Tips for Hanging on to Collagen and Elastin for the Long Haul

Are you hoping to hold on to your youthful glow for as long as you can? You aren’t alone! We at Wrinkle Fairy with offices in Arlington Heights, Gold Coast Chicago, Oakbrook Terrace, and Naperville, Illinois, have the insider tips to help you hang onto the essential skin-nourishing proteins that contribute to youthful skin: collagen and elastin. 

You might be wondering what the big deal is when it comes to collagen and elastin. Leslie Forrester, APRN, and our team explain that if your skin is like a trampoline, bouncing back after everything life throws at it, it’s the collagen and elastin fibers that give it that youthful bounce!

But as you get older, the production of these proteins slows. As a result, your skin loses the firmness and elasticity that keeps it youthful. But don’t worry—you can do plenty to keep your skin happy and healthy for the long haul. Here are our top tips?

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Can we stress this enough? Probably not! Hydrating is one of the simplest ways to maintain collagen and elastin. When we're dehydrated, our skin becomes dry and loses its elasticity. Remember to aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Simple, but effective!

A balanced diet is your (skin’s) best friend

Feed your skin from the inside out! A balanced diet high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can work wonders for your skin. Foods like berries, fish, and leafy green veggies are collagen's best buddies. And let's not forget vitamin C, a key player in collagen synthesis. So, next time you're at the grocery store, don't forget to stock up on these skin-loving foods! 

Hello, sun protection

The sun may give us that lovely tan, but overexposure can damage our skin's collagen and elastin. The solution? A good sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher, of course! This isn't just for beach days, either—make it a part of your daily skincare routine. 

Move your body—regularly!

Did you know regular exercise can boost your skin's health and vitality? It’s true! It increases blood flow, delivering nutrients and oxygen to your skin, promoting collagen production. Whether it's a jog in the park, a yoga session, or a dance class, find what you love and stick with it!

Say yes to quality sleep

Never underestimate the power of a solid night's sleep! Our bodies, including our skin, regenerate while we sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours per night to keep your skin in tip-top shape and help promote the production of collagen and elastin.

Give your skin a boost with aesthetic care

At Wrinkle Fairy, our team of seasoned professionals can give you personalized advice based on your skin type and lifestyle. We believe in a holistic approach, considering your overall wellbeing in every aspect of our guidance. 

For example, did you know that we offer aesthetic services that stimulate your natural collagen and elastin production? That's right! Treatments like microneedling with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy, laser skin resurfacing, and thread lifts can kickstart your body's collagen and elastin production, enhancing your skin's firmness and elasticity. 

And the best part? These treatments are generally minimally invasive and come with little-to-no downtime! Now that's what we call a win-win for your skin!

Just remember: No single tip works in isolation. It's about adopting a healthy lifestyle as a whole, complemented by appropriate professional treatments, and that's where we can help. 

Ready to start the journey toward more youthful, resilient skin? Reach out to the aesthetic professionals at the Wrinkle Fairy location nearest you, and set up a skin consultation today!