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!

Black Friday is here, and at Dr. Leah Clinic, we're thrilled to unveil our incredible deals to Glow Up your holiday season. Over the next three days, we are offering exclusive discounts on a range of treatments and products designed to rejuvenate and enhance your natural beauty. Join us as we delve into each fantastic offer and the treatment types.

Offer 1: 2 for 1 on Hydr02 Facial

Discover your best skin yet with this ‘5 Star Facial’ perfect for those seeking a radiant and youthful complexion. The Hydr02 facial is a rejuvenating treatment that combines exfoliation, oxygen infusion, and serum application to hydrate and revitalize the skin. It begins with cleansing and gentle exfoliation to remove impurities and dead skin cells. Oxygen infusion delivers nourishing oxygen to the skin's surface, while customized serums with vitamins and hyaluronic acid deeply hydrate and address specific skin concerns. The result? instant hydration, plumpness, and a refreshed complexion, making it a popular choice for an immediate skin boost that works perfectly for your party season prep. So, if you are looking for smooth glowing skin for your Christmas doo or New Years Celebration take advantage of this offer today! Call to book your 2 Hydr02 facials for the price of one today!

Offer 2: 20% Off Morpheus8 Treatment

Are you looking to turn back the clock on aging? Our Morpheus8 Treatment is the answer. At Dr Leah Clinic this is our top pick for a very special Christmas gift for your loved ones. The revolutionary non-surgical Morpheus8 procedure loved by celebrities like Victoria Beckham uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, to significantly tighten skin, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles from just 3 sessions. It’s also a great option for helping to diminish the look of scarring. Achieve smoother, firmer skin with 20% off during our Black Friday extravaganza. Book here today!

Offer 3: 20% Off Dermapen 

The Dermapen treatment is a tried-and-tested method for tackling fine lines, pesky large pores and acne scarring. With precision and care, tiny micro-needles create controlled micro-injuries that stimulate collagen and elastin production to promote plump, dewy, and youthful skin. Like Morpheus8 this treatment is an excellent option for helping with scarring. This Black Friday, enjoy a 20% discount on Dermapen to reveal your skin's natural beauty. Book here today!

Offer 4: 15% Off Obagi C Serum Line 

For a radiant complexion that glows from within, the Obagi C Serum Line is a must-have. Packed with powerful antioxidants, these serums brighten, rejuvenate, and protect your skin with a powerful punch of that hero ingredient – Vitamin C. During our Black Friday sale, enjoy a 15% discount on three different strengths of this transformative skincare essential. Buy Obagi Vitamin C Serum (10 percent stength)  Obagi Vitamin C Serum (15 percent strength) Obagi Vitamin C Serum (20 percent strength)

Offer 5: 15% Off Obagi Elastiderm Line

Elevate your skincare routine with the scientifically-backed Elastiderm range from Obagi. This advanced skincare collection is meticulously designed to enhance skin firmness and resilience, particularly focusing on the delicate eye area. Clinical studies have demonstrated remarkable results with the Elastiderm range with participants showing a significant reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In a 9-week study, users of the Elastiderm Eye Cream observed a 46% increase in the elasticity of their skin, coupled with a 16% decrease in the visibility of wrinkles. This potent formula not only aids in repairing existing signs of aging but also helps in preventing future skin degradation. Yes these products ARE a financial investment but also an opportunity to invest in your skin's health. Choose a product backed by rigorous scientific research and proven results, and see fine lines disappear before the New Year begins with our 15 percent off offer this Black Friday. Buy Obagi Elastiderm Eye Treatment Cream, Elastiderm Eye Serum and Obagi Facial Serum

Offer 6: Up to 50% Off Dr. Leah Products

Our commitment to beauty extends beyond treatments. Dr. Leah Clinic is proud to offer a range of premium skincare products meticulously formulated in collaboration with Dr. Leah herself. 7 years in the making this luxurious skincare transformation system was born out of Leah’s clients looking for premium skin care products focused on clean ingredients. The result is a cleanser and moisturiser that feel silky and luxurious on the skin and host a range of cleansing and moisturising ingredients such as Jasmine to calm and soothe the skin – perfect for rejuvenating dry dull skin during these harsh winter months. The Dr Leah line, is suitable for all skin types is Paraben free, Vegan friendly and suitable during pregnancy and nursing. This Black Friday event, enjoy an exclusive 30% discount on all Dr. Leah cleanser and moisturiser with an impressive 50% off the Dr Leah Bundle making it a perfect stocking present to achieve your best skin yet. Buy Dr Leah Skincare Cleanser & Moisturiser Bundle (50% off), Dr Leah Facial Moisturiser (30% off), Dr Leah Cleanser (30% off)

Dr Leah Black Friday offers last till Cyber Monday so be sure to take advantage of these amazing savings and book today!

Dermapen is a micro-needling facial that is great for reducing signs of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring and improvement of the complexion of the skin. Micro-needling also stimulates collagen through the skin which causes anti-ageing results such as tightening, plumping and improvement of the skin appearance.

Before (left) and after (right) a course of 6 Dermapen treatments with Uber peel.

The Dermapen works by providing a fast response through the segmented delivery of microneedles to the skin. This causes micro-injuries to the outer and inner layers of the skin. As a result, the body's natural healing response is triggered which causes the skin to rejuvenate itself.

Book a Dermapen Treatment

What is Dermapen used to treat?

Fine lines and wrinkles.

Our skin's healing process slows down as we age. Dermapen creates micro-injuries to our skin which triggers our body's natural healing response. When collagen and elastin are stimulated through this healing response our skin will look refreshed and plumped, which will reduce the appearance of any fine lines and wrinkles.

Our therapists can target fine lines and wrinkles by repeating the Dermapen treatment in specific concerned areas, once the course has finished the skin will appear plump, healthy and smooth.

Scarring (Acne Scarring).

In terms of scarring Dermapen uses the same principle as reducing fine lines and wrinkles. By triggering the body's healing response new cells are made and stimulated, meaning scarring, especially pitted acne scarring skin is rejuvenated and encouraged to heal with a smoother more subtle appearance.

It is important to note that commitment and a course of sessions is necessary for scarring, our therapists can provide bespoke scarring plans to give you the best results for your scarring concerns.

Large pores and skin texture.

Enlarged pores can be a concern of many of our clients, micro-needling is a great treatment to reduce overall pore size. As the microthin needles penetrate the skin this activates the production of healing with results in a smooth and tightened skin appearance, reducing any signs of enlarged pores.

To book your Dermapen treatment with Dr Leah Clinics, contact us today or use the link below.

Book a Dermapen Treatment

What Does a Mummy Tummy Makeover Consist Of?

Dr Leah’s ‘Mummy Tummy Makeover’ is a new skin tightening treatment for the stomach which uses a combination of medical laser plus radiofrequency treatments over a course of 8 sessions to target the appearance of stretchmarks and tighten loose skin. Dr Leah created the new treatment in response to seeing a huge surge in the number of people presenting with excess skin and stretchmarks following extensive weight loss over a short period of time, the makeover uses the latest in non-surgical technology to tighten loose skin and treat the appearance of stretchmarks with no downtime or scarring. 

Our founder and Medical Director, Dr Leah, explains: “We have seen a dramatic rise in the number of clients requesting treatment for excess skin and striae (stretchmarks) following dramatic weight loss. We are in the era of ‘body transformations’ - new mums seem to be returning to their pre-pregnancy weight in very short periods of time and social media is awash with examples of people who have had dramatic weight loss transformations. What is not often highlighted is the effect of such dramatic fluctuations in weight on the skin- the striae (stretchmarks) which can be caused by rupture of elastin fibres from excessive stretching and the residual lax skin which can often remain. It is not uncommon for my clients, including Clare, who went from a size 22 to a size 10, to actually tell me that they preferred their appearance before losing weight to the appearance after. It can be a very disheartening thing to go through the effort and commitment involved in losing weight only to still feel unhappy with your appearance, albeit for a different reason. Until recently surgery has been the only real option to remove excess skin– this comes with the risk of general anaesthetic and scarring, there is an associated recovery time and reasonable financial cost involved. At Dr Leah Clinics we are passionate about innovation in the non surgical cosmetic space and are keen to bring the most advanced treatments to a UK audience.  Advances in recent years in non-surgical aesthetic medicine mean that we have been able to create the Mummy Tummy Makeover which is a simple and non invasive course of treatments to tighten loose skin on the tummy and reduce the appearance of stretchmarks without the need to go under the knife, without downtime and without scarring. It has proved incredibly popular.”

How does it work?

The process of undergoing a Mummy Tummy Makeover involves several appointments; 

• Appointment 1 Initial Body Consultation - FREE

During your Initial Body Consultation, a patch test is completed to ensure suitability for the treatment course. 48 hours after your initial consultation, your treatment course will begin. 

• Appointment 2 - One iPixel or Dermapen Session

iPixel 

As we age, the tone and texture of our skin changes. Fine lines and wrinkles begin to appear, age spots and blemishes may develop, and the texture of our skin can become coarse and uneven. To combat this, we use light and laser-based skin resurfacing technologies to smooth out and balance the skin texture, tone and elasticity. Our iPixel employs a fractional delivery method which creates pixel-sized perforations in the skin, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This allows the skin to heal faster as the epidermis is regenerated. 

Dermapen 

Dermapen is the industry leading microneeding device, it is a skin repair treatment that can help to significantly improve the appearance of ageing or scarred skin. It uses tiny needles attached to a pen device to gently puncture the skin causing a series of traumatic punctures on the skin. The result of this is that the skin responds to this by naturally producing collagen and elastin to repair itself. The production of collagen and elastin work to smooth and firm the skin, plumping out deep lines and improving the indented or red appearance of scars and stretch marks.

• Appointments 3 to 8 - Six Radiofrequency Sessions 

Radiofrequency

Our radiofrequency utilises electrodes to deliver the Radiofrequency energy under the skin (which is controlled and limited to the treatment area). Radio frequency helps to concentrate the body’s collagen fibres and encourages the quick regeneration of the collagen and elastin that we lose as we age. This results in a firmer, more youthful look.

• Appointment 8 - One iPixel or Dermapen 

 Finally, the area of concern is treated with another powerful iPixel or Dermapen session to further enhance the tightening effect provided by the Radiofrequency. 

 Click here to see the treatments in action!

Clare's Story

“After I gave birth to my little girl when I was 18 years old, my weight quickly ballooned and this left a lot of stretch marks. I had my son 5 years later and at my biggest I was a size 22. I have worked really hard and I have been able to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight, a healthy size 8. I did it through diet and exercise and I have sustained my weight at this level for several years now. Losing the weight was one of the hardest things I have done, it required an entire lifestyle change but I was prepared for it – what I was not prepared for is the stretch marks and loose skin I was left with. I feel healthier now and I am confident with how I look with clothes on but my stomach looked better when I was a size 22! No one ever talks about the fact that your tummy may actually look worse after you lose the weight!

I remember trying on a bikini for the first time after I had reached my goal weight, and thinking to myself that my tummy looks like an 80 year old’s, I felt really disappointed. I thought to myself I have just replaced a big belly with a wrinkled one and neither looked good!

I decided last summer to do something about it, I started to explore options and actually went for a plastic surgery consultation to find out about going under the knife to remove the loose skin but after the consultation scared me, I didn’t feel I could justify the risk of a general anaesthetic when I have two children or the time off work to recover and the amount of scarring I would have and the cost was thousands of pounds.

Realising surgery was not going to be for me, I began to look into other options, I researched non-surgical clinics and found Dr Leah Clinics. I remembered Dr Leah from The Apprentice and knew she was a medical doctor, I also saw her clinics had won awards so I knew they would be offering the best treatments available. I went to speak to Dr Leah about my tummy and see if she could help. Dr Leah immediately put me at ease, she was lovely, she listened to my concerns and made me feel that I was not the only person who had this problem and that there was hope without having to go under the knife. Dr Leah recommended the Mummy Tummy Makeover for me, which involved treating my stretchmarks and loose skin in a combination of 8 treatments (one per week for 8 weeks). The treatment was a mixture of medical laser treatments and radiofrequency based treatments. I was slightly nervous on the day of my first treatment, more about showing my stomach to the aesthetic therapist but she was really nice and put me totally at ease and the treatment was not painful at all. There is a slight tingling sensation when having the medical laser and I had some scabs on my tummy for a few days after, where my stretchmarks had been. The Radiofrequency treatment was actually really relaxing. Each treatment took around 45 minutes and I was able to return to work and normal life immediately after all treatments and no one knew I was having them!

I started to see the results after about my third treatment, by my 6^th I was really impressed and now I have completed the Mummy Tummy Makeover I am absolutely delighted with the results. I know my stomach will never be ‘perfect’ but for the first time ever I feel confident to have my tummy on show and will be wearing a bikini this summer!”

 Click here to read Clare's story on The MailOnline!

Summary of Treatment

Procedure Time

Consultation – 30 Minutes 

iPixel - 30 Minutes

Dermapen - 40 Minutes 

Radiofrequency – 40 Minutes 

Back to Work

Immediate estimated

Anaesthetic

None required

Full Recovery

iPixel – Scabs & Dryness 7 – 14 Days

Radiofrequency – 24 hours estimated

Dermapen – 24 hours estimated

Suitable for

All skin types

What are the benefits?

•     No surgery

•     Pain free

•     No risk of scarring

•     No recovery time

•     Effective results

•     Medical grade technologies

•     Suitable for all skin types

What is the cost?
x2 iPixel (£800) & x6 Radiofrequency (£900) Usually = £1700

Package Deal = £990

x2 Dermapen (£460) & x6 Radiofrequency (£900) Usually = £1360

Package Deal = £990

To book in for a free consultation, call us on 020 7877 5999 or email info@drleah.co.uk. 

Would you like to improve the depth of facial deep lines and wrinkles? Shrink open pores or improve the pitted appearance of acne scars? Dermapen facial treatment can do this whilst also giving the skin a rejuvenated, fresh appearance!

JANUARY 2019 SPECIAL OFFER: 

1 Session

£160 (usually £230)

3 Sessions

£450 (usually £600)

Dermapen is the industry leading microneeding device, which is a skin repair treatment that can help to significantly improve the appearance of ageing or scarred skin. It uses tiny needles attached to a pen device to gently puncture the skin causing a series of traumatic punctures on the skin. The result of this is that the skin responds to this by naturally producing collagen and elastin to repair itself. The production of collagen and elastin work to smooth and firm the skin, plumping out deep lines and improving the indented or red appearance of scars and stretch marks. 

The process of having Dermapen at Dr Leah Cosmetic Skin Clinics will involve an initial face to face consultation with one of our expertly trained Skin Specialists, who will assess your skin and will be able to advise how many Dermapen sessions you will need to achieve your skin goals (usually, this is between 3-6 treatments). 

Dermapen is less invasive than many alternative solutions and you can normally return to your daily activities straight away after treatment, although you may have some mild redness or swelling. 

Dermapen is an effective treatment for the following concerns;

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Acne scarring

• Facial scarring

• Enlarged pores

As well as the face, Dermapen is also suitable for the following concerns on the body;

• Sagging skin

• Stretch marks

How does it work? 

Dermapen uses a microneedling technique to create small, gentle punctures in the skin - the majority of which are simply pushing your pores open temporarily. Your skin reacts to any injury by initiating the healing process, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. 

How many treatments will I need? 

Results are visible following 6 weeks after your initial appointment. For best results, a course of 3 -8 treatments are recommended depending on your skin concerns; 
Skin rejuvenation & Large Pores – 3 treatments recommended 
Acne Scarring & Surgical Scars – 6 treatments recommended 
Loose Skin - 6-8 treatments recommended 

How long will it take? 

The Dermapen session itself lasts for around 20 minutes (although this may vary depending on which part of your body we treat. For example, a stomach treatment will take more time than a facial treatment.)

Who is not suitable for this treatment? 

Before any treatment you will be given the opportunity to consult with a member of the Dr Leah team, who will be able to advise further on any concerns you may have prior to commencing treatment. However, this treatment is not suitable for pregnant and breast-feeding women and those that suffer from keloid scarring.

To book in for a free consultation, call us on 020 7877 5999or email info@drleah.co.uk.