{"id":58469,"date":"2026-10-16T11:05:47","date_gmt":"2026-10-16T15:05:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/well.ca\/blog\/?p=58469"},"modified":"2026-10-16T11:06:17","modified_gmt":"2026-10-16T15:06:17","slug":"what-does-collagen-do-for-skin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/well.ca\/blog\/what-does-collagen-do-for-skin\/","title":{"rendered":"What Does Collagen Do for Skin? Here&#8217;s What the Research Says"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen has become a fixture in a lot of morning routines, often stirred into a latte or taken alongside your vitamins. Online, though, you&#8217;ll find powders promising glass skin and comment threads insisting you should skip it for retinol.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen is the protein that gives your skin its structure. Collagen supplements have shown modest gains in hydration and elasticity in clinical trials, though the evidence isn&#8217;t as clear-cut as the marketing typically suggests. Read on for what the research supports, which type and dose to choose, and where collagen fits next to retinol and SPF.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Key Takeaways<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen is a structural protein that makes up about 30% of the body&#8217;s protein, and it gives skin its firmness and elasticity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen masks hydrate the skin&#8217;s surface, but the molecules are too large to reach the deeper layer where collagen is made.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Retinol has stronger evidence than oral collagen for wrinkles, and the two work in different ways, so they can share one routine alongside daily SPF.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What Does Collagen Do for Skin?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen is the main structural protein in your skin, working like a scaffold that keeps it firm and smooth. It makes up about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/body\/23089-collagen\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">30% of your body&#8217;s protein overall.<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Your body makes <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/well.ca\/blog\/collagen-supplement-types-right-for-you\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">several types of collagen<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, but type I does most of the work in your skin. It makes up roughly 90% of your body&#8217;s collagen and gives skin its strength.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Why Your Skin Makes Less Collagen Over Time<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen production slows down as you age because the cells that produce it <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ajp.amjpathol.org\/article\/S0002-9440(10)62205-5\/fulltext\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">become less active over time<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. That slowdown <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/body\/23089-collagen\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">increases after menopause<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> and again after age 60.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Age isn\u2019t the only factor, though, and the rest are more within your control. Too much sun\u00a0reduces how much collagen\u00a0your skin produces and breaks down what you already have. Smoking also slows production, and a high-sugar diet can leave collagen weak and brittle.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Do Collagen Supplements Actually Work for Skin?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen supplements may give your skin a small boost in hydration and bounce, but the research is mixed. In a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC10180699\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2023 review of 26 skin studies<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, people who took collagen saw better skin hydration and elasticity than people who took a placebo.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen may also help beyond your skin. A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1186\/s13018-023-04182-w\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2023 review of knee osteoarthritis studies<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> found collagen eased knee pain better than a placebo, though the researchers said better-quality studies are still needed.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Many collagen studies are funded by supplement companies, but when a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.amjmed.2025.04.034\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2025 review<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> looked only at independent, well-designed studies, the benefits disappeared. A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/jocd.71041\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">larger 2026 review<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> was more positive. It found small gains in hydration and elasticity no matter who funded the study, though collagen made no difference to wrinkles.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We asked Board-Certified Dermatologist <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dermatologist-nyc.com\/dr-jaliman\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dr. Debra Jaliman<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> about the research. &#8220;Research on collagen peptides is not very good,&#8221; she says. &#8220;There are some small studies funded by industry that say it is helpful; others do not find a significant difference.&#8221; If you add collagen to your routine, expect subtle results, not a dramatic change.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Does Collagen Help With Loose Skin?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/jocd.71041\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">slightly improve skin elasticity<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, but it won&#8217;t tighten loose skin, like skin that sags after major weight loss or with age.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Expect collagen to help your skin feel a little more supple, not look visibly firmer. For fine lines and texture, retinol has stronger evidence, and daily sunscreen helps\u00a0protects the collagen you already have.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Which Collagen Is Best for Skin?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Hydrolyzed collagen, also called collagen peptides, is the best-studied form for skin. It\u2019s collagen that&#8217;s\u00a0broken into smaller pieces your body can absorb, and researchers think some of those pieces may signal your skin to make more of its own. You\u2019ll find it in both <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/well.ca\/categories\/collagen_1829.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">marine and bovine collagen<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> supplements.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Choosing between a powder, capsule, or gummy comes down mostly to convenience, as long as it&#8217;s hydrolyzed collagen and you&#8217;re getting enough each day. Powders and drink sticks make it easy to get a full amount in one serving, since they mix\u00a0easily into coffee or a smoothie. Capsules and gummies tend to hold less collagen per piece, so you may need to take several to get your full daily amount.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What to Look For on the Label<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">When choosing collagen, a\u00a0few details on the label tell you more than\u00a0what you see on the front of the tub:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">An <\/span>eight-digit NPN (Natural Product Number)<span data-contrast=\"none\"> shows <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/health-canada\/services\/drugs-health-products\/natural-non-prescription\/frequently-asked-questions\/questions-consumers-regulation.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Health Canada has assessed the product<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> for safety, efficacy, and quality. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Marine collagen comes from fish and bovine collagen comes from cows, so\u00a0choose bovine if you have a fish allergy and marine if you&#8217;re pescatarian. Our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/well.ca\/blog\/marine-vs-bovine-collagen\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">guide to marine vs bovine collagen<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> covers the differences in more detail.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">&#8220;Hydrolyzed collagen&#8221; or &#8220;collagen peptides&#8221; in the ingredients means you&#8217;re getting the best-studied form.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Check the grams per serving so you know how much you&#8217;re getting each day.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">A third-party testing seal, like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nsf.org\/consumer-resources\/articles\/supplement-vitamin-certification\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">NSF certification<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, means an independent organization has checked that the product contains what the label says, with no hidden ingredients or harmful levels of contaminants.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ready to choose one? Browse our <\/span><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/well.ca\/categories\/collagensupplements_231.html\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">collagen supplements<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to compare powders, capsules, gummies, and drink sticks.<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">How Many mg of Collagen Per Day for Skin?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Most skin studies have used 500 to 10,000 mg (0.5 to 10 g) of collagen a day, and a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1111\/jocd.71041\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2026 review<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> found that taking it consistently mattered more than taking a higher dose. Amounts vary from product to product, so follow the\u00a0recommended\u00a0dose on the label, which Health Canada has reviewed for any product with an NPN.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The easiest way to stay consistent is to tie collagen to something you already do every day so it becomes a\u00a0part of your daily routine that&#8217;s hard to forget.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What Does a Collagen Mask Do for Skin?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">A collagen mask can leave your skin looking more hydrated, but it can&#8217;t add collagen to it.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ingredients generally need to be under 500 daltons (a unit of molecular weight) to get through the skin, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/10839713\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">a principle known as the 500 dalton rule<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, and a single collagen molecule is hundreds of times bigger than that. As Dr. Jaliman puts it, &#8220;Collagen face masks help hydrate the skin, but the collagen molecule itself is too big to penetrate the skin. So it doesn&#8217;t affect overall collagen.&#8221;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/well.ca\/categories\/face-eyemasks_4989.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">hydrating face mask<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> is still a nice addition to your routine when your skin needs a quick moisture boost. Just don&#8217;t count on it to build collagen or use it in place of a collagen supplement.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Collagen vs Retinol: Which Is Better?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Neither is better across the board, because collagen and retinol work in different ways. Retinol has stronger evidence for wrinkles and texture, while oral collagen shows modest gains in hydration and elasticity but no clear effect on wrinkles.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Retinol is a milder form of vitamin A that helps smooth wrinkles and reduce discolouration, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/wrinkles\/in-depth\/wrinkle-creams\/art-20047463\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">according to Mayo Clinic<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. If you&#8217;re looking to get ahead of skin aging, Dr. Jaliman recommends starting with retinol. &#8220;There is a lot of research that shows that [retinol] products stimulate collagen production, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and even out brown discoloration.&#8221;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table data-tablestyle=\"MsoNormalTable\" data-tablelook=\"1696\" aria-rowcount=\"6\" aria-colcount=\"3\">\n<tbody>\n<tr aria-rowindex=\"1\">\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Oral Collagen<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:2,&quot;335551620&quot;:2,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Topical Retinol<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:2,&quot;335551620&quot;:2,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr aria-rowindex=\"2\">\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Form<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Powder, capsule, or gummy<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Serum or cream<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr aria-rowindex=\"3\">\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">How it works<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Peptides absorbed through the gut may signal skin cells to make collagen<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Vitamin A derivative applied to skin that boosts collagen production where it&#8217;s applied<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr aria-rowindex=\"4\">\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Evidence strength<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Modest and mixed; many trials industry-funded<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Stronger; well established for fine lines and texture<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr aria-rowindex=\"5\">\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Time to results<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">A few months of consistent use<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">A few weeks to a few months<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr aria-rowindex=\"6\">\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Who should avoid<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Choose bovine if you have a fish allergy; ask a provider if pregnant or breastfeeding<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-celllook=\"0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Not for use during pregnancy<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Can You Use Retinol and Collagen Together?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:281,&quot;335559739&quot;:281}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Yes, retinol and collagen can be used together, since one works on your skin and the other from the inside. Retinol and daily SPF should be the core of your routine, with collagen working alongside both. Retinol goes on at night, and collagen can be taken any time of day.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Retinol can irritate at first and makes skin more sun-sensitive, so <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/wrinkles\/in-depth\/wrinkle-creams\/art-20047463\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mayo Clinic<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> recommends applying it at bedtime and wearing broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day. Start a few nights a week and build up as your skin adjusts. Retinoids, including retinol, shouldn&#8217;t be used during pregnancy.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Making Collagen Work for Your Skin<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:299,&quot;335559739&quot;:299}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Taken consistently for a few months, collagen can give your skin a little more hydration and bounce. Pair it with daily SPF and retinol, and you&#8217;ll have a simple skin care stack that covers the basics.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Make collagen an easy part of your\u00a0routine with <\/span><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/well.ca\/categories\/collagen_1829.html\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">collagen supplements<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> from Well.ca, from powders you can stir into your coffee to single-serve sticks, capsules, and gummies.<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">This article is for general information only and isn&#8217;t a substitute for advice from a doctor, dermatologist, or other qualified health care provider. Talk to your health care provider before starting a new supplement or skin care treatment, especially if you&#8217;re pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a health condition. Always read and follow the product label.<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Collagen has become a fixture in a lot of morning routines, often stirred into a latte or taken alongside your vitamins. Online, though, you&#8217;ll find powders promising glass skin and comment threads insisting you should skip it for retinol.\u00a0 Collagen is the protein that gives your skin its structure. Collagen supplements have shown modest gains [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":46,"featured_media":58471,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[39,653],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-58469","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beauty","category-vitamins"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Does Collagen Do for Skin? Here&#039;s What the Research Says - WellBeing by Well.ca<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What does collagen do for skin? 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