You must’ve heard the term ‘collagen’ used widely when it comes to skincare, but do you really know what it is, apart from the fact that it’s really important for your skin? Let us tell you what it is and why is it so important. Collagen is a protein present in our body (skin, bones, muscles, connective tissues etc.) that holds the body together. It makes up for the 1/3rd of the protein in the human body. In your skin, it’s responsible for firmness. As we age, collagen reduces and hence our skin starts to sag and wrinkle. Retaining collagen and increasing its production is the main idea behind the concept of ‘anti-ageing’ in skincare. Here’s how you can increase its production in your skin to combat ageing!
 

Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits

Vitamin C is the major contributor in collagen production since it links together the amino acids together that form collagen. So it’s always advisable to include it in your diet. Be it a glass of lemon water in the morning, or a bowl of oranges and grapefruit. Make sure you’re regularly eating citrus fruits!

 

Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds

These are a really healthy food to add to your diet as they help in controlling the breakdown of collagen and producing new skin cells. Zinc present in pumpkin seeds is responsible for this.

 

Fish

Fish

Fish like salmon and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help speed up collagen production and are also great for hair! You can also take supplements of omega-3 fatty acids if you’re not up for eating fish.

 

Egg whites

Egg whites

Collagen is a protein. And so are eggs! This means that they help in retaining and producing collagen in the skin. They’re the quickest means of consuming protein. But remember to have only the egg whites as they are less fatty option as opposed to the yolk.

 

Switch your skincare routine to include collagen-boosting products

Switch your skincare routine to include collagen-boosting products

If you’re dealing with ageing, it’s time to give your skincare routine a much-needed upgrade. You’ll now need to include products that do the basic job as well as have the added advantage of slowing down the ageing process.

Opt for a gentle cleanser like the POND'S Age Miracle Cell ReGEN Facial Foam that micro-exfoliates your skin to get rid of impurities and dullness.

Follow this up with the Lakmé Youth Infinity Skin Firming Day Crème. Its Insta Collagen Boosters tighten skin and give it a boost of hydration. Plus, with the added benefit of SPF 15PA++, you’re guaranteed sun protection too. Repeat this before you go to bed with the Lakmé Youth Infinity Skin Firming Night Crème. It renews skin cells to make skin smoother and softer.

If you’re the kind who suffers from dry skin or are spending too much time in air conditioning that sucks the moisture from your skin, keep the POND'S Age Miracle Intensive Cell ReGEN Serum with you at all times. With 20 times the amount of AntiAgeing Actives and retinol boosters, expect your skin to feel hydrated, bouncy and healthy.

Image credits: pattyanne.net