Let's start with a quick science lesson. Simply put, "Collagen is a protein that makes up most of the skin's structure," explains
Dr. Jennifer MacGregor, M.D., a dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City. "It gives it strength, thickness, and that youthful smoothness." Think of it as forming the foundation of the skin, keeping it firm and supple. You'll often hear it mentioned along with elastin, another important protein, which gives skin elasticity and the ability to stretch.
Image via Medical News Today
Image via Medical News Today
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but natural enzymes in your body are constantly breaking down collagen. There's also a whole of host of environmental and lifestyle factors -- UV exposure, pollution, smoking -- that accelerate that breakdown. As the collagen degrades, you end up with wrinkles. Luckily, your body is simultaneously producing new collagen, and the right topicals and treatments can help stimulate this production and/or preserve the collagen that's already there, points out MacGregor. Without further ado, these are the seven standouts that can help.
Image via Getty
Image via Getty
Retinoids, a class of vitamin-A derivatives, easily get the gold star for their tried-and-true anti-aging benefits. "Topical retinoids have the strongest and best evidence for slowing down collagen breakdown in many different ways," says MacGregor. And as if that weren't enough, they also stimulate the production of new collagen, she adds. Since the potent ingredient does have some potentially irritating side-effects (redness, dryness, flaking), be sure to apply only a pea-size drop of any retinoid-containing product on your entire face. You can also try using it every other night to help minimize irritation. FYI, the "night" part is important; the sun inactivates the ingredient, so reserve these products solely for your evening regimen.
One to try: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream, $24.99
One to try: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream, $24.99
"Peptides are the individual building blocks that link up to create protein," explains MacGregor. As you recall, collagen is a protein, so, in theory, more peptides equal more collagen. There's no shortage of different types of peptides out there, all of which do have varying degrees of efficacy, MacGregor notes. Still, the nice thing is that they're relatively well-tolerated in almost all skin types, and, unlike retinoids, are safe to use during pregnancy (though of course check with your doctor).
The BareMinerals Ageless Genius Firming & Wrinkle Smoothing Serum, $60, touts an anti-aging peptide, antioxidants, and beech bud extract, also known for its collagen supporting properties.
The BareMinerals Ageless Genius Firming & Wrinkle Smoothing Serum, $60, touts an anti-aging peptide, antioxidants, and beech bud extract, also known for its collagen supporting properties.
You probably pop it whenever you feel a cold coming on, but turns out vitamin C can ward off wrinkles, too. The major multi-tasker works to protect collagen a few different ways: "Not only is it a co-factor for the enzymes that directly produce new collagen, it also helps block UV-induced collagen breakdown," says MacGregor. Plus, it's a powerful antioxidant that counteracts free radical-induced inflammation, which is known to damage collagen, she adds. Get in the habit of layering a vitamin C-based serum under your sunscreen every morning.
Our current fave: Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum, $60. And don't just apply your vitamin C, eat it, too! Studies have shown that ingesting the vitamin also has collagen-boosting effects, so load up on fruits and veggies like kiwi, red peppers, and Brussels sprouts.
Our current fave: Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum, $60. And don't just apply your vitamin C, eat it, too! Studies have shown that ingesting the vitamin also has collagen-boosting effects, so load up on fruits and veggies like kiwi, red peppers, and Brussels sprouts.