Our skin needs certain proteins to maintain a youthful, healthy appearance. For instance, when the body produces less of a protein called collagen, some signs of aging—such as sagging and wrinkles—start to form. Collagen has many benefits for the skin, including supporting the renewal and regeneration of skin cells and maintaining skin moisture. However, natural aging causes the production of this protein to decline. Sun exposure and smoking cigarettes also degrade collagen. Patients who want to regain this lost volume will be happy to know that there are steps that can be taken to replenish collagen. Stimulating the growth of new collagen has a domino effect: When your skin has more collagen, your body is also able to produce and maintain more of it. Collagen stimulating injections from our Milwaukee-area practice are beneficial for supporting the growth of new collagen to strengthen your skin. Here are some other methods you can try to protect collagen and maintain youthful skin and the results of an injectable treatment:
Antioxidants
Antioxidants defend the body against harmful free radicals. Even though not all antioxidants help the body to build more collagen, they do help the existing collagen to function effectively. Antioxidants are found naturally in foods, such as options that are rich in vitamin C, and you can also apply topical products that contain antioxidants. For example, retinol is a skincare product that maximizes the lifespan of collagen and increases levels of the protein in the skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, a type of tropical cactus, has been used for decades to treat wounds such as cuts and burns, along with other skin ailments. This is because the plant promotes collagen generation in the skin. Aloe can be applied to the skin topically in its pure form or may be found in skin care products. There are also oral supplements that contain aloe vera.
Collagen-Stimulating Injections
Certain types of facial fillers, known as semi-permanent fillers, work by helping the skin to produce more of its own natural collagen, thereby reducing wrinkles and hollows. Parkins Plastic Surgery offer Sculptra®, an injectable that contains poly-L-lactic acid as its main ingredient. The filler stimulates collagen to reduce nasolabial folds along with other facial wrinkles, yielding results that are longer-lasting when compared to many hyaluronic acid-based fillers.
For more advice about collagen stimulating injections, contact Parkins Plastic Surgery. Call us at (262) 269-1050 or submit a contact form to request a consultation if you’d like to learn more.
