These 3 Ingredients Are A+ For Firmer Skin & Restoring Collagen

When it comes to promoting healthy skin aging, a few noteworthy players receive the majority of fanfare. Take retinol, for example, which many could consider the gold standard for promoting collagen production and smoothing fine lines.

Nothing against the vitamin A derivative (it's popular for a reason—it works!), but it's not the only option out there, especially if you're on the hunt for gentler methods. 

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.

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 lineup, be it through topicals or ingestibles. 

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.