This cream is loaded with brightening niacinamide (a collagen booster) and firming peptides (“the building blocks of collagen,” says board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal, MD) that help trigger extra collagen and elastin production with us
We love that it’s formulated with SPF 30 (the only collagen cream on our list with this ingredient) and that it doesn’t leave a white cast behind as a result. To find the best collagen cream formulas, we tested top-rated creams over two weeks. Some other helpful ingredients to look for in collagen creams include niacinamide, ceramides, and plant-based retinol alternatives, like bakuchiol. A collagen cream will definitely work if you only want to combat dryness and moisturize your skin. Known for its silky, gel-cream texture, it melts into skin instantly—never heavy or greasy—yet delivers lasting hydration and a firmer, smoother feel. In addition to PDRN and collagen, the formula also blends hyaluronic acid and niacinamide into the gel base for even more lightweight hydratio
In addition to being a naturally-occurring protein in the human body, collagen is also a popular skincare ingredient. According to the Mayo Clinic, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light breaks down your skin’s connective tissue—collagen and elastin fibers—which lie in the deeper layer of the skin (dermis). As it does, your skin may become less resilient, and the visible signs of aging—such as fine lines and wrinkles—may become more pronounced. Alongside elastin (another protein), it also helps keep the skin strong, plump, and elasti
Best Collagen Creams to Boost Firmness and Elasticity
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Biodance Collagen Cream The super-soft texture is so satisfying, and it leaves my skin looking dewy and bouncy after every use. “This is one of the thickest, most hydrating creams I’ve tried. Scoop out the little pink capsules and watch them melt right in, flooding skin with moisture and a healthy, springy bounce. Despite the eyebrow-raising origins, you’re not really slathering salmon semen on your face; PDRN is carefully extracted and purified to help stimulate skin repair, boost elasticity, and improve hydration.
Best Overall: Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cre
In some cases, it’s as simple as seeking out collagen-rich foods or supplement your diet with nutrient-rich additives or drinks. In-office chemical peels, high concentrations of exfoliating acids applied for a short period of time then removed, can result in collagen rebuilding within skin’s layers (13). This subtype of collagen isn’t as “complete” as regular collagen since it’s produced in haste. However, the authors of the paper note that more scientific studies are needed before any definitive conclusions about light therapy’s efficacy can be drawn. One research paper found that certain light frequencies (most notably red light) improve skin’s collagen levels (10). The reality is that the best way to improve collagen synthesis is to take a holistic approach that involves skin care, diet, lifestyle and in some cases, supplementation.
Dieux Air Angel Collagen & Peptide Hydrating Gel Cream
“Your body needs vitamin C, zinc, manganese, and copper to produce collagen, so it’s important to have these in your diet,” Shotter explains. Injectables also have a role to play, with some types of filler specifically designed to stimulate collagen production. “Ablative lasers burn tiny holes into the skin that have to heal, a process that prompts collagen production,” explains Craythorne. As estrogen levels drop (especially after menopause) collagen production plummets. Sculptra works by kickstarting your body’s own collagen production.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
We implemented these collagen creams into our regular skincare routines, layering them with our regular products, from SPF to moisturizers to retinols to everyday makeup. How to take care of the collagen you have and how to boost your skin’s natural collagen production are buzzy topics, and tons of brands claim their key ingredients (vegan collagen, peptides, you name it) can get the job done. Other (industry-funded) studies have suggested that oral products with high amounts of the collagen peptides prolylhydroxyproline collagen cream with hyaluronic acid and hydroxyprolylglycine can improve the moisture and appearance of the ski
Best for Mature Skin: First Aid Beauty Firming Cream
This cream is loaded with brightening niacinamide (a collagen booster) and firming peptides (“the building blocks of collagen,” says board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal, MD) that help trigger extra collagen and elastin production with use. Combined in this cream with moisturizing hyaluronic acid and collagen, it’s a fab hydrator that also makes collagen cream with hyaluronic acid your skin look firmer over time. Not all collagen creams have to be thick and oily.
More collagen creams we love:
A proprietary Barrier Repair Coplex (peptides, ceramides, and other emollients) further reinforces the skin barrier, keeping your complexion balanced and resilient over time. The lightweight texture absorbs instantly, but I like to really slather it on and let it sit like a mini mask for a few minutes before gently rubbing any excess into my neck and collagen cream with hyaluronic acid décolletage. “I’m already such a fan of the Collagen Real Deep Mask, so I was excited to try this collagen-infused cream—and it didn’t disappoin
