The Role of Collagen in Your Skin

Aging affects many bodily processes. Your metabolism slows, your memory gets spottier, your digestive system develops a higher sensitivity, and your joints start to become less flexible. 

Along with these changes, your skin also slows down the production of proteins like collagen and elastin. Adopting a rigorous skincare routine can reduce signs of aging caused by collagen depletion.

At New Image Medical Spa in Fremont, California, Dr. Surinder Sandhu uses microneedling, PRP/PRF, and other treatments which employ different methods of kick-starting new collagen production for smoother, younger-looking skin. 

Collagen’s role in skin health

Your skin is made up of three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. Many different types of cells exist within these layers. Some help your skin repel and retain water, while others produce melanin, keratin, collagen, elastin, and other proteins. 

Keratin makes up your nails and hair, melanin provides pigment, and collagen and elastin keep your skin tight and firm. Children and young adults have a stockpile of these proteins, which is why their skin is often so supple and soft. Production of these proteins continues well into adulthood, maintaining this “baby-face” look. 

However, sun damage, stress, and aging can diminish your body’s supply of collagen, causing changes to your face and complexion as you get older. 

Increasing collagen production

Many different treatments can help your body start producing more collagen. Most of them depend on introducing micro-injuries to your skin: tiny wounds you don’t even notice but which trigger your body to go into healing mode. Part of this process means beginning to create collagen to support the regeneration and rejuvenation of your skin. 

Microneedling with PRF 

Dr. Sandhu uses microneedling with protein-rich fibrin (PRF) derived from your blood to create a fast reaction and subsequent collagen production. The microneedling uses ultra-fine needles so you barely feel a prick as the handheld roller passes over your face. Dr. Sandhu applies PRF after microneedling to help attract growth factors and promote healing.

PicoSure® laser therapy

Laser therapy using a specific wavelength of light delivered in short bursts can “squeeze” cells and promote new collagen production. PicoSure laser therapy is ideal for correcting acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, and sunspots or age spots.

Chemical peels with TCA

Chemical peels which contain high concentrations of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can help treat ice-pick or box-car acne scars, which form deep dimples or depressions in the skin. The acid triggers collagen production at the deepest point of the scar, slowly filling it in from the bottom up over several treatments. 

Learn more by calling 510-269-2324, or request an appointment with Dr. Sandhu online.