The secret to keeping skin springy and firm is knowing how to keep your collagen and elastin levels high. These two proteins are responsible for the structure (collagen) and flexibility (elastin) of your skin.

From your 20’s onwards, collagen and elastin production start to slow – this is a totally normal and natural part of ageing. Protecting the collagen you already have is the first step to maintaining plump skin. You can do this by...

Upping your antioxidants inside and out

Make sure you are incorporating lots of berries, dark chocolate, kidney beans and leafy greens into your diet as well as having a great antioxidant serum in your skincare arsenal. These are the fighters that will destroy free radicals before they have the chance to damage your collagen and elastin.

Stressing less

As if being stressed isn’t stressful enough, high levels of cortisol in the body can destroy collagen, so try to incorporate stress decreasing techniques such as meditation and belly breathing to keep those cortisol levels low and collagen levels high.

Managing inflammation levels

Chronic, low-level inflammation leads to collagen and elastin depletion as well as slowing healing and repair. To reduce this low-level inflammation, avoid environmental stressors such as smoking, pollution, and sun exposure as best you can.

Wearing SPF

Long term exposure to UV rays is one of the most common causes of loss of collagen and elastin. A great broad-spectrum SPF that you can’t wait to apply every day will shield your skin from the sun, reducing the amount of potential damage.

Now you’re protecting your collagen, you can begin to boost it! Your skincare routine can support collagen and elastin stimulation. Look for products that:

ASSIST WITH COLLAGEN AND ELASTIN SYNTHESIS

Vitamin A, growth factors, vitamin C, vitamin E, bakuchiol, and some peptides will stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin.

STRENGTHEN THE BARRIER FUNCTION OF YOUR SKIN

Your skin barrier is your defence from the outside worth. A strong barrier will protect your skin from stressors that could contribute to collagen and elastin depletion.

KEEP SKIN HYDRATED

Hydration is the cornerstone of healthy skin and hydrated skin will look plumper, smoother and more radiant. Use hyaluronic acid in your routine and lock in hydration with omega-rich oils.

ENCOURAGE CELL TURNOVER

Accelerating cell turnover will help to shift damaged skin cells and reveal plumper, healthier skin. Products containing AHAs and vitamin A will help to speed this process along.