What is collagen banking?

If you’ve heard the phrase ‘collagen banking’, you may be wondering what on earth it means. Can you ‘bank’ your collagen? And how do you grow your supplies? Once we’re over 30, we have to put in a bit of work to stop the levels of collagen – the protein that keeps our skin firm – dwindling as far as nature intends it to. How? Read on for the lowdown…

Collagen banking is a phrase I’m hearing a lot just now. It sounds like you’re saving your collagen up for a rainy day  — which unfortunately you can’t do.  If you’re on the mature side, like me,  when you look back at old photographs of yourselves and you’ve got a lovely springy firm face, that’s all the collagen keeping the skin strong and that’s what you want to hang on to.

So, the idea with collagen banking is that you stimulate the collagen that you HAVE got in order to grow some more, so your face will stay firmer for longer.

How can I bank collagen?

1. Skincare Products: One of the easiest ways to start collagen banking is by incorporating skincare products that boost collagen production into your daily routine. Look for products containing ingredients like retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. These ingredients stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Collagen Supplements: Consider adding collagen supplements to your daily regimen. These supplements, available in various forms such as powders, capsules, or liquid, have shown proven benefits in supporting collagen production and overall skin health. Collagen supplements can help replenish the collagen lost due to aging and environmental factors.
3. Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy, also known as LED therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that can promote collagen production and improve skin texture. Many individuals, like myself, opt for home-use LED masks that allow for convenient and consistent use. Regular red light therapy sessions can help enhance collagen levels and rejuvenate your skin.
4. Tweakments like Microneedling: For a more direct approach to stimulating collagen production. During microneedling, tiny needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the body’s natural collagen production process. Over time, this can lead to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

When to Start Collagen Banking

Ideally, you should start thinking about collagen banking as early as your 30s. However, it’s never too late to begin preserving and boosting your collagen levels. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond, taking steps to support collagen production can benefit your skin. Remember, the key is to be proactive in your approach.