Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, providing structural support, strength and flexibility throughout the skin, bones and joints. However, as we age, the rate and quality of production naturally decrease and stores start to deplete. This causes joints to stiffen and skin to sag.
The good news? Changes to lifestyle, diet, and LED light therapy can all help boost collagen production, reversing signs of aging so you can look and feel your best.
Understanding collagen production in your skin
Collagen is naturally produced in the skin by specialized cells called fibroblasts. If you're unsure what collagen is and why it’s important for your skin, learn more in our guide. Along with slowing production, falling collagen levels can be caused by lifestyle factors known to speed up collagen breakdown, leading to premature aging. This happens when collagen is broken down faster than the body can replace it, resulting in lines, wrinkles, and sagging.
UV exposure, smoking, and drinking alcohol are known to stimulate destructive enzymes (molecules that break down collagen), cause oxidative stress, and reduce blood flow, reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients needed to create new, healthy collagen.
Natural ways to increase collagen
The following lifestyle changes can help to support production, naturally:
Nutrition and supplements to boost collagen
A diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, is essential. Protein is made up of amino acids, which form the building blocks of collagen, while vitamin C helps to link them together.
Skincare that stimulates collagen
Formulations containing retinol and peptides can help to increase collagen production by stimulating fibroblasts (skin cells that make collagen), while vitamin C is needed to bind collagen structures together, for stronger, more effective stores.
Sleep to support collagen production
Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep a night is key for healthy collagen production, as this is when the body repairs and regenerates, and levels of the stress hormone cortisol (known to reduce collagen production) drop.
Red light therapy for collagen production
Red light therapy is a safe, pain-free and non-invasive method for boosting collagen production. By penetrating the skin and increasing the production of ATP (the fuel cells need to function), red light therapy helps cells to work more effectively. This includes fibroblasts, responsible for collagen production.
Targeted collagen boost for your face
For targeted, clinically proven facial treatments, the LUMSUME Beauty Mirror combines red (633nm), near-infrared light with a wavelength ranging from 760nm to 1800nm light to penetrate up to 10mm into the skin. After just 8 weeks, you can expect to see firmer, brighter and smoother skin.
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