Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the body. It is found in the joints, connective tissues and, of course, the skin. It is impossible to talk about healthy, youthful skin without paying attention to collagen.
Collagen molecules form the structural architecture of the skin and they are essential for the skin to remain firm, smooth, elastic and healthy. A reduction in the amount and quality of collagen in the skin causes wrinkles, loose skin, and generally reduces skin health. This reduction can be caused by ageing and certain lifestyles and practices.
How to improve skin collagen naturally
Aloe Vera
One of the best ways to naturally improve your skin’s collagen is through the use of aloe vera.
Aloe Vera has been used for centuries in various cultures as an essential part of skin care for treating sunburns and soothing skin cuts and injuries. It is also known for its promotion of wound healing, which is done by stimulating the skin to produce collagen.
You can apply pure aloe vera gel on your skin to immediately tighten it and stimulate collagen production. Aloe Vera can also be ingested by mouth for skin health.
Vitamin C
The C in Vitamin C should stand for Collagen because the vitamin is very important for skin collagen.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant which clears free radicals from the body and prevents them from weakening collagen bonds in the skin. Not only does the vitamin prevent collagen destruction, but it also assists collagen production. Studies have found Vitamin C to be an important activator of enzymes necessary for collagen synthesis in the body.
Vitamin C is definitely important for your skin. The good news is that it is abundant in many fruits and vegetables around you. So, grab your citrus fruits and bell peppers to keep your skin youthful.
Egg white
It is no news that a small egg contains hundreds of essential nutrients. But did you know that egg whites contribute to good skin?
Egg white contains an abundance of an amino acid called proline. The body needs proline to produce tough collagen molecules which do not easily get destroyed by UV rays and free radicals.
This is your cue to restock on fresh eggs.
Quit smoking
Remember those nasty free radicals that weaken the collagen in your body? Cigarette and tobacco-based products contain a lot of free radicals which are bad for your skin.
This is another reason to quit smoking if you smoke and avoid starting if you don’t smoke. It is important to note that exposure to second-hand smoke can also affect the collagen in your skin. Stay away from smoking as much as possible.
Reduce your caffeine intake
As lovely as the smell of coffee is, do you know that caffeine does more harm than good for your skin?
Taking a large amount of caffeine can promote collagen breakdown and age your skin prematurely. You don’t necessarily have to eliminate caffeine from your diet, but it may be a good idea to consume it in moderation.
Deal with sleep deprivation
It’s called ‘beauty sleep’ for a reason. Like many other processes in the body collagen synthesis and repair appear to be dependent on the circadian rhythm.
Getting enough quality sleep every day will allow your skin to rebuild and strengthen its collagen.
Ever noticed how your skin looks healthier after you take some time off to rest properly? Or have you noticed how rough your skin looks when you’re sleep deprived? Your skin simply needs you to catch some sleep.
Avoid sleep deprivation if you want healthy, youthful skin.
A word from Healthfacts
Our diet and lifestyle choices contribute to the appearance of our skin. Try imbibing some of these pro-collagen habits to maintain youthful skin for a long time.
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