I don't know about you, but I've been seeing the term "collagen banking" everywhere these days. If you're not familiar with this phrase, brands and the media coined the idea of collagen banking to convince young people that they could build up collagen in their 20s and 30s, with the idea that they'll look better as they age. If you're in your 20s or 30s, you might think this is a great approach to take. And if you're any older, you might be disappointed that you missed the boat.
But the truth? Collagen banking just isn't a realistic approach to skincare or preventative aging. The reality is that we should be taking care of our skin (and boosting collagen!) at every age. Luckily, as a master esthetician of over two decades, this is my area of expertise!
What Does Collagen Do For Our Skin?
Collagen is a frequent flyer on many skin and hair care ingredients lists, promising to do everything from plump the skin to encourage hair growth. And, fortunately, there is a lot of science that backs up these claims. Studies show that collagen supplements can improve skin hydration, elasticity, roughness, and density. Collagen peptide supplements can also help to keep the skin hydrated, which could ultimately slow signs of aging and prevent wrinkles.
The bad news? Starting around age 25, our bodies naturally produce less collagen, which can lead to less volume and firmness in the skin. At first, skin loses around 1% of its collagen every year, and then usually drops off more when menopause hits. As collagen levels decrease, skin can become thinner and feel more "crepey."
What Is Collagen Banking?
When you heard the word "banking," you probably think "checking account" or "401k," right? While you don't need to go to a bank to open a skincare savings account (or, if you enjoy luxurious products, maybe you do!), the concept of collagen banking is the same. The thought behind collagen banking is that you stimulate as much collagen as you can while you're still young, so your body can use more of it later to prevent signs of aging. It's the idea of building up a reserve to prevent that inevitable collagen loss as we age. This isn't exactly possible, but there are ways to boost collagen in your skin any time.
How To Boost Collagen At Any Age
Here are some of my top tips and product recommendations for giving your skin all the anti-aging help you can:
1. Diet & Exercise
This is the number one thing you can do if you want to bank collagen. I'm not a nutritionist or exercise expert, but a balanced diet and plenty of exercise can go a long way in preserving the collagen in your skin (and producing more!). Some of the best foods for collagen production are rich in amino acids, such as lean meat, fish, eggs, beans, dairy, and bone broth. And don't forget...
2. Hydration
Getting plenty of water is key in keeping your body and your skin hydrated—and encouraging collagen production. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day as your first line of hydration. Then, you can give your skin a drink with super hydrating skincare, like a toner, serum, or ampoule. I love the Dr. Esthe MGF Renewal Solution Ampoule. It's a snail mucin ampoule that's ultra hydrating, and it feels so luxurious. In addition to providing a collagen and elastin boost (plus some much-needed hydration), this ampoule can help improve the appearance of crepey or sun-damaged skin.
3. High-Performance Products
Pharmaceutical-grade, science-backed products are critical in building your collagen bank. Here are some of my go-to products that can help boost collagen:
- The NeoGenesis Recovery Advanced Cellular Serum uses stem cell science and features 70% active ingredients. It's pharmaceutical grade, high-performance skincare. Filled with antioxidants and peptides, this serum supports and enhances collagen production, and is great for using after professional treatments like chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and microneedling.
- Poly-L lactic acid, which you can find in the HOUSE OF PLLA® HOP+ CAVIPLLA+O2® Multi-Serum, promotes panoramic collagen production. This product also uses stem cell science to stimulate collagen by deeply penetrating follicles in the skin.
- When boosting collagen, we need active ingredients like vitamins A and C, which you can find in retinols and retinoids. My CBE Botanicals 'Sleep On It' Retinol Serum can help build collagen while also improving the appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone.
- Lastly, one of the easiest ways to bank collagen is simply by using sunscreen. By preventing sun damage, you're protecting your collagen so it can continue to work against fine lines and sagging skin instead. I love the Dr Esthé Sun Protection Ultra Repair SPF 50, which is professional-grade but gentle enough for sensitive skin.
4. Targeted Massage
If you've ever gotten a facial with me, or likely any licensed esthetician, you probably know that we incorporate elements of massage during the treatment. This involves motions like pinching, kneading, and tapping, all of which can promote collagen production (in addition to helping you stay relaxed!). One of my all-time favorite tips is that you can try out some of these techniques at the end of your own daily skincare routine at home — check out my video here!
5. High Tech Devices
Devices can also play a major role in stimulating and "banking" collagen. I love the convenience of at-home gadgets, like the Clareblend Mini Microcurrent, which can help increase collagen and elastin production... while simultaneously toning facial muscles, enhancing product penetration, and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Radio Frequency (RF) is one of the best non-invasive ways to boost collagen, tighten skin, and improve elasticity over time. The Christine Byer Radio Frequency device combines low frequency energy, gentle heat, and infrared light to stimulate collagen production from within — and it feels amazing while doing it!
If you plan on using devices to "build your collagen bank," keeping your skin and body hydrated (see Step 2!) is absolutely critical. When you use devices, your skin will be thirstier since you'll be speeding up cellular turnover, whether it's with a microcurrent or radiofrequency tool. And your skin needs that extra water to effectively produce more collagen!
Want to get more support with your collagen journey? Join me in the Christine Byer Beauty Club. I offer a 14-Day FREE preview with full access to everything in the Club. Get personalized support for your questions and have access to savings and the opportunity to win a FREE consultation. If you don’t find value in your membership, cancel within the 14 days at no charge.
