Collagen Is Your Friend

Think of it as glue for your body. Collagen is found throughout the body and is critical in bone, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is also found in teeth, the corneas of your eyes, blood vessels and other body parts. The dry weight of your body’s skin is approximately 75% collagen. Rich in proline and glycine, two important amino acids, collagen provides volume and structure. When you have enough of it, your skin is wrinkle-free. Every day your body is making more collagen to replace that which is lost as you age.

The Scaffolding of Your Skin

The smoothness and suppleness of your skin depends on the scaffolding collagen provides. The body needs the proteins supplied by protein-rich foods in order to produce collagen. The benefits of antioxidants contained in fruits and vegetables include protecting the body from the processes of oxidation that degrades collagen. Too much exposure to the sun, smoking and a nutrient poor diet contribute to oxidative stress and decreased collagen production.

As we age, that scaffolding naturally becomes less reliable because the body automatically slows down production. In fact, after the mid-20s, collagen production slows by about 1% a year. Then when a woman hits menopause, she can expect to lose about 30% within the first five years. Hence, crow’s feet, fine lines, laugh lines and an older looking visage, even though you may still feel young and vibrant.

Boosting Production

There are ways to boost collagen production and slow the aging process. A healthy, nutritious diet including high-quality proteins and plenty of vitamin-packed vegetables and fruits will help. Slowing the process of collagen degradation will also help.

You can do this by omitting or greatly reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates from your diet. If you smoke, now is a good time to stop and replace the habit with one that is healthier. While sunshine is needed for health, too much is not good. Wear sunscreen and limit your exposure. These changes will help your skin retain its luster – and remember to hydrate, always.

There are also certain treatments involving a variety of natural procedures to rejuvenate and replenish your skin. Taking the inside out approach, keeping your body well-nourished and hydrated is a major step, and adding air, water and energy treatments such as those provided by AuraSpa can greatly improve your overall appearance while boosting your sense of well-being and vitality.

AuraSpa offers customized treatment plans to help you feel and look your best. Contact us today to learn more about the options available to reduce the signs of aging and restore your vitality.