08-04-2025
3 Ways to Boost Collagen Production for Plumper, Firmer Skin
Collagen earns a lot of buzz in the skincare world, and for good reason! This powerhouse protein keeps your skin firm, plump and youthful. But here's the catch: Collagen production starts slowing in your 20s and continues to decline as the years go by, says Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana. No need to stress or add more wrinkles over it! We asked dermatologists and an aesthetician how to boost collagen production and protect the collagen you still have, so you can turn back the clock and keep skin looking its best.
You've heard it before—daily sun protection is a must, especially for keeping collagen strong. 'Aside from aging and natural collagen loss, UV damage is the number one cause of collagen decline,' says Dr. Spearman. In short, skipping sunscreen (or using one with a low SPF) during sun exposure speeds up sagging and wrinkles.
Dr. Spearman's advice? Make SPF 30 or higher a non-negotiable in your routine to protect your skin. If you're not a fan of traditional sunscreen, a tinted sunscreen prevents a white cast and evens out skin tone, so you can skip foundation if you choose. Another genius pick is SPF drops. These concentrated, serum-like drops can be mixed into your moisturizer or foundation (or used on their own) for seamless protection. Either way, just make sure SPF is part of your daily glow-up.
Two formulas to try: Eucerin Tinted Age Defense SPF 50 Face Sunscreen and Coola Sun Silk Drops.
There's a reason retinol is the gold standard in anti-aging skin care products. The vitamin A derivative speeds cell turnover, exfoliates and—most importantly—stimulates collagen production while slowing its breakdown, says Kristin Gunn, a celebrity aesthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa in Austin, Texas.
Retinol gets a bad rap for being drying and irritating, but the right formula makes all the difference. Look for a retinol cream infused with hydrators like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to offset irritation. Gunn's tip: Ease in slowly with retinol—start with once or twice a week and gradually increase as your skin adjusts.
If your skin is ultra-sensitive or you have struggled with retinol in the past, opt for bakuchiol instead. This plant-based alternative mimics retinol's benefits, boosting collagen output and improving skin turnover without the irritation.
For a hydrating retinol product, try RoC Retinol Correxion Smoothing Max Hydration Cream; for a retinol alternative, look to The INKEY List Bakuchiol Moisturizer.
Collagen creams are everywhere, but here's the scoop—collagen's larger molecules are too big to penetrate the skin. The better way to get a boost? Add an oral collagen supplement to your routine. New York City board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, swears by collagen peptides, which simply refers to collagen that's been broken down to make it easier for your body to absorb.
Studies show that supplementing with collagen peptides helps increase collagen production, so skin looks plumper and more hydrated. The best way to take them is in liquid or powder form. If you're not into supplements, Gunn says you can still boost collagen naturally with foods like bone broth, fish, egg whites and leafy greens.
A great collagen peptide powder to try is Reservage Beauty Collagen Replenish more skin care tips and tricks, click through these stories:
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