As we age, we gradually lose the collagen that kept our skin youthful. So how can you boost your collagen levels? Collagen naturally decreases by about 1% each year starting in our mid-20s, leading to looser skin, larger pores, and more visible wrinkles. “Collagen acts like scaffolding that holds skin together,” explains dermatologist Dr. Emma Craythorne, founder of Klira. Without enough collagen, skin loses its firmness and structure.

### Understanding Collagen’s Role
Found mainly in the skin’s middle layer (the dermis), collagen keeps skin strong, smooth, and hydrated while aiding wound healing. Over time, collagen breaks down due to both natural aging and external factors like sun exposure, which dries out skin and reduces elasticity.

“Collagen is a key structural protein that maintains skin firmness and elasticity,” says aesthetic doctor Dr. Sophie Shotter. This is why young skin bounces back when pressed, while older skin feels softer and less firm. “That’s why collagen is a major focus in anti-aging skincare.”

Other factors that speed up collagen loss include pollution (which increases oxidative stress) and smoking (which disrupts collagen production and skin oxygenation). Excess sugar in the body can also damage collagen through a process called glycation, making it stiff and brittle.

### Prevention Is Key
The best approach is to slow collagen breakdown early on. “The biggest culprit is UV exposure,” says Craythorne. This is why dermatologists emphasize daily broad-spectrum SPF (at least SPF 30)—it not only prevents skin cancer and dark spots but also protects collagen.

### How to Boost Collagen
Once you’re protecting your skin, you can actively stimulate collagen production. “Prescription retinoids are an effective at-home option,” says Craythorne. “Vitamin A signals skin cells to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid.” If retinoids aren’t suitable, vitamin C is another proven collagen booster.

### Signs of Low Collagen
– Joint pain
– Weak, brittle hair and nails
– Thinning hair or excessive shedding
– Loss of skin elasticity (crepey texture)
– Muscle loss

### When to Start Focusing on Collagen
Ideally, begin in your mid-20s when collagen production starts slowing. However, starting later (in your 30s, 40s, or beyond) still helps—it just may take longer to see results.

### Professional Collagen Treatments
In-office options include:
– Microneedling, radiofrequency, and ultrasound – These stimulate collagen by creating controlled skin damage.
– Laser treatments – Ablative lasers create tiny wounds that trigger collagen repair, says Craythorne.
– Biostimulatory fillers – Some fillers (like Radiesse) provide immediate plumping while also encouraging natural collagen growth over time.

By combining prevention, skincare, and professional treatments, you can help maintain healthier, more youthful skin as you age.Here’s a more natural and fluent version of your text while keeping the original meaning intact:

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Long-term collagen stimulation and volume restoration make these treatments ideal for mature skin, Shotter adds.

Another option is PRP therapy, which involves injecting platelet-rich plasma from your own blood. This speeds up tissue repair, boosts collagen production, and can be paired with microneedling for better results.

### Lifestyle Changes to Support Collagen Production

Diet
What you eat matters. “Your body needs vitamin C, zinc, manganese, and copper to produce collagen, so include these in your diet,” Shotter explains. Foods like bone broth, salmon, and egg whites can help maintain healthy skin.

Sleep & Stress Management
Getting enough sleep and managing stress are crucial. “This supports hormonal balance and skin regeneration,” says Dr. Shin-Young Cho, a dermatologist at Future Care Medical.

Supplements
Dermatologists are often skeptical about collagen supplements since there’s no solid proof they reach the skin. However, Craythorne notes they may improve hydration when taken consistently.

Recommended Collagen Supplements:
– Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Advanced (with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C) – $43 (16% off)
– Vida Glow Original Marine Collagen – $50
– Garden of Life Grass Fed Collagen Peptides Powder – $32
– Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein – $53

### Skincare Products That Boost Collagen

Topical treatments can help stimulate collagen in specific areas. Here are some of the best options:

Retinol & Retinoids
“Retinoids—like retinol, retinal, and prescription tretinoin—are the gold standard,” says Shotter. “They directly stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and restore elasticity over time.”

Vitamin C
Essential for collagen synthesis, vitamin C also “protects against oxidative damage,” Shotter adds. “Peptides can also signal the skin to repair collagen, though their effects are milder than retinoids—but they work well together.”

Recommended Vitamin C Serums:
– Sunday Riley CEO 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum – $85
– SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic – $182

SPF
“Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) is a must to prevent UV-induced collagen breakdown,” Shotter explains. “Other helpful ingredients include growth factors, niacinamide (vitamin B3), and antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and protect skin structure.”

Recommended Sunscreens:
– SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 – $42
– Chanel UV Essentiel SPF 50 – $60
– La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen SPF 60 – $38
– EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 – $43

Have a beauty or wellness trend you’re curious about? Email Vogue’s senior beauty editor at beauty@vogue.com.

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