If you’re in pursuit of youthful and radiant skin, chances are, you’ve come across collagen as a potential holy grail ingredient. Collagen is a protein that is naturally present in our skin, but as we age, our bodies produce less of it, which leads to signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.¹ So is the solution as simple as just applying more collagen to your face?

Not quite—though it may have some benefits. Here, we’ll explore the science behind collagen stimulating serums, their mechanism of action, and the results they may deliver. We’ll also break down their effect on skin hydration, elasticity, and complexion.

The benefits of collagen

Collagen helps to hydrate the skin, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin elasticity, contributing to enhanced skin health.

Skin hydration

Studies reveal that incorporating collagen-based skincare products into a daily routine may lead to an increase in skin hydration levels, which may ultimately contribute to better overall skin health. In one study, topically applied collagen demonstrated a substantial rise in skin hydration after one month of use.² So, incorporating collagen into a skincare routine may be beneficial for people with dry skin or dehydrated skin. 

Decrease in wrinkles

One of the most inevitable signs of mature skin is the appearance of wrinkles. While there are countless products on the market that promise to address these signs of aging, research has shown that topical collagen may be beneficial.³ Though more studies are needed, collagen may not only help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but it may also improve the overall health and vitality of the skin.

Skin elasticity

The use of topical collagen has been found to yield anti-aging benefits such as reducing fine lines, improving skin elasticity, and increasing skin density. In fact, a notable increase was observed when the skin’s elasticity was measured after applying topical collagen.⁴

Serums that increase collagen production

Retinol and niacinamide both help increase collagen production. Retinol helps maintain collagen structure, while niacinamide boosts collagen production, improving skin’s health and appearance. 

Retinol

Retinol is a form of vitamin A and is generally considered an effective anti-aging ingredient. It increases cell turnover by removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new skin cells, which helps to reveal smoother and brighter-looking skin. Retinol specifically targets signs of aging like fine lines, sagging, and wrinkles by firming and plumping the skin.⁵

Additionally, retinol helps maintain the structure of collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping the skin firm and elastic.⁶ By stimulating collagen production, ridding the face of dead cells, and improving the function of skin cells, retinol supports the overall health and appearance of the skin. It also encourages the growth of new blood vessels and promotes the production of elastin fibers, further contributing to healthier and more youthful-looking skin.⁷

Niacinamide

Research has shown that niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide or vitamin B3, has numerous benefits for the skin. One notable benefit is its positive effect on boosting collagen production in the skin. Importantly, niacinamide specifically supports the synthesis and release of collagen, as indicated by the increase in the ratio of collagen to total protein.⁸

These findings suggest that using skincare products with niacinamide could be beneficial for improving the connective tissue and gel matrix components of the skin. This is especially true for people with older or sun-damaged skin, as niacinamide may help enhance collagen production and contribute to healthier-looking skin.⁹

A personalized solution for your skincare needs

Incorporating collagen stimulating products into your skin care routine may help you nourish and replenish your skin, diminish the signs of aging, and achieve a more youthful and vibrant complexion.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

Selecting skincare ingredients that help support collagen should not be guesswork. Curology’s team of expert dermatologists provide personalized skincare recommendations based on your specific concerns. All you need to do is answer a handful of questions and take a few photos of your skin concerns. Sign up for a 30 day trial* with Curology today.

P.S. We did the homework so you don't have to:

1. Lee, Y. I., et al. Effect of a Topical Collagen Tripeptide on Antiaging and Inhibition of Glycation of the Skin: A Pilot Study. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. (2022, January 20).

2. Al-Atif, H. Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Fields of Dermatology and Cosmetics. Dermatol Pract Concept. (February 2022).

3. Al-Atif, H. Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Fields of Dermatology and Cosmetics. Dermatol Pract Concept. Ibid.

4. Lee, Y. I., et al. Effect of a Topical Collagen Tripeptide on Antiaging and Inhibition of Glycation of the Skin: A Pilot Study. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. (2022, January 20).

5. Thorat, P.S., et al. General Review on Face Serum. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. (2023, April 10).

6. Shao, Y., et al. Molecular basis of retinol anti-aging properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. (2016, July 4).

7. Shao, Y., et al. Molecular basis of retinol anti-aging properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. Ibid.

8. Matts, P.J., et al. A Review of the range of effects of niacinamide in human skin. International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists. (January 2022). 

9. Matts, P.J., et al. A Review of the range of effects of niacinamide in human skin. International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists. Ibid.

Erin Pate is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Curology. She earned her Masters of Science in Nursing at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL.

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Erin Pate, NP-C