Various approaches may help boost or restore collagen. These include supplements, diet changes, and medical treatments.
Collagen is a protein that can help keep the skin looking smooth. As age and other factors reduce collagen levels, the skin loses its elasticity, and lines can form.
The body produces collagen naturally, but as people age, the amount and quality of collagen decrease. One result of this is the development of lines and wrinkles in the skin.
Collagen is the
It is present in numerous tissues, including muscles, bones, tendons, blood vessels, and the digestive system. It plays a key role in many bodily functions, including wound healing.
Low levels of collagen occur with severe health conditions, such as:
- scurvy, which stems from a vitamin C deficiency and leads to:
- osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic condition that results in weak bones
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which occurs when the body cannot produce collagen effectively, leading to a range of symptoms
When collagen levels are high, the skin is soft, smooth, and firm. Collagen helps the skin cells renew and repair themselves. Both the levels and quality of collagen affect the skin.
As a person ages, their body produces less of certain types of collagen, and the quality of collagen in the body reduces.
This can lead to:
- a loss of elasticity in the skin and other connective tissues
- lines, wrinkles, and looseness in the skin
- joint stiffness
As people get older, changes in collagen structure occur that weaken the bond between the different layers of the skin. This may be why people develop wrinkles and other signs of aging skin.
Many people are exploring ways to boost collagen in the skin to prevent wrinkles and other signs of skin aging. Here are some options that researchers have investigated.
1. Collagen supplements
People take collagen supplements for their joint and skin health.
A 2023 review concludes that hydrolyzed collagen supplements can reduce wrinkle formation, increase skin elasticity, and enhance skin hydration.
Another
2. Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a compound that helps promote collagen production.
A 2025 study found that hyaluronic acid can help maintain skin hydration, promoting elasticity and firmness. It also plays an active role in wound formation and healing, with loss of hyaluronic acid as the skin ages, leading to:
- wrinkles
- sagging skin
- issues with joint mobility
- impaired healing of burns, scars, and wounds
People should follow the instructions on the package when using hyaluronic acid, as it can have adverse effects,
In individuals with dark skin tones, the area may become darker or develop a pinkish or grayish tone. Pale skin may become red.
Treatments containing hyaluronic acid are available as:
- injections
- topical creams, serums, and ointments
- supplements, for instance, in capsules
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is
Symptoms of scurvy include:
- gum problems
- skin symptoms
- problems with wound healing
The human body cannot produce vitamin C, so people must obtain it through their diet.
Food sources include:
- citrus fruits
- green or red peppers
- strawberries
- broccoli
If a person’s vitamin C levels are low, a doctor may recommend supplements.
Many skin care companies add vitamin C to their protective creams.
4. Aloe vera gel
2024 research states that aloe vera gel contains essential amino acids and carbohydrates that can help stimulate the production of collagen in the skin, by inducing fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are cells that reside in connective tissue, giving the skin and body structure and support.
People can use products containing aloe as a topical cream or gel or an oral supplement.
5. Ginseng
Ginseng is a plant with a wide range of possible health benefits.
A 2024 studyfound that ginseng increases the amount of collagen in the bloodstream. Ginseng has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers also note that it might help prevent aging in skin cells.
People can use ginseng in various forms, including tea, tinctures, and supplements.
6. Antioxidants
Antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals, which are molecules that the body produces during metabolism.
Exposure to chemicals, such as those in tobacco smoke, can also introduce free radicals into the body.
Various antioxidants may help protect and rejuvenate the skin, for example, by promoting collagen production. Antioxidants are present in many plant-based foods.
According to research from 2025, antioxidants in the following foods and drinks may benefit the skin:
- blueberries
- green tea or epigallocatechin-3-gallate, green tea’s active component
- leafy greens such as kale and spinach
- citrus fruits
7. Retinol and other carotenoids
Carotenoids, such as retinol and beta carotene, are antioxidants that can help boost skin health. They are derivatives of vitamin A.
Research indicates that topical retinoids may help protect the skin from sunlight by preventing UV rays from breaking down collagen.
Food sources of vitamin A
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), using a cream or lotion that contains retinol may help improve the skin’s texture slightly. However, it does not penetrate deeply enough to tighten loose skin.
8. Light therapy
Red light therapy and other types of light therapy may stimulate collagen growth, thereby improving wrinkles and enhancing skin elasticity.
A 2023 study stated that red light therapy may be a quick and safe method for increasing collagen in the skin. Many dermatologists offer light therapy, but equipment is also available for home use. It is best to consult a specialist for advice before investing in equipment for home use.
9. Protect the skin from the environment
Weather conditions and certain lifestyle habits can affect the levels and quality of collagen in the skin. Experts say that exposure to UV light damages collagen in the skin in a similar way to aging.
Tips for preventing skin damage due to low levels of high quality collagen include:
- protecting the skin from sunlight, for instance, by wearing sunscreen and clothes that cover the face and body
- wearing sunglasses to protect the skin around the eyes
- avoiding smoking, as the chemicals in tobacco
may affect collagen production - limiting caffeine intake, as caffeine may reduce the body’s ability to produce collagen
Many skin care products contain collagen.
According to 2025 research, oral collagen supplements may help boost collagen in the body. Together with topical skin care products, they may help smooth the skin and reduce wrinkles.
Eating foods that contain vitamin C and antioxidants, avoiding smoking, limiting caffeine intake, and protecting the skin from sunlight may all help preserve collagen or boost its production.
As people get older, the body produces less collagen, making the skin appear looser.
Skin care products may help tighten the skin but are unlikely to have a significant impact.
Collagen is a substance that the body produces naturally. Genetic factors and nutrients, such as vitamin C, are essential for its production.
The functions of collagen include maintaining the skin’s smoothness and elasticity, keeping the joints flexible, and facilitating wound healing.
Various products and chemicals may help enhance collagen production, but there is not enough evidence to prove that all of them will make a significant difference.