Collagen is a form of protein made up of amino acids through which the entire body is held together. It makes up around 30% of the protein in the body. Its presence is manifested in muscles, bones, skin and tendons. It gives the skin its strength and structure and in the event that it’s damaged, it helps in replacement of dead skin cells. If you are looking to have a beautiful, flawless skin, then you need to have sufficient amounts of collagen in the skin. It ensures you keep a youthful look and wrinkles don’t appear. This is however not possible since as you age, collagen seem to deplete naturally. However, there are factors that can boost this depletion. They include:
High Sugar Intake
If you have a tendency of taking foods that are high in sugar content, you are jeopardizing your health and secondary you are damaging your skin. Sugar found in the blood attaches to proteins to form new molecules (also known as glycation). This process makes collagen in the skin brittle, dry and weak. Minimize your sugar intake as much as possible.
UV Rays From The Sun
These rays accelerate the rate at which collagen breaks down, damaging collagen fibers and inducing accumulation of abnormal elastin. This abnormal elastin accelerates collagen breakdown even more. Wearing sunscreen with the correct amounts of SPF will help keep the skin protected.
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Disorders
Certain autoimmune disorders manifest in such a way that antibodies attack collagen in the body. This way, the amount of collagen in the body decreases drastically.
Smoking
Since immemorial times, smoking has been shown to drastically deteriorate the health of the skin. Another finding has shown that certain chemicals found in tobacco damage collagen and reduces the skin’s elasticity.
If you stay clear of these factors, you will be able to keep the skin full of collagen. This will ensure wrinkles don’t appear before their time. While there are supplements available in the market, there are also ways you can incorporate to boost collagen in the skin. The good thing is they are not complex and are recommended for everyone. They include:
1. Eating Correct Foods
There are certain kinds of foods will boost collagen. These are foods that are rich in sulphur, a mineral necessary for collagen production and maintenance of pigmentation in the skin. Such foods include garlic, beans and vegetables. Also, foods that are rich in vitamin C such as broccoli will make the skin supple and radiant. These foods are also important in your general health.
2. Wrinkle Creams
There are a variety of creams available in the market that prevent wrinkles and also aid in collagen production. Best wrinkle creams reviews are available and can help you determine the best ones for your skin. Don’t go for the most expensive as most are times that they have the same quality with the less expensive one the only difference being the packaging and marketing strategies. Your highest priority should be getting the best out of the cream.
Useful link: Natural home remedies for wrinkles and skin aging
3. Drink Enough Water
Keeping the skin hydrated boost immensely collagen production. Also, studies show that collagen thrives in parts of the skin that are hydrated. That might be the reason most people who drink lots of water have the most beautiful skins. It’s all about hydrating from the inside before trying it on the outside. I don’t think I really need to tell you the other myriad benefits of taking water.
4. Reduce your sugar intake
Above, we saw the effects of sugar on the skin. By minimizing your sugar intake, you give collagen a chance to thrive. Opt for foods that are high in fiber such as whole grains and brown cereals other than their white counterparts. This will boost your health as well. Quit smoking if you are an addict. There is nothing that you will ever gain from smoking apart from putting yourself at risk of developing a myriad of conditions. It is also a known cause of chapped and cracked lips. There is nothing least attractive than that. It is not easy to quit, but its sure is possible.
Conclusion
A smooth, radiant skin is a wish for most people. It however, doesn’t come easily and requires some effort from your part. Try the above ways and see which works out best for you. You will definitely love your skin. Also, try as much as possible to avoid circumstances that may take a toll on your skin. This will ensure it is protected and that collagen is not depleted. As you age, you will be sure to have a youthful look and most importantly prevent premature skin aging. Talk of mastering the art of aging gracefully!
