Young, healthy skin is made up of around 80% collagen. But from the age of 25, collagen production naturally starts to slow down — and continues to decline throughout life. Over time, this shifts the balance, and more collagen breaks down than the body is able to produce.
External factors like UV exposure, smoking, pollution, and an unbalanced diet can also speed up this process, making signs of aging like reduced elasticity, wrinkles, and dryness show up earlier.
One of the clearest signs of aging is loss of firmness — often seen as looser skin around the neck, chest, and the backs of the hands.
Fibroblasts — the cells responsible for producing connective tissue like collagen and elastin — are key to keeping the skin strong and elastic. Connective tissue plays an important role throughout the body: it’s found in the deeper layers of the skin, around blood vessels and nerves, and in tendons, ligaments, and joints.
In the dermis (the middle layer of the skin), collagen fibers create a strong framework that helps the skin stay smooth, firm, and supple. Collagen also has a remarkable ability to bind water, which gives skin its natural plumpness and bounce.
To keep the skin healthy and resilient, cells need the right kind of support — just like a car needs fuel, oil, service, and polish to stay in good shape.
The skin needs regular care too: cleansing, protecting, and nourishing, to stay strong and vibrant over time. When we neglect this, the skin starts to look tired, worn, and older faster. Consistent care really does make a difference.
Simple Rules for Supporting Healthy Skin:
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Eat a varied diet
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Exercise regularly
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Manage stress
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Get enough sleep
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Protect your skin from too much sun
Key Steps for Supporting Long-Term Skin Health
A good skincare routine should protect the skin daily and help repair the damage that naturally builds up over time. Focus on these essential steps:
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Daily sun protection (using a broad-spectrum sunscreen)
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Antioxidants to defend against free radical damage
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Glycolic acids to gently exfoliate and renew the skin
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Repairing enzymes to support skin recovery
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Retinol to boost collagen production and improve skin texture
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Vitamin A derivatives (like retinoic acid) for stronger, healthier skin over time
Healthy, resilient skin doesn’t happen overnight — it’s built day by day through the choices we make. By supporting the skin’s natural processes with the right care, nourishment, and protection, you can maintain stronger, smoother, and more vibrant skin for years to come. Small, consistent steps really do make a lasting difference.
