V is for Vibrancy

As time passes, skin naturally loses its elasticity, firmness, and vibrancy. This blog explores the science behind these changes and offers practical, actionable tips to help you take control of your skin health through informed choices in diet and skincare.

The Science Behind Skin Elasticity and Strength

Two key proteins responsible for skin's elasticity and strength are elastin and collagen. Elastin allows the skin to stretch, while collagen provides support and strength. Collagen also plays a crucial role in maintaining joint linings (cartilage), blood vessels, and even the gut lining.

As collagen levels decrease, the most common signs of ageing appear—wrinkles, sagging skin, weaker muscles, joint stiffness, reduced flexibility, gastrointestinal issues (due to a thinning gut lining), and impaired blood flow. While collagen's decline impacts the body in many ways, this blog focuses on its effects on the skin.

Why Dietary Collagen Isn’t Directly Absorbed by the Body

Although many foods contain collagen, and supplements are widely available, it’s a misconception that consuming these will directly boost collagen levels in the skin. When ingested, collagen is simply digested, just like all other proteins, and broken down into peptides and amino acids. The body then uses these to synthesise various proteins, including collagen.

A key part of collagen's structure is hydroxyproline, which the body can create from amino acids like arginine, ornithine, and proline. Another vital component, glycine, can be produced from choline, serine, and threonine. Therefore, eating a diet rich in these particular amino acids supports the body's natural collagen production.

The Role of Vitamin C in Collagen Production

Vitamin C is well-known for brightening the skin and improving its appearance when applied topically. But did you know that maintaining high levels of Vitamin C in your diet also boosts skin texture and fullness? Here's how it works:

Vitamin C is essential for converting dietary proline into hydroxyproline, a process vital for the production and maintenance of collagen. For healthier, more vibrant skin, a dual approach is best—incorporating both topical and dietary sources of Vitamin C.

Tips for Enhancing Skin Appearance and Health

1. Incorporate Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Include oranges, berries, bell peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli in your diet to boost internal collagen production.
2. Consider Proline and Glycine Precursor-Rich Foods: Foods like chicken, fish (with edible bones), nuts, eggs, and whole grains are excellent sources of the building blocks for collagen production.
3. Reduce Sugar and Refined Carbs: Excess sugar binds to collagen and produces compounds that weaken its structure.
4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and function.
5. Protect Your Skin from UV Exposure: Use sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.
6. Avoid Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
7. Exercise Regularly: Increased blood flow from exercise brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, promoting its overall health.
8. Cosmetic treatments: Radio frequency treatments can stimulate skin collagen production in targeted areas.

Next steps

SheVive can help you restore your vibrancy, with carefully craft recipes designed to revitalise your skin and boost your collagen production. All tailored to your unique needs and preferences!