What Is Collagen and Why Do I Need It?

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What Is Collagen and Why Do I Need It?

beautiful woman with long hairWhen we talk about the aging process, one of the main things to remember is that your body slows its production of collagen as we grow older. Collagen accounts for about 30 percent of your body’s protein content, and is one of the main proteins that give cells their structure from the outside. It’s found in bones, ligaments, muscle tissues, the gut, and even the corneas of your eyes. But when we talk about anti-aging strategies and collagen, we’re usually concerned with the collagen in your skin.

Collagen gives your skin elasticity and strength, but we lose collagen as we age. When you think about the difference between a baby’s skin and an older person’s skin, one of the big differences is the amount of collagen. A baby or teenager has that smooth, young-looking, vibrant skin we all want. As we grow older our bodies produce less collagen, and skin loses its strength and elasticity. Fine lines and wrinkles are the result.

Given the importance of collagen in keeping your skin looking youthful, it’s no wonder that many anti-aging treatments focus on regenerating collagen production. Depending upon your needs and personal preferences, you can choose from a wide range of treatments to stimulate collagen production in your skin – such as creams, supplements, injectables, and now laser treatment.

Laser Genesis, one of our popular anti-aging treatments, was created with this goal in mind. The laser gently heats the upper dermis, below your skin’s surface, to stimulate collagen regrowth in the tissue. We use Laser Genesis to treat fine lines and wrinkles, as well as redness, sun damage, and scars. Many patients prefer this laser treatment to other methods, because they can avoid the side effects common with other anti-aging skin treatments such as bruising and excessive redness.

To discuss Laser Genesis or other ways to boost your skin’s collagen production, please call our office for a consultation. We’ll be happy to discuss different ways you can slow the aging process and enjoy healthier, more youthful skin.