Collagen Banking
The term “Collagen Banking” is everywhere right now, so what is it? What is the benefit, do you need it, and how is it done? The term “collagen building” is an aesthetics buzz word right now, and simply refers to techniques used to increase your collagen production and protect the collagen you have.
Collagen is one of the building blocks to your skin and is one of the things that makes your skin plumper, firmer and more youthful. Collagen boosting treatments result in reduced fine lines, plumper skin and an overall boost to your skins appearance.
Collagen production occurs mainly in the cells of fibroblasts. We produce less collagen as we age and break down our existing collagen at a quicker rate which has an ageing effect on the skin. Collagen banking refers to the things we can do to increase collagen production and improve the skins appearance. Collagen banking methods can be used in combination with treatments like toxin and dermal fillers. They are also ideal for people who aren’t quite sure about diving into those treatments just yet.
When should I start?
Ideally, starting treatments in your 30’s, when collagen production is starting to decrease will give great results. But it is never too late, and treatments will offer noticeable results at any age.
What can I do for collagen banking?
Microneedling
Microneedling causes small micro – injuries in the skin, and can be done with Hyaluronic acid, or super charged with growth factors. This treatment promotes rapid cell turnover and collagen production. The procedure isn’t painful, but you will be red for a day or two, and need to follow strict aftercare to look after your skin while it heals, so there is a little downtime.
Polynucleotides
These treatments are the latest in regenerative aesthetic medicine. They are a bio – stimulator derived from fish DNA, closely mirroring our own DNA, They have been used in medicine for many years in treatment for scarring and skin healing, They boost collagen and elastin production by boosting fibroblast activity. The result is skin that not only feels and looks healthier, but really IS healthier. An injectable skin booster, there is some downtime and discomfort, but it’s totally worth it for the incredible results. A course of 3 treatments is needed, with a booster treatment every 4 months. This treatment can be used on the face, neck, decolletage, hands, arms, legs, abdomen, anywhere you want the skin to be firmer, more toned and tighter.
Skin Boosters
There is a huge selection of skin boosters on the market. My favourites are Profhilo, Redensity 1 and NCTF. All of these skin boosters target slightly different areas, but the thing they all have in common is that they boost collagen production, improving skin health and appearance.
Dermalux LED Treatment
LED treatment works at a cellular level. Certain wavelengths of light reach different levels of the skin, promoting cellular activity and collagen production. This is a perfect option for anyone who is not keen on anything requiring a needle! It can also be added at the end of a skin boosting treatment to promote healing, reduce downtime and maximise results.
Collagen Supplements
There is limited evidence for collagen supplements taken orally. Collagen is a big molecule, and we know it can be difficult to pass through the gut and be used effectively to be transferred to the skin and see real results. I am currently trying a supplement to see the effects. In my experience, a good collagen supplement doesn’t come cheap, but a cheap supplement won’t do much anyway! Look for hydrolysed marine collagen when looking at supplements to try.
Skincare
A good skin routine can have a huge impact on your skin’s appearance and your collagen production. I bang on about SPF all the time, but there is genuinely good evidence on skin biopsy that regular SPF use (yes, even in winter, just use it every day ok!) shows improvement in collagen in the skin. There is also the added benefit of reduced skin cancer risk. A daily anti-oxidant like a Vitamin C helps reduce oxidative and environmental stress on the skin. Products with peptides and ceramides help to support the skin barrier and reduce trans epidermal water loss. Finally, a retinol into your routine helps to increase cell turnover, and has great results for fine lines, wrinkles, texture and skin tone.
Lifestyle
There are several things you can do in your lifestyle that will directly impact the appearance of your skin. A good sleep routine is essential (do as I say, not as I do ☺) and will help to reduce oxidative stress on your body and allow time for repair at a cellular level, not just for your skin.
Stop Smoking. Smoking has a hugely detrimental impact on your health in general of course, but it is also one of the worst things you can do for your skin. Several studies have shown that smoking is an independent risk factor for premature facial ageing and wrinkling and promotes the production of an enzyme (MMPs) responsible for the breakdown of collagen. The best thing you can do for your skin, is stop.
Avoid excessive sun/UV exposure. UV sun exposure either from the sun or sunbeds not only massively increases your risk of skin cancers, but also massively increases photo – ageing. It can cause hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles and “age spots” Avoid spending too much time in the sun when it is at its strongest (between 10am and 2pm) Use a minimum of SPF 30 and reapply regularly. Use an SPF every day. Every. Single. Day. Not a moisturiser with added SPF, or make up with SPF, but a specific one. There are huge ranges of SPF now, and if you find that you don’t love the one you have tried, odds are there will be one that is perfect for you out there. I know there will be people who say “but what about Vitamin D levels and Seasonal affective disorder?” Take a good supplement and get a sunlight lamp. Don’t risk your health!
