Sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption, and diet are just a few of the factors that influence how you age. The physical changes your body goes through becomes noticeable around the mid- to late-20s, and this is because collagen, a protein that's responsible for healthy joints and skin elasticity, depletes around that time.
Collagen is a protein that we produce naturally; according to registered dietitian Tony Castillo, “it as the glue that holds everything in the body together.” Researchers discovered that most people lose roughly 1% of their collagen each year, however the rate of collagen depletion varies depending on your lifestyle and how often you expose yourself to UV rays.
According to Dr. Shari Marchbein, "the sun is the ultimate ager," thus you should wear a hat and at least SPF 30 regularly to prevent collagen depletion. To increase collagen production, consume more vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits and more protein-rich foods, and if you want a quick and easy fix, take collagen supplements to improve skin suppleness and smooth fine wrinkles.