam, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon
Dr. Amir Karam is a world-renowned facial cosmetic surgeon and authority in his field with over two decades of experience.
In his work as a facial plastic surgeon achieving a youthful, defined facial shape, Dr. Karam wanted to help his patients achieve fresh, vibrant skin, the other vital aspect of a youthful appearance. His patients were often overwhelmed with a broad selection of products and complicated skincare routines.
Dr. Karam spent over five years creating the TRIFECTA, a simple yet groundbreaking skincare line for all skin types. His easy-to-use, potent products are clinically proven to achieve beautiful, healthy skin.
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