The steady decline of collagen in the body is one of the hallmarks of the aging process, which is why many of today’s anti-aging treatments focus on stimulating the collagen production process and encouraging healthy skin cell regeneration. Collagen acts as the binding compound beneath the skin’s surface, giving skin the healthy, smooth and youthful appearance. Without enough collagen, the skin begins to sag and wrinkles become more pronounced. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can boost collagen production and make the skin more resilient. Here are some of the proven collagen boosters for aging skin:
Microdermabrasion Procedures
Microdermabrasion is a popular skin rejuvenation procedure designed to minimize wrinkles and scars and lighten up pigmentation. This procedure slowly buffs away the top layer of skin and also triggers the wound healing process. It is a relatively painless procedure, and can be performed in under an hour. Microdermabrasion may be combined with a light chemical peel for enhanced results, and a series of treatments is typically needed to see noticeable results.
Deep Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are among the least aggressive skin rejuvenation procedures available, but they do offer the benefit of increasing collagen production. Chemical peels work by damaging the top layer of skin so that the fresher layer underneath can be revealed. Deep chemical peels will sink lower into the skin’s surface and will trigger the body’s natural healing response. This results in increased collagen production, and an immediate reduction of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing procedures such as the C02 fractional laser and the Erbium laser are designed to create small wounds in the dermis, thereby triggering the body’s natural wound healing process. This cycle also increases the rate of collagen production immediately after the treatment, and for several weeks after the treatment. As the skin begins to heal, it becomes stronger, more resilient and scars simply disappear. The number and frequency of these treatments depends on the type of laser used, but most people will see noticeable results after a single treatment.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers such as
Restylane can help to fill out fine lines and wrinkles, but will also stimulate the production of collagen. These injections must be administered by a licensed dermatologist or licensed professional, and results typically last several weeks.
LED Light Therapy
PhotoFacials and other photorejuvenation procedures make use of infrared LED light therapy to stimulate circulation beneath the skin and also to trigger collagen production. LED lamps stimulate fibroblast activity which helps improve the tone and elasticity of the skin. This type of skin rejuvenation treatment is most effective for softening lines and wrinkles, increasing circulation and creating a more toned and youthful appearance. LED light therapy may also be effective for diminishing age spots, lightening skin pigmentation and repairing the skin after acne breakouts.
From deep chemical peels to laser skin resurfacing procedures, there are several ways to boost collagen production and achieve a more youthful appearance. Learn more about
skin rejuvenation procedures in our information guide, or consult with an
anti-aging specialist in your area to discuss treatment options.
Published: 11/20/2009, Last Updated: 11/20/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.