Do You Really Need Collagen in Your Skincare?

What role does Collagen play in your Skincare routine?

We all want to look younger for longer and ideally turn back time. Looking at old pictures of us and seeing a smooth and tight face. Many search for the magic bullet that retains that youthful-looking skin. And if you go to Google, Bing, or other search engines and search for anti-aging skincare products, no doubt you have come across the keyword: collagen.

Many brands claim that this structural protein is the answer to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Marketing claims like “replenish your collagen” and “boost collagen production for a tighter and firmer skin appearance” are everywhere. But without much scientific backing or in vitro studies. Let’s have a closer look at this protein and what it can do.

Collagen: Where to Find It in Our Body

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and plays a fundamental role in connective tissues, providing structure to the skin, tendons, cartilage, and blood vessels. The dermis, the middle layer of skin, consists primarily of this protein, which contributes to skin elasticity and strength.

This essential protein makes up 25% to 35% of the whole-body protein content. Currently, 29 collagen types have been identified, with more than 90% classified as types I to V, and type I is the most prevalent. Below outlines where these types can be found:

• Type I: Skin, tendons, vascular structures, ligaments, organs, bone

• Type II: Cartilage

• Type III: Reticulate fibers

• Type IV: Basis of cell basement membrane

• Type V: Found in tissues containing type I

Type I is dominant in the skin, contributing to its firmness and smooth appearance. This is why many products focus on boosting collagen production to counteract signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging.

The Slowing of This Miracle Protein

However, when we turn 30, many processes in the body start to slow down. This means that natural production declines faster than it is replenished. As a result, the skin becomes thinner, loses elasticity and strength, leading to sagging and wrinkle development. This natural degradation affects all three layers of the skin.

Scientific research, including randomized controlled trials, suggests that production decreases by approximately 1% with each year of age after maturity, leading to a visible decline in skin health and structure.

Is This Protein Worth the Hype in Skincare Products?

As far as our research goes, we haven’t found any randomized controlled trials proving that topical applications can restore lost proteins in the skin. Despite its importance in connective tissues, the molecular size of collagen peptides is too large to penetrate the epidermis.

The main benefit of topical application is skin hydration, but there are far more effective and cost-efficient ingredients that achieve this.

What Can You Do Instead to Protect and Rebuild Skin Structure?

A Healthy Skin Barrier

A strong and functioning skin barrier is essential for preventing dehydration, irritation, and environmental damage. A good skincare routine with the right ingredients can improve skin regeneration and elasticity.

Although the technology for delivering this protein topically has yet to be perfected, some products promote support collagen production naturally. Another effective approach is using topical antioxidants combined with sunscreens and retinoids to reduce inflammation and slow degradation.

Topicals

Vitamin C

Studies have shown that Vitamin C in the form of L-ascorbic acid, at concentrations between 5% and 15%, stimulates the natural synthesis of types I and III, improving skin elasticity and firmness. This is why our Antioxidant Defence Booster is formulated with pure L-ascorbic acid for a fresh vitamin C boost every day.

Retinoids

Retinoids accelerate the skin’s turnover cycle, promoting the development of new, healthier cells that are better able to support collagen production. They have been shown in multiple studies to be effective in reducing wrinkles and improving skin health. 

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid triggers a healing response that encourages the body to produce more of this essential protein, making it another powerful ingredient for improving skin structure.

For those looking for more intensive options, laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling can also be discussed with a dermatologist.

Lifestyle

Your lifestyle significantly influences how your skin ages. Taking proactive steps to protect existing structural proteins can help maintain a youthful appearance long term.

• Manage stress: High cortisol levels break down essential proteins, leading to early signs of aging.

• Prioritize sleep: The REM cycle plays a crucial role in cellular regeneration, including structural proteins.

• Practice sun protection: UV exposure accelerates breakdown, making SPF essential for skin health.

Can Oral Supplements Help?

While topical applications have limited efficacy, oral collagen supplements have gained popularity. These supplements, particularly collagen hydrolysate, are broken down into amino acids that the body can use to rebuild skin, joints, and other tissues.

Scientific studies suggest that hydrolyzed collagen may help improve skin elasticity and hydration while reducing wrinkles. Some research also links it to reduced joint pain, particularly in individuals with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which affects connective tissues.

However, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, such as digestive discomfort, and ensure that any supplement is sourced from high-quality ingredients.

In Conclusion

While marketing claims about topical collagen peptides might be misleading, understanding how to support collagen production naturally can help you make better skincare choices.

The reality is that signs of aging are inevitable, but with the right lifestyle habits, topical treatments, and potentially oral collagen supplements, you can work towards maintaining healthy skin for the long term.

Ageing is a privilege—let’s embrace it in a way that keeps our skin strong and radiant.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!

Follow us on Instagram for more tips or check out Sarah's latest video on YouTube on this topic. Or book a skin consultation with our founder to go through skin requirements and identify your skin focus.

PS: We are working on a guide on how to naturally rebuild skin structure for timeless beauty!