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Have you ever wondered why you get wrinkles as you age? At the core, it has to do with naturally declining collagen levels. While this is a completely normal (and unavoidable) process, there are other factors at play (unrelated to age!) that can damage the collagen you already have, leading to premature wrinkles.

Here, find a few sneaky factors to note, plus how to maintain plump, firm skin for the long haul: 

UV rays negatively impact collagen through various mechanisms, board-certified dermatologist Gary Goldenberg, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York previously told mbg. This includes DNA changes to the cells that make collagen, as well as the production of free radicals that can affect collagen directly via oxidative stress.

“Less collagen is produced in high-stress states since more of the body’s resources are used to combat stress and the inflammation it produces,” Goldenberg says.

In case you aren’t aware, “Inflammation is one of the main enemies of any tissue,” Goldenberg notes—and the connective tissues fueled by collagen are no exception. Inflammatory diets, which often include eating plans that are high in sugar, simple carbohydrates, and processed meats, activate the immune system and promote inflammation throughout the body, board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D., once shared.

“This may interfere with healing, including healing of environmentally damaged skin cells,” he says. Sugar3, in particular, can be tough on collagen. “High sugar levels can lead to hardening and fragmentation of collagen, weakening the skin foundation, and promoting premature skin aging,” Zeichner adds.

How to deal

Essentially, there are more than a couple of reasons your collagen levels don’t stay in tiptop shape throughout your life, some unrelated to age entirely. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t combat the decline. 

Many experts recommend adding a collagen supplement to your routine, as research shows that they can stimulate the skin’s fibroblasts to encourage the natural collagen production process4. While they won’t protect your skin from the sun or fend off stress, collagen supplements can help support your internal collagen bank.

The takeaway

While age certainly plays a role in declining collagen levels, it’s not the only thing impacting your body’s collagen bank.

Do your best to protect your skin from excess UV exposure, consume anti-inflammatory foods, ease daily stress when you can, and add a collagen supplement to your routine for extra support. Believe it or not, these aren’t the only reasons why collagen declines—check out our full guide for more tips.