Are collagen supplements and biostimulators like Sculptra® really worth it?
As a cosmetic injector and naturopathic doctor, I’ve had the privilege of helping people across my locations in Nanaimo, Parksville, Courtenay, Langley, and beyond look and feel their best. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that, no matter your age, everyone wants to feel confident and healthy in their own skin. And we’re always looking for more accessible ways to do that.
The term collagen is tossed around a lot in marketing, but what exactly is it? Why does it matter? And when should you start thinking about adding it into your routine? I’m going to answer these questions and give you some tips—both natural and with a little help from science—on how to support collagen production, naturally slow the signs of aging, and boost your skin’s health.
What exactly does collagen do for you?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body and essentially acts as the structural “glue” that holds everything together. It’s found in your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. In your skin, collagen provides strength and elasticity, keeping it firm and youthful-looking.
As we get older, our body naturally produces less collagen, and the collagen that remains becomes weaker. This leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. This process typically starts around our mid-20s, and by our 30s, we start seeing the visible effects—think of fine lines as the first sign that your collagen levels are dropping. And that’s just how a lack of collagen production shows up visibly. The decrease in production can also lead to brittle hair and nails, achy joints, digestive issues, and slower wound healing. So, when should you start thinking about collagen?
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At what age should I start using collagen?
Many people wonder when is the right time to start worrying about collagen. The truth is, collagen depletion starts happening earlier than most people realize. Ideally, you should start supporting your collagen levels in your mid-20s or early 30s to prevent those first signs of aging. But, if you’re in your 40s or 50s+ and are seeing more noticeable signs of collagen loss (like wrinkles or sagging), it’s not too late to start.
Natural Collagen Boost
The good news is that there are a number of simple habits and lifestyle changes you can start right now to support your skin’s collagen production and keep things looking smooth and plump. Here are some easy, practical tips:
- Sun protection is non-negotiable.
UV rays are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to collagen breakdown. In fact, UV damage can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin much faster than aging alone. To protect your skin, make sunscreen a daily habit. Even on cloudy days, a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher is a must. If you’re going to be outdoors for an extended period, hats and sunglasses also provide an added layer of protection.
- Eat collagen-boosting foods.
Your diet can play a huge role in keeping your collagen levels up. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Vitamin C: This vitamin is essential for collagen production. It helps your body create collagen and acts as a powerful antioxidant to protect your skin from damage. Think citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
- Amino Acids: Collagen is made of amino acids like proline and glycine. You can get these from bone broth, chicken skin, or even fish with skin.
- Antioxidants: Free radicals break down collagen, so eating foods high in antioxidants helps fight this. Berries, dark chocolate, and leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with antioxidants.
- Stay hydrated—duh!
Water is essential for keeping your skin looking fresh. Collagen relies on hydration to maintain its structure, so drinking enough water throughout the day is key. Plus, foods like cucumber, watermelon, and celery help you stay hydrated while providing extra nutrients for your skin.
- Stress less…
I know this can be a challenge in our ever-connected day-to-day, but managing stress is crucial for collagen production. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can actually break down collagen in your skin. Incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or simply taking some time to relax can do wonders for your skin.
Longevity Supplements: Collagen
Let’s talk about collagen supplements. You’ve probably seen ads for them everywhere—pills, powders, and drinks. But do they actually work? The short answer is: yes, but only if you’re choosing the right kind. Hydrolyzed collagen—also known as collagen peptides—can help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and boost hydration. These smaller, more easily absorbed collagen particles are what you’ll want to look for in your supplement.
In fact, a recent study published in Frontiers in Aging analyzed 26 clinical trials with over 1,700 participants and found that hydrolyzed collagen supplements significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity. The results suggest that collagen supplements can be a helpful addition to your anti-aging routine.
The two main types of collagen that support skin health are called Type I and Type III collagen. Type I is the most abundant type found in skin, and Type III is the one that helps with skin elasticity. Many marine collagen supplements are rich in Type I, and bovine collagen (from cows) tends to contain both Type I and Type III, making them a great option.
At my practice, I recommend three longevity supplements, which are available through FullScript. One of my favourites is Whole Body Collagen, which features a unique blend of bioavailable collagen peptides specifically designed to support not just skin elasticity, but also bone strength and joint health. The versatility of this product makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine—whether through shakes, smoothies, or other foods—ensuring you’re getting the amino acids necessary for collagen production and renewal. If you’re interested, feel free to reach out to me, and I’d be happy to walk you through the benefits and how to incorporate them into your routine.
The Science Behind Biostimulators
As for collagen-boosting injections, there is nothing that compares to Sculptra®, the biostimulator that’s changing the regenerative aesthetics game. Instead of just adding volume like traditional dermal fillers, Sculptra® stimulates your skin’s natural collagen production over time. By age 40, most of us have lost up to 20 percent of our natural collagen, and that’s where Sculptra® can help. Sculptra® works by injecting poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) into the skin, which triggers a mild inflammatory response that stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen. As the PLLA particles are gradually absorbed, collagen rebuilds the skin’s structure, improving volume, firmness, and texture over time. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that simply fill lines and wrinkles, Sculptra® improves the skin’s underlying structure, with results lasting up to five years.
Whether you’re noticing some volume loss in your cheeks or sagging along your jawline, Sculptra® can help improve your skin’s structure and rejuvenate your appearance. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to restore youthful fullness while also promoting long-term collagen health in their anti-aging routine. If you’re in the Nanaimo, Parksville, Courtenay, or Langley area, I’d love to help you explore whether Sculptra® might be right for you. Let’s chat about your goals, and we can make a plan together.
Anti-Aging and Collagen in Nanaimo, Parksville, Courtenay, and Langley
Collagen is a powerful protein that supports your skin’s structure and elasticity, and it’s a wise addition to any anti-aging routine. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, there are plenty of things you can do to preserve and rebuild your collagen levels—starting today. If you’re ready to explore collagen-boosting supplements or discuss Sculptra® in more detail, don’t hesitate to reach out and book a consultation. I’m here to help you look and feel your best, naturally.
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