Would you believe me if I said you didn’t have to wait until you notice signs of aging to book your first anti-aging treatment? It’s true. A new trend known as collagen banking is all about preserving your youthful appearance, instead of trying to reverse the signs of aging. So, what is collagen banking and where can you do it in Northern Virginia?
Collagen is the MVP
Collagen is the protein responsible for plump, bouncy, firm skin. It’s the key ingredient to almost all of your skin goals. Seriously. It provides structure and scaffolding in our skin. As we age, collagen production declines. This decline in collagen results in wrinkles, loose skin and other signs of aging.
What is Collagen Banking?
Collagen banking is a prejuvenation treatment. It is a preventative treatment that takes hold of the signs of aging before they even appear. In a sense, it puts you ahead in the game. So, if you’re in your twenties, or even thirties, you might want to pay attention to this one.
Collagen banking aims to maintain and grow your collagen supply while your in the prime years of production. Some doctors believe that collagen banking is a proven way to prepare your skin for the years when supply inevitably drops.
Does Collagen Banking Actually Work?
Essentially, if you build up a bank of collagen, it will soften the blow later when your natural supply starts to deplete. And you get to keep your plump, firm, younger looking skin for longer. Similar to how squirrels store nuts for winter, but with anti-aging benefits.
What Can I Do for Collagen Banking?
Now that you understand what it is, let’s look at what you can do to bank collagen now. Basically, any treatment that stimulates collagen synthesis. This includes things like microneedling, injectables, chemical peels, PRP, and more. These treatments work in different ways but the goal is the same- they stimulate collagen production in some way.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a highly effective collagen inducing treatment. It utilizes hundreds of tiny needles that gently prick the skin and cause micro wounds. This stimulates the body’s healing process which boosts collagen production. For an even bigger boost, combine microneedling with RF energy.
Light Therapy
Laser and light therapy can also boost collagen production. In particular, red LED light can protect existing collagen and encourage new collagen growth.
Chemical Peels
Basically, chemical peels boost collagen production in the same way as microneedling. They use chemical to create controlled trauma to the skin which triggers the body’s wound healing response.
PRP/PRF
PRP and PRF are created from your own blood and then injected back into your skin. This causes collagen levels to increase significantly. PRP may also be paired with microneedling for bigger results.
Biostimulator Injections
Biostimulator injections are injections that help support collagen production. We have several options including Sculptra, Radiesse, PRF, and more.
At Home Collagen Support
Theres a few things you can do at home to support and protect collagen as well. This includes:
- Take a vitamin C supplement
- Daily SPF
- Retinoids
What Type of Collagen Banking in Northern Virginia is Best?
Choosing the best procedure for your skin depends on many factors. The best way to find the treatments that will work well for you is to schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist. We can assess your skin and create a custom treatment plan to help you bank the most collagen.
At Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, we are proud to provide personalized, effective treatment that blends cutting edge science and artistry to give you the results you desire. Contact Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Center today to schedule a consultation.