Looking after our skin as we age is extremely important. However, to stand a better chance of fighting back against the signs of ageing, it is first important to understand what can cause it. One of the biggest reasons is the slowing down of collagen production in our bodies as we grow older.

In this article, we look at some of the reasons why collagen levels in our skin decline and what you can do to fight back.

Age

Using a microscope, researchers studied the structure of collagen in both young and old skin. They found that the young dermis had more cells attached to collagen fibres, with more open space between them. In contrast, the dermis of old people had fewer cells and a thinner layer of fibre bundles.

The main structural components of the dermis are collagen and elastin. They provide the body with strength and support but also undergo structural changes as we age. They lose elasticity and become stiff. These changes contribute to wrinkling formation, which is a visible sign of ageing.

The changes in the dermis are more pronounced than the changes in the epidermis. In fact, the rate of cell turnover in the dermis slows down from 30% in the third to eighth decade of life to 50% in older patients.

UV Damage

Among the many environmental factors that can contribute to photoaging of the skin, UV Damage is among the most prominent. It can cause significant oxidative damage to the skin’s protective barrier. It also contributes to the formation of wrinkles.

UVA light reaches the skin’s deeper layers, causing the loss of collagen and elastic tissue. It triggers the production of free radicals that damage the DNA of the collagen-making cells. It also causes oxidative damage in the epidermal cells.

UVA also activates dermal matrix metalloproteinases, which degrade collagen. These enzymes are important for the repair of damaged collagen, but they also eat away at the natural collagen in the skin. UVA also initiates the formation of skin cancers.

Smoking

Thousands of chemicals in tobacco smoke cause the destruction of collagen and elastin. These are two of the most important components of skin that help keep it wrinkle-free and supple. A lack of these components can lead to sagging, wrinkling and premature ageing.

Smoking can affect skin appearance by causing a “washed out” look. The smoke released into the air also dries out the skin. It can also cause deeper wrinkles. Smokers also suffer from “crow’s feet” around the eyes, as well as “smoker’s pucker.” Those who squint frequently can also develop lines around the mouth.

Diets that Trigger Inflammation

Having a poor diet is not only harmful to your body, but it can also cause inflammation. Inflammation can also cause premature ageing. The main structural protein in our body is collagen. Collagen is found in reticular fibres in connective tissues. This protein keeps skin firm and smooth. It also helps heal wounds and scars. As we age, our collagen levels decline.

Eating foods rich in polyphenols can help to prevent collagen breakdown. These compounds are found in tea, coffee, and fruit. Polyphenols also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many factors that can contribute towards the slowing down of collagen levels in our bodies. Without daily collagen intake that will only continue as we grow older.