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Collagen
One of the most vital elements of good skin is collagen, which is a protein fiber that gives skin its smoothness and elasticity. However, studies to learn how we produce, destroy, and rebuild collagen are ongoing, with only a few concrete facts to help with skin rejuvenation and restoration. What we do know is that there are a number of types of collagen which work in different parts of the body. Type I and Type III collagen are considered to be among the most important for skin care. Collagen increases from childhood through about age 35, but it decreases until age 60, when it is far below its youthful level. Not only aging, but UV rays, smoking, chlorinated water, free radicals, inflammation, irritation, and other causes lead to depleted levels of collagen. Vitamin C helps restore collagen. Various types of laser treatments are also known to stimulate collagen production.
Fast Facts
- Some studies indicate that taking extra vitamin E, CoQ10 supplements, and retinal skin creams can help rebuild collagen.
- Exfoliating the skin allows old skin to be removed and stimulates the production of new skin cells, which generally includes collagen fibers.
