Understanding the Vital Role of Collagen in Your Skin

It’s hard to ignore the ever-growing popularity of collagen. You can easily find collagen supplements, collagen peptide protein powders, and a seemingly endless option of creams and serums that contain collagen at your local health food stores, grocery stores, and beauty counters. But why is collagen so important?

Collagen is a protein your body already makes, and it’s essential for optimal skin health. Collagen is what gives your skin elasticity and bounce. For some, collagen is a close second to the proverbial fountain of youth. Collagen induction is also the secret behind the success of microneedling. 

In this article, Dr. Stuart Kauffman and our team at PRP in Philadelphia explain the basics of collagen so you can better understand the role of this protein in your skin 一 and how collagen induction therapy can help boost your collagen levels.

All about collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It provides the building blocks for your skin, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and other connective tissues. Collagen also is found in the lining of your blood vessels and intestines. There are many different types of collagen, and the most common are type I, II, III, IV, and V.

Each form of collagen is found in different types of tissues, but regardless of which one you’re considering, they all act like the “glue” that holds your tissues together. In fact, collagen is derived from kólla (κόλλα), the Greek word for glue.

When it comes to your skin, collagen plays a few key roles:

• Helps new cells grow by helping fibroblasts form 
• Helps replace dead cells
• Provides strength and structure to your skin
• Gives your skin elasticity 

Collagen is made of three amino acids — proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline — that bind together to form collagen’s unique shape: a triple helix.

Collagen loss is normal

While collagen is essential for your body, there’s one downside: Collagen production decreases with age. This is a normal part of aging and can contribute to fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and a hallowed appearance near your eyes.

Many women start to notice these signs increasing after menopause. That’s because many women experience a significant decrease in collagen production in their 60s and after menopause. 

Revitalizing your skin with collagen-induction therapy 

Now that we’ve discussed collagen in-depth, let’s focus on what you can do to help your body produce more collagen. While you can add dietary supplements that contain collagen — peptide protein powders easily dissolve in liquids and provide a serving of protein — you can also turn to microneedling. 

Microneedling is also referred to as collagen induction therapy because the treatment encourages your body to ramp up collagen production. It’s not collagen injection. 

During a microneedling treatment with platelet-rich plasma (AKA a vampire facial), Dr. Kaufman applies the microneedling device over your skin. Each tiny needle creates a micro-injury. Your body responds to these micro-injuries by increasing collagen production. The application of PRP serum further contributes to improved skin tone and texture, reduction of fine lines, and tighter pores.

Because the procedure encourages your body’s natural healing mechanisms, the results last longer. You can further support your skin health by staying hydrated, eating foods that promote healthy skin, and keeping your skin moisturized. 

Treat yourself to microneedling today

If you spot the signs of collagen loss and want to boost your collagen levels, don’t hesitate to reach out to us to learn more about microneedling. To find out if microneedling is right for you, schedule a consultation at our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, office. Call or request an appointment online today.