Collagen banking is an anti-ageing strategy that involves improving your collagen production when you are young, then storing this collagen in your skin for the future to help it stay firmer for longer.

Collagen has long been the MVP of the beauty world, with countless products and treatments promising to harness its skin-rejuvenating powers. From supplements to topical skincare and advanced aesthetic procedures, the allure of collagen as the secret to youthful skin is undeniable.

Now, a new term is capturing attention as a revolutionary approach to future-proofing your skincare: collagen banking.

Dr Leah presents...your guide to collagen banking

1. What is collagen?
2. What is collagen banking?
3. Collagen treatments
4. Benefits of collagen banking
5. How often do I need treatments?
6. How much does collagen banking cost?

What is collagen?

Collagen is a complex protein that forms the essential scaffolding of our skin, providing it with structure, strength, and elasticity. Imagine it as the underlying support network that keeps your skin plump, smooth, and resilient.

Collagen is responsible for maintaining our skin's youthful appearance by preventing sagging, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Our collagen production peaks in our early twenties, creating a robust and supple skin structure. However, as we age, this production gradually declines. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found a significant decrease in collagen synthesis starting around the age of 30, accelerating in the mid-40s.

Don't let this scare you, as there's already a solution: collagen banking.

What is collagen banking?

Put simply, collagen banking is a way to prevent wrinkles and acheive firmer skin.

Collagen Banking is a proactive approach to skincare that aims to build up your skin's collagen reserves while you're young, to help your skin stay firm as you age. The concept is simple: since collagen gives your skin its structure and elasticity, you want to keep it for as long as possible. As we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and loss of firmness.

Other factors can contribute to early or increased collagen loss, including:

• Sun exposure: UV rays damage collagen fibers, leading to wrinkles and sagging.
• Smoking: Smoking impairs collagen production and accelerates skin aging.
• Pollution: Environmental pollutants can also damage collagen.
• Genetics: Your skin's natural collagen production rate is partially determined by your genes.

By addressing these factors and incorporating collagen-boosting treatments, you can help maintain your skin's youthful appearance. By stimulating collagen in collagen banking treatments, you create a "savings account" of collagen that will help your skin stay looking its best for years to come.

It's never too early to start collagen banking. In fact, the earlier you start, the better. However, most experts recommend starting in your 20s or 30s, when your natural collagen production begins to decline.

Collagen treatments

Interested in collagen banking? There are a variety of treatments that can help you build up your collagen reserves. Some of the most popular options which we offer at Dr Leah Clinic include:

• Ultherapy: This non-surgical treatment uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin, while also stimulating collagen production. Read more on Ultherapy here.
• Morpheus8: This minimally invasive treatment combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, further stimulating collagen production. Read more on Morpheus8 here.
• PRP: This treatment involves injecting your own platelet-rich plasma into the skin, which contains growth factors that stimulate collagen production. Read more on PRP here.
• Thread Lift: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting tiny threads under the skin to lift and tighten sagging skin. Depending on the type of thread lift this treatment not only promotes immediate lifting but the production of collagen in the skin for long-lasting anti-aging results. Read more on thread lifts here.
• Polynucleotides: These are DNA-based molecules that stimulate collagen production and improve skin hydration. Read more on Polynucelotides here.
• Collagen Stimulating Filler (Ellanse): This unique filler not only adds immediate volume and contour but also acts as a collagen stimulator, gradually boosting your skin's natural production for longer-lasting, more youthful results. Unlike traditional fillers, Ellanse offers a dual-action approach, providing both instant gratification and progressive skin improvement. Read more on Ellanse here.
• Dermapen Microneedling: This minimally invasive procedure involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the body's natural healing process, which includes the production of new collagen and elastin. Read more on Dermapen here.

Benefits of collagen banking

There are many benefits to starting a collagen banking regimen early on. These include:

• Improved skin texture and tone: Collagen banking can help to improve the overall texture and tone of your skin, making it look more radiant and youthful.
• Reduced wrinkles and fine lines: By boosting collagen production, you can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Increased skin firmness and elasticity: Collagen banking can help to improve your skin's firmness and elasticity, giving you a more youthful appearance.
• Prevention of age-related skin damage: By building up your collagen reserves now, you can help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of aging.

How often do I need treatments?

The frequency of your treatments will depend on the type of treatment you choose and your individual needs. Most people find that they need a series of treatments initially, followed by maintenance treatments every few months.

How much does collagen banking cost?

Collagen banking's cost will vary depending on the type of treatment you choose and the number of sessions you need, as well as your goals. You can learn about our costs and pricing here. As an example, collagen banking would cost you £2200 if you wanted a full face Ultherapy treatment. If you wanted a PRP face treatment instead, this would cost $550, or £500 per session if in a package. You'll also need a consultation for any treatment. We offer free consults on certain treatments, so check our price list for options. Booking in with one of experienced dermatologists at Dr Leah Clinic is the best route to discuss your options and develop a personalised treatment plan for firmer skin.

If you want to know more about collagen banking, including how much collagen banking costs, please contact the Dr Leah team today. We're experienced, friendly and happy to help!

Everyone here at Dr Leah Clinics was saddened to learn of the immediate closure of all SK:N clinics throughout the UK on the 17th July.

Dr Leah Clinics would like to offer SK:N clients 20% OFF their first treatment at Dr Leah Clinics.

We understand how stressful this will be for SK:N clients who are currently undergoing treatment or who were planning to book treatments in the near future. We also understand how unsettling and inconvenient it can be to change clinics when you have an established relationship with your injector. To help ease the transition, we would like to invite you to Dr Leah Clinics and offer you 20% OFF* your first treatment with us - see below on how to book and redeem your ‘SK:N20’ discount.

HOW TO REDEEM YOUR SK:N20 DISCOUNT AT DR. LEAH CLINICS

20% OFF INJECTABLES

To get 20% off your first injectables treatment with Dr Leah Clinics, call us on 0207 877 5999 or book online with one of our clinic doctors by selecting appointment type SK:N Clinic Injectables 20%.

Book your FREE injectables consultation >>

Includes Anti-Wrinkle Injections, Dermal filler, Profhilo and PRP

50% OFF LASER HAIR REMOVAL

To redeem 50% OFF your Laser Hair Removal package, please email info@drleah.co.uk with the subject heading SK:N 20% and state in the email which treatment you require and your preferred Dr Leah clinic location (Loughton, Baker Street or Moorgate).

Book your FREE consultation >>

20% OFF SKIN TREATMENTS
To redeem 20% off your first aesthetic therapist treatment, please email info@drleah.co.uk with the subject heading SK:N 20% and state in the email which treatment you require and your preferred Dr Leah clinic location (Loughton, Baker Street or Moorgate).

Book your FREE skin consultation >>

SK:N clients can get 20% off Skin Laser, Dermapen Microneedling, Peels, Hydr02 Facial and body treatments.

For more information about our SK:N patient offer, please call Dr. Leah Clinics on 0207 877 5999.

*This discount is valid until 30th September 2024 and is available for first-time treatments only. This offer is not applicable to existing clients of Dr. Leah Clinics. Treatments not available at SK:N clinics (such as Morpheus8 and Ultherapy) are excluded from this offer. Regulated activities such as thread lifts, mole removal, and hyperhidrosis treatments and Lanluma are also excluded. The discount cannot be combined with other offers and does not apply to treatments from our Medical Director Dr Leah Totton or our Associate Medical Director Dr Deepa Panchalingam. Additionally,

Gone are the days of a "one-size-fits-all" solution - men's skin has unique needs, and we understand that at Dr Leah Clinic! That is  why we are proud to introduce Dr. Bassam Band, our globally recognised expert in male facial aesthetics. And to celebrate, this Men's Health week we have curated a selection of treatments to address the unique concerns of our male clientele, ensuring subtle and natural-looking male rejuvenation results.

Why Men Deserve Specialised Care

Men's skin is about 25% thicker than women's, thanks to higher testosterone levels. This translates to increased oil production, clogged pores, and a higher risk of acne. Additionally, men lose collagen faster, leading to deeper wrinkles and lines. Shaving irritation further impacts skin health, and hair loss is another concern entirely. By age 50, roughly 50% of men will experience some degree of hair thinning, according to the American Hair Loss Association.

At Dr. Leah Clinic we have curated a list of our key treatments to combat these specific concerns reported by our male customers:

1.Blackhead extraction facial: 

While men's skin produces more oil than women's, it can still be prone to dehydration as well as blackheads and acne. This is because that thicker outer layer, while good for barrier function, can also trap moisture and prevent proper hydration. This dehydration can manifest as flakiness, irritation, and even the appearance of deeper wrinkles. That's where our Blackhead Extraction Facial Treatment comes in. This treatment tackles blackheads, oiliness, and other common male skin concerns with a multi-step approach:

• Deep Cleansing: We start with a deep cleanse specifically formulated for men's skin. This removes excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to blackhead formation.
• Exfoliation: Followed by a double cleanse with medical exfoliators, Microdermabrasion treatment using diamond microdermabrasion and a Mini-peel, exfoliator or steam treatment (depending on skin type) applied to aid todraw blackheads out of the skin
• Expert Blackhead Extraction: Our experienced aesthetician will then use gentle extractions to remove blackheads from your nose, chin, and forehead. Unlike harsh pore strips or at-home methods, this professional extraction minimizes the risk of scarring and irritation.
• Hydration Tailored for Men: Following the extractions, we'll apply a selection of hydrating products specifically chosen for men's skin. These products are lightweight and oil-free, providing essential moisture without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. This targeted hydration helps to balance the oil production in men's skin, preventing future breakouts and promoting a healthier, more resilient complexion. Find out more on BlackHead Extraction facials HERE today.

2. Dermapen Microneedling & Subcision for Deep Scarring: This powerful combination effectively combats stubborn acne and acne scars and promotes a clearer complexion. A male-based study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Dermatology found that microneedling significantly reduced acne severity men by an average of 55% after just three treatments. Here's how it works:

• Microneedling: We use a Dermapen, a state-of-the-art device, to create tiny controlled channels in your skin. This triggers the body's natural healing response, boosting collagen production. This is particularly beneficial for men, as increased collagen helps diminish acne scars and smooth out the rough, uneven texture often associated with deeper scars. 
• Subcision (if needed): In some cases, acne scars can be tethered to underlying tissue, making them appear deeper. For these stubborn scars, Dr. Leah Clinic may recommend subcision. This minimally invasive procedure uses a specialized needle to loosen this tethered scar tissue, allowing the skin to rise to a smoother level.Find out more on Dermapen HERE today.

3. Male Facial Rejuvenation by Dr. Bassam: 

 Our renowned specialist, Dr. Bassam Band, offers a unique approach to facial rejuvenation specifically designed for men. Here's what sets it apart:

• 7-Point Injectable Approach: Dr. Bassam targets areas prone to volume loss in men with strategically placed injectable fillers. This approach restores a more youthful, balanced appearance while maintaining a natural, masculine look. Men tend to lose volume differently than women, so this tailored approach is crucial for optimal results. 
• Polynucleotide Therapy: As an alternative to traditional anti-wrinkle relaxing treatments, Dr. Bassam may incorporate polynucleotide therapy. This innovative treatment offers a subtler approach to reducing fine lines while still achieving noticeable results. It's a perfect option for men who want to soften wrinkles without compromising their natural facial expressions. Find out more on Polynucleotides HERE
• Facial Harmonisation & Jawline Enhancement: Dr Bassam will evaluate your facial structure to see if strategically placed dermal fillers can enhance your look, such as sharpening and squaring of the jawline, which is often seen as a desirable masculine feature. Through careful filler placement, Dr. Bassam can subtly define your jawline for a more balanced and sculpted appearance.  Find out more about Jawline filler HERE

4. Hair Loss Treatment:

With a significant proportion of men attending Dr. Leah Clinic with hair-loss concerns, we understand the impact hair-loss can have on your confidence. That's why we offer a comprehensive hair loss treatment plan specifically designed to stimulate hair growth and combat thinning, all while creating a healthy scalp environment for optimal results. Our plan combines PRP therapy and polynucleotides to stimulate hair growth and combat thinning. Deep exfoliation with the Hydro2 system further encourages a healthy scalp environment for optimal hair growth. 

Here's a breakdown of the powerful combination therapies used in our Hair Loss Treatment:

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: This innovative treatment harnesses the power of your own blood. A small amount of blood is drawn and processed to isolate Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). PRP is a concentrated source of growth factors, which are natural proteins that play a vital role in stimulating cell regeneration and tissue repair. When injected into the scalp, PRP stimulates dormant hair follicles and promotes healthier hair growth. Studies have shown PRP therapy to be effective in increasing hair density and thickness in men. Find out more about PRP for hair HERE
• Polynucleotide Therapy: This cutting-edge treatment utilises polynucleotides, which are naturally occurring molecules that help improve cellular function and communication. In the context of hair loss, polynucleotides work by promoting blood flow to the scalp and nourishing hair follicles. This improved blood flow delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the follicles, stimulating hair growth and potentially slowing down the process of hair thinning.
• Deep Exfoliation with the Hydro2 System: A healthy scalp environment is crucial for optimal hair growth. Dead skin cells and buildup can clog hair follicles and hinder hair growth. Our Hydro2 system provides a deep, yet gentle exfoliation of the scalp. This removes dead skin cells and debris, promoting better penetration of the PRP and polynucleotide treatments. Additionally, the Hydro2 system can stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, further enhancing the effectiveness of the overall hair loss treatment plan. Find out more on Hydro2 HERE

The Dr. Leah Clinic Difference At Dr. Leah Clinic, we understand the importance of natural-looking results - whether you're battling acne, experiencing early signs of aging, or seeking to address hair loss, we have a solution for you.