Collagen for Healthier, Younger-Looking Skin

Collagen is a protein – in fact, it’s the most abundant type in our body, accounting for about 30% of the total protein. Collagen is a major component of our skin. It helps with strengthening skin, as well as elasticity and hydration. As we age, our skin produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and wrinkles. Collagen is also involved in skin repair and regeneration, making it helpful in healing wounds and reducing scarring.

Collagen has several science-backed benefits. Heathline says, “Several studies have shown that collagen peptides or supplements containing collagen may help slow the aging of your skin by reducing wrinkles and dryness.” Collagen may also help relieve joint pain, prevent bone loss, boost muscle mass, improve heart and gut health, and strengthen hair and nails.

Historically, humans likely consumed more collagen than many of us do today, through foods like bone broth, meat stocks, and organ meats (liver, kidney, etc). 

Among the several types of collagen, type I, II, and III are the most relevant for skin health. Type I collagen is responsible for skin strength and elasticity, making it a focal point in anti-aging treatments.

Dietary supplements

Collagen supplements, in the form of powders, capsules, or beverages, have gained popularity for their ability to boost collagen production. Most supplements use hydrolysed collagen peptides, which are broken down into smaller amino acids for easier absorption. Marine collagen, derived from fish, may be particularly effective due to its high bioavailability. Look for products with clinically tested formulations. Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD (registered dietician) has recommended Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder, given that it is third-party tested and formulated with other ingredients that boost skin health, including vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. The collagen in the Vital Proteins product comes from grass-fed cows and is gluten- and dairy-free.

Natural food sources of collagen include gelatin, bone broth, connective tissues, chicken skin, pork skin, beef, and fish. Vitamin C is important for collagen synthesis, and found in many plant foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli. 

Collagen skincare products

Topical collagen in creams, serums, and masks can temporarily enhance skin’s hydration and texture. The larger molecular size of collagen means it doesn’t penetrate deeply into the dermis, but these products can still help with moisturizing and barrier strengthening. For more effects, look for formulations that also include retinol or peptides, which stimulate natural collagen production.

Other skin treatments

Other skin treatments, such as microneedling (also known as collagen induction therapy), laser therapy, and anti-wrinkle injections can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-wrinkle treatments are often aimed at visible areas like forehead lines, crow’s feet, and smile lines. These injections relax muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Microneedling uses fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which triggers the body’s natural healing process, leading to increased collagen and elastin production. Microneedling is sometimes combined with topical serums containing peptides or hyaluronic acid to improve results.

Laser therapy treatments use controlled heat to penetrate the dermis and stimulate collagen regeneration. Over time, this can result in firmer, more elastic skin with fewer fine lines. Regular sessions can enhance the skin’s structure and improve texture.