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These are the collagen boosting beauty products our team really rate
From supplements to skincare, these are the collagen products that deliver.
Where does collagen come from? How can we pack more collagen into our skin? And do collagen boosting skincare products really work? So many questions, so little time. Literally, because production of our own internal collagen - the structural protein that adds density and plumpness to the skin and makes the surface seem smoother and more taut - starts slowing down from our mid-twenties. And, if you're reading this with a view to putting bounce back into your skin, it's likely you're well past that point (sorry).
The good news is that - in theory, at least - there are many ways to get more collagen into the skin, from topical application of collagen-containing creams and serums, to drinking or eating the stuff in the form of collagen gummies, collagen bars or powdered collagen drinks. And while experts don't always agree on what's possible (the size of the collagen molecule, and its ability to be absorbed into the skin or get safely through the digestive system being hot topics), there's plenty of anecdotal evidence that says collagen supplements do have an impact on stronger and faster hair and nail growth, followed by noticeably glowier, more resilient skin.
And then there are the tried and trusted skincare ingredients such as peptides, retinoids, vitamin C and certain algae, which encourage the skin to make more of its own collagen or help it to protect the collagen it already has.
With all of that in mind (and ever fans of a belt-and-braces approach) the GH beauty team has pulled together the collagen-boosting skincare products and supplements that have really made a difference in their routines. Smoother, plumper, glowier-looking skin? Bounce this way..
As far as supplements go, these liquid supplements had excellent results from a GHI test. Testers reported that their nails looked stronger and healthier after four weeks, as well as firmer, bouncier skin. Our beauty editor Lynne also appreciated the fruity flavour of these; a stark contrast to some other less palatable ones we've tried in the past.
"When my skin looks lacklustre and dull, I apply this over my serum and moisturiser, to lock in hydration and give my skin an extra layer of reparative goodness.
The collagen here is hydrolysed, which means it has been broken down into tiny fragments to help skin to make its own supportive proteins. The additional botanical oils help with the end result of softer, more hydrated and plumped-looking skin."
Fleur, Beauty Editor
Peter Thomas Roth FIRMx Collagen Eye Cream
"I’ve also just started trialling this powerful eye cream, which contains hydrolysed collagen, soluble collagen, and collagen-supporting peptides and amino acids. As a potent cosmeceutical brand, I’m easing my way in gently, but I can already see that this generates results."
Fleur, Beauty Editor
“Retinol is seriously effective when it comes to stimulating collagen production, but my rosacea often prevents me from using it. I’m also pregnant at the moment, but once the baby’s here I’ll revert to using this excellent collagen-boosting night serum.
2% granactive retinoid helps skin to behave ‘younger’ without the irritation associated with stronger retinoids, while plant-based bakuchiol speeds up cell turnover and collagen production. Add azelaic acid to reduce redness and it’s the only product I need after my evening cleanse.”
Anna, Beauty Editor
FaceGym Active Blast Instant Release Collagen Booster Spheres
"These little balls of freeze-dried actives dissolve with a few drops of hyaluronic serum in the palm of my hand, to create a rejuvenating shot for tired skin.
Some might argue there's no such thing as vegan collagen, since true collagen is produced by animal organisms only. Here, FaceGym uses fermented yeast to plump and refresh the skin in the same way that marine collagen is said to. Having seen the boost it's given to my skin in less than a fortnight, I'm not going to quibble."
Alex, Senior Beauty Editor
"After an episode of perioral dermatitis caused by overdoing my actives, I tend to avoid punchy ingredients such as vitamin C and retinoids, and rely partly on peptides to boost resilience and glow.
Paula’s Choice is a brand that rarely causes me any sensitivity, and this soothing serum contains 8 peptides; the little building blocks that help collagen production. It gives me immediate brightness, calmer-looking skin and plumpness over time."
Phoebe, Beauty Writer
Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum
"I find Biossance’s products work particularly well for skin like mine, which needs hydration at every step of my skincare routine.
As well as the collagen-boosting peptides, the two key players here are hyaluronic acid and squalane. After using this, my parched skin feels grateful for the comfort and moisture it gives and the radiance it leaves behind."
Phoebe, Beauty Writer
"Hydrolysed collagen peptides, prebiotic fibre, a probiotic and a little hit of vitamins C and E, all wrapped up in low sugar chocolate; Beauty Bites are the most delicious way to consume your collagen in my opinion. You’d have to eat one a day for 6 to 8 weeks to see more hydrated skin and a less lined look according to Krumbled Foods, the Aussie brand that produces the bars. Don’t mind if I do…."
Eve, Group Beauty Director
"As well as improving texture and pigmentation, retinoids (vitamin A) help to stimulate the production of collagen and preserve it in the skin. I’ve used a retinoid since my twenties, either in prescription form or from the beauty shelves, where it comes in various forms such as retinol. I think Medik8 make some of the best.
Their Crystal Retinal line has a step-up system serving newbies to lifers, and time-releases the ingredient to minimise potential irritation. This one’s a good buy for regular retinoid users."
Eve, Group Beauty Director
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