4 Ways to Boost Your Collagen

Collagen is a key building block of every tissue in your body, from your muscles to your skin. To make large enough amounts of this vital protein, you need to have the right nutrients – enter Skin Collagen Synergy. This supplement is enriched not only with collagen but also with 32 other nutrients that promote collagen production and skin resilience. “Collagen is fundamental for maintaining skin structure, firmness and elasticity, but it cannot act alone,” explains Lorraine Perretta, head of nutrition at Advanced Nutrition Programme. “Co-factors such as vitamin C and zinc are essential," she says, for smoothing out fine lines. The blend leaves your skin firmer, smoother and more resilient.

Type I collagen is the most abundant in the body, accounting for up to 90% of our total reserves. It’s the one to look out for in supplements, as it is more easily absorbed, allowing you to reap all its benefits. Marine collagen, such as that used in Vida Glow’s supplement range, falls in that category and, according to founder Anna Lahey, delivers visible improvements to your skin within a matter of weeks. “Clinical studies on Vida Glow Natural Marine Collagen show visible results in as little as four weeks… While individual results vary, collagen works cumulatively – so the longer you take it, the more noticeable and sustained the benefits become.” 

LED therapy is primed for boosting collagen, because it emits light waves that reach all the way down to the fibroblasts – aka, the cells that connect tissues in the body by producing collagen. “Think of it as giving the skin cells an ‘energy boost’, much like how nutrients fuel the body,” says Dr Zamani of MZ Skin. Red light specifically, she adds, like that emitted by the LightMax Supercharged LED Mask 2.0, improves collagen density and skin elasticity. “With consistent use, LED therapy can accelerate cellular turnover and enhance collagen remodelling.” And all it takes is wearing the mask for 10 minutes, four times a week (a hot brew not mandatory, but encouraged). 

Microcurrent technology is another innovative way to stimulate collagen and elastin production. According to research, it can “increase the production of the adenosine triphosphate molecule, which helps firm up the skin and fight signs of ageing like wrinkles and sagginess,” says Dr Raj, a medical expert at Foreo. Her favourite microcurrent tool is the Bear 2, which, clinical trials at the brand have shown, reduces the appearance of fine lines, improves firmness and promotes overall skin health. Plus, it fits in the palm of your hand, enabling rejuvenation treatments on the go. 

A cosmetic dermatologist, Dr Marwa Ali is one of our leading aesthetic doctors in The Wellness Clinic, specialising in non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments. Juläine of Sweden is a prime example of her know-how. This injectable collagen biostimulator is made from PLLA (Poly-L-lactic acid), which stimulates collagen production and delivers a natural-looking, lifted complexion.

An oculofacial plastic surgeon and cosmetic specialist, Dr Costas Papageorgiou focuses on minimally invasive face lifts and rejuvenating treatments that improve and balance the appearance and structure of your face. The Hybrid Energy Lift method uses multilayered energy waves such as ultrasound and laser to penetrate the deepest layers of the skin down to the facial muscles, delivering long-lasting results.