Category: SkinSize

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Discover Your SkinSize™: The Future of Personalised Skincare

What is Collagen? 

Collagen is a vital protein that plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of our skin, muscles, bones, cartilage, and hair. Often referred to as the “scaffolding” of the body, collagen provides the framework that keeps our skin firm, elastic, and youthful. There are about 28 different types of collagen, but Type I collagen is the most abundant in our skin, accounting for approximately 80-90% of our skin’s collagen content. 

As we age, our body’s natural collagen production begins to decline, typically starting in our mid-20s. This decrease in collagen leads to signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and reduced skin elasticity. Understanding how collagen works and how to boost its production can help maintain youthful skin and overall skin health. 

How to Boost Collagen Production 

Maintaining or even boosting collagen levels as we age is possible through a combination of dietary choices, topical skincare products, and certain dermatological procedures. Here are some effective ways to support collagen production:

Dietary Changes

What you eat plays a significant role in your skin’s health and its ability to produce collagen. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can provide the building blocks necessary for collagen synthesis. 

  • Protein-Rich Foods: Foods like chicken breast, fish, egg whites, and bone broth are excellent sources of the amino acids needed for collagen production. These foods contain glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are essential components of collagen. 
  • Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant is crucial for collagen synthesis. It helps stabilise the collagen molecule and provides protection against damage. Foods rich in Vitamin C, such as bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, and kiwi, should be a staple in your diet. 
  • Limited Sugar Intake: High sugar intake can lead to glycation, a process where sugar molecules attach to collagen fibres, making them stiff and brittle. Reducing sugar consumption can help maintain healthy collagen levels. 
  • Collagen Supplements: While the jury is still out on whether collagen supplements provide benefits beyond those of a balanced diet, some studies suggest that they may improve skin elasticity and hydration. If you choose to take supplements, look for hydrolyzed collagen, which is easier for the body to absorb. 

Topical Skincare Products

Certain skincare ingredients are known to boost collagen production and protect existing collagen from degradation: 

  • Retinoids: Members of the retinoid family, including retinol and Tretinoin, are proven to stimulate collagen production. They work by increasing cell turnover and promoting the synthesis of new collagen.  Tretinoin can be prescribed in your Klira formula should the Dermatology team see fit. 
  • Vitamin C: Topical Vitamin C serums can penetrate the skin to stimulate collagen production and neutralise free radicals that damage collagen. Using Vitamin C in your daily skincare routine can help maintain firm, youthful skin. 
  • Niacinamide: Also known as Vitamin B3, niacinamide can support collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into most skincare routines. 

Dermatological Procedures

Certain in-office treatments can significantly boost collagen production by stimulating the skin’s natural healing processes: 

  • Microneedling: This procedure involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the production of new collagen as the skin heals. It’s effective for improving skin texture, reducing scars, and minimising fine lines. 
  • Radiofrequency: This treatment uses energy waves to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin. It’s a non-invasive option for those looking to improve skin laxity. 
  • Laser Treatments: Lasers can target specific layers of the skin to encourage collagen production. Depending on the type of laser used, this treatment can improve everything from fine lines to skin tone and texture. 
  • Injectable Fillers: Some fillers, particularly those containing hyaluronic acid, can stimulate collagen production in addition to providing immediate volume. This dual action helps improve skin elasticity and firmness over time. 

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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SPF Recommendations for Your SkinSize

Klira Personalised Skincare and Altruist Sunscreen have teamed up to explain how our products work in harmony with each SkinSize. Discover your SkinSize and see which SPF is recommended by the only suncare brand founded by a skin cancer surgeon and Consultant Dermatologist.

SkinSize™ /01 — Unpredictable

This SkinSize is particularly tricky, often presenting with a range of sensitivities. Managing one issue can sometimes exacerbate another, making it challenging to maintain balance.   
Risks: Hyper-sensitivity, Flushing, Acne, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Seborrhoeic dermatitis   
Goals: Protect the skin barrier, prevent sebum blockages, tackle uneven pigmentation, and prevent future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid because it is lightweight, broad-spectrum coverage (ultra-high UVA protection PPD52) that suits a variety of skin types and is designed with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /02 — Adaptable

With a strong skin barrier but prone to excess sebum and blocked pores, SkinSize™ 02 can develop brown marks after spots or injury.   
Risks: Acne, Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Perioral dermatitis, Seborrheic dermatitis   
Goals: Treat effectively through the strong barrier, prevent sebum blockages, and address uneven pigmentation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Primer because it is particularly suited for people with excess sebum. It is non greasy and provides excellent broad spectrum UV protection. 

SkinSize™ /03 — Keep Safe

This SkinSize requires careful management due to its sensitivity and tendency for excess sebum production. Certain products can lead to inflammation, complicating treatment.   
Risks: Acne, Early skin ageing, Rosacea, Seborrheic dermatitis   
Goals: Prevent sebum blockages, optimise the skin barrier, and protect against future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid because lightweight, broad-spectrum coverage (ultra-high UVA PPD52 protection) that suits a variety of skin types and is designed with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /04 — Easy Breezy… as long as you remember the SPF

Generally easy to manage, SkinSize™ 04 is primarily affected by blocked follicles due to excess sebum. Regular SPF is essential to maintain its health.   
Risks: Acne, Early wrinkles, Seborrhoeic dermatitis   
Goals: Use SPF diligently to prevent early ageing and manage sebum production.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Primer because it is particularly suited for people with excess sebum. It is non greasy and provides excellent broad spectrum UV protection. 

SkinSize™ /05 — Complicated

Characterised by sensitivity, dryness, and a tendency for hyperpigmentation, SkinSize™ 05 requires a delicate balance of hydration and barrier strengthening.   
Risks: Eczema, Hyperpigmentation, Flushing, Ingredient sensitivity, Early wrinkling, Rosacea, Melasma, Perioral dermatitis   
Goals: Hydrate and moisturise without irritation, strengthen the barrier, and protect against inflammation and hyperpigmentation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid or Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream (both ultra-high UVA protection PPD52). The Face Fluid is a more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the SPF50 Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. 

SkinSize™ /06 — Parched

Prone to dryness and sensitivity, SkinSize™ 06 needs careful hydration and protection against hyperpigmentation.   
Risks: Eczema, Hyperpigmentation, Ingredient sensitivity, Rosacea, Perioral dermatitis, Melasma   
Goals: Hydrate deeply, strengthen the barrier, and treat inflammation while preventing further damage.   
Your recommendation is the Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream because is features a very hydrating formula, alongside broad spectrum UV coverage. 

SkinSize™ /07 — Hyperactive

With fluctuating cellular activity, SkinSize™ 07 often experiences dryness, hyperpigmentation, and collagen breakdown.   
Risks: Hyperpigmentation, Solar lentigines, Early ageing, Melasma   
Goals: Ensure proper sun protection and treat areas of hyperpigmentation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the SPF50 Sunscreen Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. 

SkinSize™ /08 — Prized

This SkinSize features low sebum production with strong collagen synthesis but is prone to hyperpigmentation and dryness.   
Risks: Hyperpigmentation, Solar lentigines, Dryness, Dull skin, Melasma   
Goals: Maintain optimal hydration, treat hyperpigmentation, and protect from future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. Both provide high factor protection to protect against hyperpigmentation.  

SkinSize™ /09 — Delicate

Sensitive and often dry, SkinSize™ 09 is particularly vulnerable to UV damage and needs nourishing care.   
Risks: Eczema, Solar lentigines, Ingredient sensitivity, Early wrinkling, Rosacea, Perioral dermatitis   
Goals: Hydrate to reduce sensitivity, support collagen synthesis, and prevent inflammation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the Sunscreen Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. Both provide high factor protection and formulated with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /10 — Gifted

SkinSize™ 10 requires careful control to manage its tendency for flushes and flares, with a focus on maintaining hydration and reducing sensitivity.   
Risks: Eczema, Ingredient sensitivity, Rosacea, Perioral dermatitis   
Goals: Maintain a well-hydrated barrier, protect from future damage, and manage inflammation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is a more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the Sunscreen Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. Both provide high factor protection (with PPD52 ultra-high UVA protection) and formulated with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /11 — Fortunate

This SkinSize™ boasts a strong barrier but can be prone to dryness, often unnoticed. It’s important to keep it well-protected for the future.   
Risks: Solar lentigines, Dryness, Early wrinkling, Adult female acne, Early rosacea   
Goals: Keep the skin hydrated, support collagen, and protect against future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream because it comes in a lovely hydrating formula to help nourish the skin, alongside its fantastic broad spectrum UV coverage (PPD52).  

SkinSize™ /12 — The Jackpot

Typically problem-free, SkinSize™ 12 has a strong barrier and good collagen production but may suffer from dryness if neglected.   
Risks: Poor absorption of active ingredients, Dryness, Complacency with SPF, Adult female acne   
Goals: Address dryness, optimise hydration, and protect against future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Cream because it comes in a lovely hydrating formula to help nourish the skin, alongside its fantastic broad spectrum UV coverage (ultra-high PPD52).