By Dr. Gina Maccarone, MD, FACS, FAACS
Halloween has always been one of my favorite times of the year! The costumes, the pumpkins, the playful spirit, and of course…the candy. But here’s the little secret your skin wishes it could whisper: sugar is no treat for collagen. And when it comes to looking youthful, collagen is the real superstar.
Collagen is the protein that keeps skin smooth, firm, and plump, the very thing that helps you look vibrant and refreshed. But when sugar sneaks into your system (whether from candy, baked goods, or sugary drinks), it binds to collagen fibers through a process called glycation. Think of glycation as a trick in disguise. It tastes sweet in the moment, but behind the scenes, it’s stiffening and weakening collagen, leading to sagging skin, fine lines, and dullness over time. Skittles don’t scare me, but glycation does.
Now, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favorite Halloween treats. Life is all about balance. A little indulgence here and there won’t ruin your skin. But over time, a diet heavy in sugar can accelerate the natural aging process, leaving skin less resilient and more prone to wrinkles. Candy may disappear from the bowl overnight, but the effects of sugar on your skin can linger much longer.
The good news? Collagen is also the ultimate “treat,” and protecting it can make a world of difference in how your skin looks and feels. Daily sunscreen, a protein-rich diet, and consistent skincare go a long way toward supporting collagen health. In my practice, the most powerful way I help patients restore collagen’s support is through surgical artistry, procedures like facelifts and neck lifts. These approaches go beyond surface-level fixes. By addressing the deeper tissues, they reposition and refine your natural structure, creating results that look refreshed, balanced, and long-lasting. It’s not about masking aging. It’s about revealing your most authentic, confident self.
I always remind patients: skincare isn’t about gimmicks or quick fixes. It’s about honoring your investment in yourself and protecting what makes you feel most confident. While candy is a treat for your taste buds, collagen care is a treat for your future self. It keeps your skin resilient, radiant, and refreshed far beyond October 31st.
So this Halloween, enjoy the candy in moderation, but give your skin the kind of treat it truly deserves. Fewer tricks, more collagen, and a glow that lasts long after the jack-o’-lanterns fade. That’s the sweetest transformation of all.
Xo,
Dr. G