What is Collagen Banking?
Collagen banking, in simple terms, is the process of stimulating collagen production and storing it for future use. Think of it as a savings account, but instead of money, you’re depositing the very essence that maintains your youthful appearance. Collagen banking focuses solely on preserving this vital protein, ensuring that you have a reserve as your natural production wanes.
What age does collagen decline?
Collagen is a complex protein made up of amino acids. It’s the most abundant protein in our body, found in our skin, bones, muscles, and tendons. As we age, our collagen production starts to decline, usually in our mid to late 20s. There are also a variety of other reasons why collagen levels start to dwindle but by banking your collagen early, you’re essentially capturing it in its prime.
“We have a finite amount of elastin, and largely this can’t be stimulated to regrow,” shares Dr Claire Oliver (GDC), Medical Director at Air Aesthetics & Wellness Clinics. “It’s about prioritising your skin today, by taking steps to promote collagen production and shielding it from excessive sun exposure & UV harm.”
Why is Collagen Important?
Collagen, according to Dr Claire Oliver, is the building block of protein that gives one baby skin and is integral to our overall health. It provides essential structural support to our skin, bones, and connective tissues, ensuring firmness, elasticity, and strength preventing sagging skin, lines and wrinkles. It aids in efficient wound healing, supports gut health, and is vital for cardiovascular well-being, particularly in maintaining the structure of our arteries. In essence, collagen’s significance extends far beyond beauty, playing a pivotal role in various bodily functions.
Treatments Used for Collagen Banking
Although everyday foods like fish and vegetables are a source of collagen, the amount consumed often falls short of replacing what diminishes with age. Adequate collagen levels in the body are essential to maintain the health of skin, hair, and nails, ensuring they remain vibrant and full of energy.
Some of the most popular treatments used for “collagen banking” include:
· Ultherapy
Ultherapy is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses focused ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin. By targeting the deeper layers of the skin, it stimulates the body’s natural collagen growth, resulting in a firmer and more healthy skin. Commonly used on the face, neck, and décolletage, Ultherapy offers a non-surgical alternative to traditional facelifts, with minimal downtime.
· Secret RF
Secret RF microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy. The treatment involves using fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which, when combined with RF energy, stimulates collagen and elastin production. This dual action promotes skin tightening and rejuvenation, addressing concerns like wrinkles, scars, and skin texture. Being minimally invasive, Secret RF microneedling offers enhanced results with reduced recovery time compared to traditional treatments.
· Dermal facial fillers
Dermal fillers, such as Belotero Revive and Radiesse, are injectable treatments used to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Belotero Revive is designed to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. On the other hand, Radiesse is a unique filler that not only provides immediate volume but also helps to stimulate collagen formation for long-lasting results. Both fillers offer a non-surgical approach to facial rejuvenation, helping to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
· Chemical peels
A chemical peel is a dermatological treatment that uses a chemical solution to exfoliate and remove the top layers of the skin. This process encourages the regeneration of a new layer of skin, leading to a smoother and more youthful appearance. As the skin heals, it stimulates collagen production which further improves skin texture and elasticity.
· LED light therapy
LED (Light Emitting Diode) light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses varying wavelengths of light to treat skin issues. Different colours of LED lights target specific skin concerns. For collagen growth, red LED light is commonly used. It penetrates deep into the skin’s dermis, stimulating the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer and plumper skin.
· Increase Hyaluronic Acid Levels
Some aesthetic treatments, like microneedling combined with Hyaluronic Acid serums & dermal fillers, can enhance the penetration of Hyaluronic Acid into the skin. Hyaluronic Acid not only supports the health and production of collagen but also ensures that the environment such as hydrated skin is optimal for preserving and banking high-quality collagen.
· Polynucleotides Treatments
Polynucleotides are a new & groundbreaking approach to anti-ageing, enhancing the skin’s innate ability to regenerate tissue. These treatments utilise biological molecules, essentially sequences of nucleotides, stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen. This aids in skin remodelling and addresses prevalent ageing signs.
Book your free collagen banking consultation today
Here at Air Aesthetics, we offer a comprehensive range of collagen boosting treatments that are tailored to your specific needs. Book a free consultation with us where we can answer any questions you may have and also discuss the best course of action for you based on your skin concerns.
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