Collagen is the protein substance that is responsible for skin’s firm appearance. When collagen begins to deplete, the skin is no longer able to support itself, and it begins to “fold in” on itself. This aging process can result in fine lines and wrinkles, crepe-like skin or even deeper lines and wrinkles. No area on your body is immune from the breakdown of collagen, but as you’ll see below, the causes for decreases in collagen make your face the most likely place where you’ll first see visible signs. Though a personalized anti-aging skin care regimen that includes all three aspects of Inclusive Health® (Looking Better, Living Better and Feeling Better) can reduce the appearance of depleted collagen, you’ll make better decisions about how to structure your anti-aging regimen if you understand the factors that contribute to collagen breakdown.
Natural Aging Contributes to Collagen Decrease
Natural aging, known as Genetic Aging, is typically the most common cause of the depletion of collagen in an individual’s body. Over time, despite any preventative measures that you may take, the body just slows down in its production of collagen just like it slows down in many of its other functions. While a healthy diet that’s rich in Essential Fatty Acids and Antioxidants can help to keep skin firmer, the age at which your skin begins to slow down and deplete collagen is predetermined by your genetic makeup. You can decrease the speed and severity of the breakdown through healthy lifestyle choices, but the body’s natural aging progression will eventually lead to less natural collagen production.
Related Product: Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion
Murad’s Age Reform® anti-aging products were specifically designed to combat Genetic Aging and collagen depletion. Rapid Collagen Infusion uses Collagen Support Complex to fight wrinkles and boost skin’s resilience.
Customer Review
“I’ve used it all, products, botox, you name it. And this is better. It’s pricey – but all of the products that improve collagen are. I’m on the bandwagon.” Luci1974, Louisiana (See all reviews.)
Hormonal Shifts Contribute to Collagen Decrease
Hormonal shifts can result in a decrease in collagen. This form of collagen loss, known as Hormonal Aging, is most frequently seen in women who are approaching or have recently gone through menopause. In studies, women have been shown to lose up to thirty percent of their skin-firming collagen in the five years following menopause. While hormonal shifts related to menopause are the most common reason for a hormonal trigger to a loss of collagen, other hormonal shifts that happen as we age can also result in lower amounts of collagen.
Related Product: Murad Resurgence® Introductory Kit
Murad Resurgence was specifically developed to combat the effects of Hormonal Aging. Using products developed to simultaneously firm and tone skin while also hydrating for a fuller appearance, this complete anti-aging skin care regimen minimizes the impact of hormone-related collagen loss.
Customer Review
“I have always taken care of my skin after teen acne. But after using for 6 months, when I went for a facial (real rare treat) I was finally told that my skin was well hydrated! This has never happened before in my life and I am 56. Resurgence is absolutely essential!” NancyZ, California (See all reviews.)
UV Exposure and Daily Pollution Contribute to Collagen Decrease
Unprotected exposure to the sun and to pollutants and toxins found both in the air and in everyday products can also contribute to the breakdown of collagen. These environmental factors, the source of Environmental Aging, are responsible for Free Radical creation in your body. Free Radicals are damaged oxygen cells that attack other cells in the body in an effort to repair themselves. Skin cells, including collagen cells and cells responsible for the production of collagen, are among the most commonly attacked. When free radicals damage collagen cells, the impact is a reduction in healthy collagen to support skin firmly. Antioxidants and Flavonoids can combat free radicals and lead to healthier skin when incorporated both into Internal Care (as part of a diet or supplement program) or Topical Care (in skin care products infused with antioxidant-rich ingredients).
Recommended Product: Murad Essential-C Daily Renewal Complex®
Murad Environmental Shield® skin care products were developed to combat Environmental Aging and collagen loss by providing the skin with a topical infusion of antioxidant-rich Vitamin-C.
Customer Review
“I received a sample of this product and fell in love with it after the very first use. The essential-c daily renewal complex improved the texture/appearance of my face after the first use. I’ll admit I was a little shocked at the cost but still didn’t hesitate to purchase and I have not regretted it. Any fine lines that I saw are gone and I even have a glow. Who knew it could be so easy to reverse the aging process.” EmilyR369, Missouri (See all reviews.)
Collagen loss is inevitable with time and age, but it can be minimized with proper preventative measures such as a healthy and antioxidant-rich diet, proper topical skin care and preventative sun protection. When you do begin to see the signs of depleting collagen, begin a skin care regimen that includes products that will simultaneously boost collagen strength while hydrating the skin.
Learn more about the facts and myths of aging skin in the Murad Anti-Aging Skin Care and Resource Center.
