Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies. It can be found in our muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments—but it’s perhaps best-known for giving skin its firmness and elasticity. But we lose the protein across our body (and make less) with age—so stimulating collagen becomes incredibly essential for our overall skin health.
Other benefits of collagen for the skin, according to Jane Yoo, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Jane Yoo MD Dermatology, include hydration, a smooth texture, and better wound healing and scar recovery abilities. Because our collagen production naturally declines as we age (Dr. Yoo says we lose about 1% of collagen a year starting from our mid-20s), when we don’t bother stimulating the collagen in our skin, we may experience sagging skin, deep static wrinkles, the loss of jawline and cheek definition, and thinner skin all around.
“The most important thing you can do for your skin is help it produce collagen–this will help to prevent sagging, a loss in elasticity, and wrinkles,” agrees Carrie Gross, co-founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare. Carrie, along with her husband, Dr. Dennis Gross, created his eponymous brand 24 years ago. Amongst all the amazing products they’ve launched over the years, one remains the ultimate cult product: the Universal Daily Peel. It has won over several celebrity fans (Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Sydney Sweeney, Lily Aldridge, and Chrissy Teigen, to name just a few) and promises the same glow-boosting results as Dr Gross’s in-practice acid peels.
“I think it’s so popular because it gives an immediate glow, but in the long term it boosts collagen formation, produces density in the skin, protects the skin barrier, and balances the pH,” she explains. How else can one boost collagen and get the same glow? The experts share their tips below.
Vitamin C Is Key
“It’s an active that you should use in the morning to protect your skin from free radicals in the environment and in pollution,” Gross explains, adding that free radicals break down collagen fibers. “As we age, we produce less collagen, and the collagen we do produce becomes weaker. Vitamin C helps create stronger and better quality collagen–it also increases its volume, which is why you should think about starting to use it from the age of 20.” In Gross’s view, vitamin C is as necessary to your skincare routine as SPF.
