ClearSK's physician shares top tips on delaying signs of ageing & all things collagen
As Hollywood actress Julianne Moore said, "It is a privilege to grow older." True that. However, one of the biggest downsides to growing older is the signs of it, from our face to our body functions. We're all getting there – creaky bones, droopy eyes, sagging jawline, open pores, and wrinkles around the eyes becoming more apparent as our collagen production decreases with age. So are there things we can actively do to delay the signs of ageing, especially on the face?
I got in touch with Dr Shiau Ee Leng, Chief Medical Director and aesthetic physician of ClearSK Aesthetic Clinics, with more than 22 years of experience in the aesthetics industry, and queried her on all things collagen as well as tips and tricks to maintaining a youthful appearance for as long as we possibly can. Look out for an exclusive promotion Dr Shiau has prepared for Yahoo readers at the end of this article.
True beauty is about feeling good and living well.Dr Shiau Ee Leng, Chief Medical Director and aesthetic physician of ClearSK Aesthetic Clinics
Yahoo Life Singapore: What is collagen, and why is it important?
Dr Shiau Ee Leng: Collagen is part of the human body's structural extracellular matrix, or ECM, and comprises protein molecules. It provides structure and support (or strength) to our skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues.
Why does our body’s collagen production decrease as we grow older? When should we start supplementing collagen?
As we grow older, our body undergoes intrinsic ageing, determined by an individual’s biological clock, where less collagen is produced and existing collagen breaks down faster. There is also extrinsic ageing caused by external factors such as UV exposure, dry climate, smoking and lack of rest. In our practice, we identified 26 as when ageing starts. This is when one should begin adopting anti-ageing measures to delay the effects of ageing.
My friends and colleagues swear by collagen drinks and powder as a beauty secret. As an aesthetic physician, what are your thoughts on ingestible collagen?
A collagen drink is like a protein drink when consumed. Our gastric juices mainly break it down into amino acids before they are absorbed into our bodies. For collagen to be truly absorbed in its active form, it must be encapsulated properly for oral consumption.
Instead of pricey collagen drinks, I recommend taking multivitamins with trace elements of collagen and complemented by a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables and meats. Vegans may consider adding supplements like iron and vitamin B to their diet.
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Eucerin, Daily Protection Face Lotion & Sunscreen, SPF 30, Fragrance-Free, 118 ml, S$15.56
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What about the topical application of collagen, such as collagen creams? Are they effective?
Topical products, such as collagen creams, are poorly absorbed in the skin due to the keratin layer of the epidermis. Only 3-5% of the creams are absorbed into the skin. People will notice that their skin is moisturised when the cream is applied, but these results will vanish once it is washed off.
Which foods are rich in collagen and can help improve skin elasticity?
I recommend high-protein foods like fish, poultry, meat, eggs, dairy, legumes, and soy, as they contain amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
Are there any discerning differences in consuming collagen in the morning or evening, on an empty or full stomach?
Generally speaking, supplements consumed on an empty stomach are better absorbed by the body, so you may take them early in the morning or at night just before you sleep.
Can you share some beauty tips or beauty faux pas with Yahoo readers?
The best beauty tip is to start implementing anti-ageing measures early. You will enjoy faster and better results and even save money in the long term. In addition, minor aesthetic treatments and enhancements performed regularly go a long way in retaining your youth.
What treatments do ClearSK offer for maintaining taut skin?
Our latest collagen treatment combines Sculptra and Thermage FLX Facelift. By combining both treatments, they work hand-in-hand to stimulate even more natural collagen growth than when the treatments are being used separately. The result is improved skin texture, softened lines, firmness and a younger yet natural-looking appearance. The collagen renewal processes have been tested and proven by scientists and doctors through many years of research.
Suitable for all skin types, Sculptra is an injectable dermal filler, a collagen bio-stimulator, that activates the skin’s ability to produce collagen, restores the skin’s structure and renews its natural firmness. Sculptra is equipped with skin-toning properties that renew skin thickness and firmness. It also corrects shallow to deep wrinkles and folds in a gradual and long-lasting way by stimulating natural collagen growth.
Thermage Facelift is a non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) therapy that delivers heating energy to the deeper layers of the skin while concurrently cooling the surface of the skin. As a result, it tightens the underlying layers of your skin while concurrently giving it a boost in natural collagen production.
Results last for up to 27 months.
About ClearSK
ClearSK has been serving satisfied clients for over 15 years and has grown into an international aesthetic medical group practice that is now based in Singapore, Shanghai and Hangzhou. Manned by Founder Dr Shiau Ee Leng and her team of experienced aesthetic surgeons and doctors, ClearSK offers high-quality aesthetic and plastic surgery services and has won multiple awards in Singapore and Shanghai. In Singapore, they have five clinics emphasising higher-end aesthetic treatments. The clinics offer over 100 treatment options to treat various issues, including sagging skin, wrinkles, acne, and even reversing hair loss. The newest treatment – Sculptra X Thermage – is gaining awareness and demand.
ClearSK is at Novena Medical Center, 10 Sinaran Drive, #10-01, Singapore 307506.
Make your appointments at hotline 97108808 or check out https://cskclinics.com/.
The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider on queries regarding a medical condition. Any action taken by you in reliance on or in connection with this content is solely at your own risk.
