There are only a few proven ways to significantly increase collagen in the face to tighten the skin. These methods include laser resurfacing of the face, use of a retinol cream, collagen injections, and hyaluronic acid injections. Each method has benefits and drawbacks, but an alternate way to increase collagen is to encourage the body’s natural production and prevent collagen loss through diet and exercise.
Retinol cream, a form of vitamin A, is one of the ways to increase collagen and tighten the skin of the face. The cream is applied to the surface of the skin, where it is absorbed into the dermis. The skin responds by beginning to produce collagen, though the effects of the retinol are only temporary.
Laser resurfacing is a medical procedure that uses a laser to remove the outer layer of the skin. The result is that new skin grows to replace it. The new skin is more youthful and there is an increase in collagen production. This procedure can have long-lasting effects, but recovery times while the skin grows back can be months long. The skin also must be kept out of direct sunlight for up to one year.
Collagen injections use different types of generated collagens to help directly increase collagen in the face. The collagen is injected directly into areas where wrinkles appear. This causes the skin to become tight and helps to start more collagen production. The procedure is only temporary, though, because the collagen injected will eventually deteriorate, just as if it were naturally produced.
Injections of hyaluronic acid can be performed to fill wrinkles or other lines on the face. This chemical interacts with other chemicals in the dermis and can increase collagen production. Like many other treatments, it is temporary and requires maintenance injections over time.
One method to help increase collagen in the face without undergoing a medical procedure is to raise the amounts of vitamins A, C and E in a diet. This could be through supplements or it could be through a diet that includes dark greens such as spinach and fruits such as oranges. When combined with exercise, the healthier state of the body can help to reduce the amount of collagen lost while also encouraging collagen production.
It also is important to be careful about exposure to the sun, which can damage the skin. Avoiding habits such as smoking also can aid in preserving the youthful appearance of the skin. Using moisturizing creams or lotions also can be beneficial over time.