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We’ll start with the most obvious: If you want to restore your natural collagen levels, one of the best things you can do is consume high-quality collagen peptides. Research shows these peptides are able to enhance your body’s own collagen production1 by stimulating fibroblasts, those same cells that make collagen and elastin to begin with. 

As a result, consuming collagen can support skin elasticity2 and potentially make fine lines appear smaller. One double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial also found that participants’ moisture levels in the skin were seven times higher3 than those who did not take collagen supplements.

Topicals can also spur collagen production (glycolic acid, retinol, and the like), but if you want to secure firmer skin for the long haul, you’ll want to consider going internal. Of course, not all collagen powders are created equal, as many don’t contain the right dose and/or include unnecessary additives and fillers. No fear: Here, find the best options on the market, all backed by a nutrition Ph.D. 

Thought we’d discuss collagen without mentioning good ol’ vitamin C? Think again. Your body cannot effectively produce collagen without the antioxidant4; plus, it stabilizes the collagen you already have thanks to its antioxidant properties. Essentially: If you care about youthful skin, you need to have vitamin C in your skin care line-up, be it through topicals or ingestibles. 

Some collagen powders may even include vitamin C in their formulas to make it easier for you, but even then you might want to consider your intake and make sure you get enough. If you are looking for an extra nudge, shop our favorite expert-backed vitamin C supplements here—or opt for a serum, if you’d rather go the topical route. 

Hydrated skin is the cornerstone of smart skin care: Not only does proper hydration make your complexion appear plump and dewy, but consistent dehydration can lead to premature aging (think: sagging skin and wrinkles) down the line. 

You can slather on every hyaluronic acid serum you can get your paws on, but again, going internal may provide the glistening, juicy cherry on top. If your skin won’t stay moisturized, experts specifically recommend ingesting ceramides; the ceramides naturally present in your skin are what help keep moisture locked inside (you can think of them as the “glue” holding your skin barrier together), but you can consume them orally to increase water retention and restore the lipid barrier. 

Here, you can find our list of top notch beauty supplements, a few of which include ceramides in their ingredient lists. Feel free to top off your skin care routine with a ceramide cream, too, for good measure.