Is collagen cream the same as moisturizer?

Because they contain moisturizing ingredients that hydrate the skin, collagen creams can be considered moisturizers. And like other moisturizers, you can find different collagen creams that are best for certain skin types, such as sensitive skin or dry skin .

How can I rebuild collagen in my face?

As discussed, our skin loses collagen over time, which can cause sagging and wrinkles. Beyond using collagen creams to try to help restore the appearance of our skin, healthy lifestyle habits may contribute to slower collagen loss. Eating less sugar , quitting smoking, and using sunscreen regularly all may be beneficial for slowing down wrinkles.

What are the symptoms of lack of collagen?

From a visual perspective, the biggest symptoms of a lack of collagen are wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. Additionally, a lack of collagen might lead to brittle nails and hair.

What causes skin's depletion of collagen?

In addition to happening naturally (losing collagen is a part of life), lifestyle choices can also contribute to the depletion of collagen. Among those, smoking, drinking, and a diet that isn't nutrient-rich "can cause the collagen and elastin in our skin to decrease, leading it to become rigid and less effective—thus causing wrinkles, uneven leathery texture in the skin, and breakouts," according to estheticians.

The 17 Best Collagen Creams of 2023

Collagen is a buzzy word in the cosmetics industry. But what is it, exactly? Do you need it, and if so, how do you get more of it? "Collagen is a protein that supports the skin's structure," explains dermatologist Ramya Garlapati, M.D. "Think of it as scaffolding that helps the skin stay firm and plump."

Dr. Garlapati says you produce less of it as you age. "This small loss of collagen compounded over time can lead to sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles." Luckily, certain skincare products can help the issue.

The research is still out on the benefits of topical collagen, and it may not be doing much for your skin. Some topical products actually contain collagen, while others call on collagen-stimulating ingredients. According to Dr. Garlapati, the latter includes retinol, peptides, and antioxidants like vitamin C and niacinamide. Beyond that, a daily SPF routine can help prevent collagen loss in the first place. Even if collagen creams don’t contain the actives to actually stimulate production, they still are incredibly moisturizing, and can be used for that benefit, too—you don’t need to throw away your beloved collagen cream, just yet.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream

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Best Budget:

L'Oréal Paris Collagen Filler Day/Night Cream

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Best Drugstore:

Olay Face Moisturizer

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

Kate Somerville Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer at Amazon

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Best with SPF:

StriVectin Multi-Action Super-C Vitamin C Moisturizer at Amazon

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Best with Retinol:

RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Anti-Aging Cream at Ulta

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Best with Vitamin C:

Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic Cream at Nordstrom

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Best with Niacinamide:

It Cosmetics Hello Results Retinol Serum-in-Cream at Amazon

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Best Daytime:

Clinique Multi-Correcting Cream at Nordstrom

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Best Night Treatment:

Pacifica Collagen Overnight Recovery Cream at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What To Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Byrdie

4.9

Amazon

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Nordstrom

What We Like

Very hydrating
Improves firmness and elasticity
Reduces fine lines

What We Don't Like

Expensive

When it comes to collagen-stimulating moisturizers, Elemis Marine Cream is tough to beat. It leans on multiple marine extracts to deliver immediate hydration while boosting firmness and elasticity and minimizing the look of fine lines over time. Skeptical? The results are backed by independent clinical trials.

Notably soft and cushiony Marine Cream also contains nourishing shea butter, calming vitamin E, and the fan-favorite antioxidant vitamin C to help brighten and even skin tone. While this product doesn't offer any sun protection, there is an SPF 30 version. In the end, we just wish it was more affordable.

Price at time of publish: $89

Key Ingredients: Marine extract, vitamin C, vitamin E, shea butter | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

L'OrÃ©al Paris Collagen Moisture Filler Day/Night Cream

Amazon

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Target

What We Like

Plumps skin
Minimizes fine lines

What We Don't Like

No SPF
No collagen stimulating ingredients

This wallet-friendly favorite is proof money doesn't always equal quality in the confusing world of skincare. It contains nourishing shea butter and collagen, promising to hydrate the skin, while temporarily filling in fine lines for a smooth makeup result.

Price at time of publish: $11

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, boswellia serrata extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 | Cruelty-Free: No

Olay Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer

Ulta

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Olay.com

What We Like

Lightweight
Balanced formula
Firms skin

What We Don't Like

Pricey for a drugstore brand

Drugstore collagen moisturizers don't get much better than this. Rich in skin-firming ingredients like collagen peptides and tremella (snow mushroom) extract, it'll leave you looking healthy, luminous, and fresh. And while it's nourishing, the texture is actually quite light and non-greasy.

Price at time of publish: $40

Key Ingredients: Collagen peptides, niacinamide | Skin Type: Combination, mature, dry | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Kate Somerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer

Ulta

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Sephora

What We Like

Collagen-boosting ingredients
Improves firmness
Evens skin tone

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Contains PEGs and BHT

If you're willing to pay a premium for the top-shelf stuff, Kate Somerville won't let you down. The hero ingredients of this powerhouse moisturizer include collagen-boosting retinol and antioxidants like vitamin C and gooseberry extract to even skin tone and defend against free radicals.

Price at time of publish: $110

Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, gooseberry extract | Skin Type: Normal, dry, mature | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

StriVectin Multi-Action Super-C Vitamin C Moisturizer SPF 30

Ulta

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Ulta

What We Like

Prevents photoaging
Promotes collagen production
Revitalize dull skin

What We Don't Like

Expensive

You're wise to wear sunscreen during the day, every day. To kill two birds with one stone, reach for StriVectin Super-C. This non-greasy moisturizer offers SPF 30 protection against photoaging, while vitamin C promotes collagen production, fights free radicals, and revitalizes dull skin. Sunscreen and vitamin C are a powerhouse pair against sun damage and wrinkles and this cream is your one and done morning skincare step.

Price at time of publish: $69

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, oily | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Anti-Aging Cream

Courtesy of Target

View On Ulta View On Target

What We Like

Affordable
Long-lasting hydration
Minimizes fine lines

What We Don't Like

Contains BHT and paraffin

According to Dr. Garlapati, retinoids (including over-the-counter retinol) are the "gold standard" for "their ability to stimulate collagen production." This affordable face cream combines retinol with hyaluronic acid to deliver long-lasting hydration, while working to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Price at time of publish: $30

Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid | Skin Type: Mature, dry, normal | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Vitamin C Lactic Dewy Deep Cream

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Sephora View On Dermstore

What We Like

Stimulates collagen production
Replenishes skin barrier

What We Don't Like

Expensive

"Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that not only protects collagen breakdown from UV damage but also stimulates collagen production," says Dr. Garlapati. To add this all-star ingredient to your routine, go with Dewy Deep Cream. It combines vitamin C with its antioxidant buddy niacinamide, plus lactic acid (AHA) for gentle exfoliation and squalane to moisturize and replenish the skin barrier.

Price at time of publish: $75

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, niacinamide, lactic acid, squalane | Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination | Size: 2 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

It Cosmetics Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-in-Cream

Ulta

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Ulta

What We Like

Firms and plumps
Minimizes fine lines
Calms inflammation

What We Don't Like

Contains fragrance and BHT

This moisturizer is formulated with firming and line-reducing retinol, as well as collagen-stimulating niacinamide to plump, firm, and protect the skin barrier. Vitamin E also helps soothe inflammation and keep free radicals at bay.

Price at time of publish: $69

Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, vitamin E | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Clinique Superdefense Multi-Correcting Cream SPF 25

Ulta

View On Nordstrom View On Ulta View On Bloomingdales

What We Like

Prevents collagen loss
Plumps and firms

What We Don't Like

Contains PEGs and BHT
Only SPF 25

Clinique Superdefense is a great pick for your morning skincare routine. It plumps, firms, and protects against free radicals with vitamins C, B3, and E. While SPF 25, is better than nothing, dermatologists do recommend SPF 30+ to reap the full benefits of sun protection. Add a layer of a dedicated SPF for extra credit.

Price at time of publish: $56

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, vitamin C, niacinamide, vitamin E | Skin Type: Mature, combination, dry, oily | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Pacifica Vegan Collagen Overnight Recovery Cream

Ulta

View On Amazon View On Ulta View On Target

What We Like

Affordable
Ultra-moisturizing
Plumps, firms, and smooths

What We Don't Like

Slightly greasy

Before bed, slather on this ultra-moisturizing face cream. It contains vegan collagen (in the form of peptides), along with vitamins C and E, to not only quench thirsty skin but also plump, firm, smooth, and even out your complexion.

Price at time of publish: $25

Key Ingredients: Peptides, vitamin C, vitamin E | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Ulta

View On Amazon View On Ulta View On Dermstore

What We Like

Boosts collagen and elastin
Helps skin retain moisture

What We Don't Like

Slightly greasy

"Peptides are short-chain amino acids that you can think of as building blocks for proteins in the skin," says Dr. Garlapati. "They promote collagen and elastin production that leads to firmer-looking skin." DHC's peptide-packed formula promises to plump up your skin while helping it retain moisture and protecting from free-radical damage.

Price at time of publish: $50

Key Ingredients: Peptides, vitamin C, squalane | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Ulta

View On Sephora View On Ulta View On Allbeauty.com

What We Like

Promotes collagen production
Improves elasticity
Minimizes fine lines

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Contains PEGs and fragrance

If it's firmer skin you're after, Murad's Youth Renewal Night Cream is your best bet. It combines collagen-stimulating niacinamide with multiple retinoids to enhance elasticity and reduce the look of fine lines.

Price at time of publish: $88

Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Firming Collagen Cream

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Ulta

What We Like

Nourishing formula
Helps clear skin
Good value

What We Don't Like

Slightly sticky
No SPF

This cream is a great pick because it contains a slew of skin-clearing and firming ingredients, including peptides, niacinamide, glycerin, and squalane. It's rich and nourishing, making it a wonderful option for dry, irritated, or lackluster skin.

Price at time of publish: $42

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, squalane | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

4.2

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Cream

Sephora

View On Sephora View On Charlottetilbury.com View On Kohls.com

What We Like

Deeply hydrates
Promotes collagen production
Works as makeup primer

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Not ideal for oily skin

A cult favorite for a reason, Charlotte Tilbury's Charlotte's Magic Cream is full of nourishing oils to leave the skin primed for makeup and glowy. There's also hyaluronic acid plus vitamins C and E to boost the skin's natural collagen formation, leaving you looking firm and radiant.

Price at time of publish: $100

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, peptides | Skin Type: Dry, mature | Size: 1–5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Soko Glam

View on Ulta View On Sokoglam.com View On Tonymoly.us

What We Like

Promotes collagen production
Firming
Minimizes fine lines

What We Don't Like

May irritate sensitive skin

Don't let the cute container fool you—this cream does serious work for the skin around your eyes. It boasts a blend of retinol and antioxidant-rich pumpkin extract (a source of vitamin C) to minimize fine lines, stimulate collagen, and firm the eye area.

Price at time of publish: $25

Key Ingredients: Retinol, pumpkin extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Neostrata Triple Firming Anti-Aging Neck Cream

Dermstore

View On Amazon View On Dermstore View On Walmart

What We Like

Generous amount
Promotes collagen production
Tightens, firms, and strengthens

What We Don't Like

Contains PEGs

You don't necessarily need a separate product for your neck, but if it helps you remember to moisturize the area, we're all for it. This neck cream calls on amino acids, which Dr. Garlapati says help the skin create collagen. It also contains Neocitriate, NeoStrata's patented molecule that promises to tighten, firm, and strengthen your skin.

Price at time of publish: $88

Key Ingredients: Amino acids, Neocitriate™ | Skin Type: Mature | Size: 2.8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Sol de Janeiro Beija Florâ¢ Elasti-Cream with Collagen and Squalane

Sephora

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Harveynichols.com

What We Like

Deeply moisturizing
Improves elasticity
Smells amazing

What We Don't Like

Contains paraffin

For below-the-neck care, go with Sol de Janeiro. This super-rich and luxurious body cream is formulated with collagen (from amino acids), squalane, and cacay oil to not only moisturize but also improve your skin's elasticity. The brand's signature fruity-floral scent doesn't hurt, either.

Price at time of publish: $48

Key Ingredients: Collagen, squalane, cacay oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 8.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Final Verdict

Our top pick is Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, a deeply hydrating moisturizer that reduces fine lines, firms the skin, and improves elasticity. For something more affordable, L'Oréal Collagen Moisture Filler is an excellent choice. But if you're interested in a retinol-infused formula and can swing the steep price, we recommend Kate Somerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer.

Meet the Expert

Ramya Garlapati, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and skincare expert based in Los Angeles.

What to Look for in a Collagen Cream

Your Skincare Goals

It’s important to understand how collagen functions in topical skincare products, so you can determine if it’s the best way to achieve your skincare goals. "Skincare formulated with collagen plumps, hydrates, and conditions the skin, though they definitely don't increase our collagen levels,” explains facialist and aesthetician Melanie Grant, before adding that “the molecular structure of collagen is far too large to penetrate the skin.” If your goals are to do any of the above, opt for a cream with the ingredient.

SPF, Vitamin C, and Retinol

So if your overarching goal is to increase your own collagen stores (in turn plumping the skin and improving the look of fine lines) Grant suggests looking out for other ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and SPF: “You want to protect the precious collagen stores that you already have by employing a good quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent collagen degradation via UV exposure. Vitamin A is a tried and tested ingredient for collagen synthesis, so incorporate a retinol serum into your nighttime routine. For daytime, layer a vitamin C serum underneath your SPF to boost collagen production and protect against free radicals.”

In some instances, you can get a product that not only contains collagen molecules but also one of the above, so keep this in mind when you’re shopping around.

Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid

These two ingredients are good boosters to collagen creams because they can help you achieve the short term results of plumping and brightening, while also contributing to better skin long term. According to Dr. Jennifer Hermann, MD, niacinamide, which is also known as vitamin b3, "helps restore cellular energy, repair damaged DNA, and reduce the immunosuppressive effects of sun-induced UV rays."

And hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin in a manner that can make fine lines less visible. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King says, "Hyaluronic acid can draw moisture from air and keep your skin moist, holding almost 1000 times its own weight in water."

FAQ

Is collagen cream the same as moisturizer?

Because they contain moisturizing ingredients that hydrate the skin, collagen creams can be considered moisturizers. And like other moisturizers, you can find different collagen creams that are best for certain skin types, such as sensitive skin or dry skin.
How can I rebuild collagen in my face?

As discussed, our skin loses collagen over time, which can cause sagging and wrinkles. Beyond using collagen creams to try to help restore the appearance of our skin, healthy lifestyle habits may contribute to slower collagen loss. Eating less sugar, quitting smoking, and using sunscreen regularly all may be beneficial for slowing down wrinkles.
What are the symptoms of lack of collagen?

From a visual perspective, the biggest symptoms of a lack of collagen are wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. Additionally, a lack of collagen might lead to brittle nails and hair.
What causes skin's depletion of collagen?

In addition to happening naturally (losing collagen is a part of life), lifestyle choices can also contribute to the depletion of collagen. Among those, smoking, drinking, and a diet that isn't nutrient-rich "can cause the collagen and elastin in our skin to decrease, leading it to become rigid and less effective—thus causing wrinkles, uneven leathery texture in the skin, and breakouts," according to estheticians.

Why Trust Byrdie

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer specializing in cosmetics. For this story, she compiled tips and insights from multiple experts, including a board-certified dermatologist and an esthetician. Of the above products, she has personally tried Elemis, Olay, Kate Somerville, RoC, Dr. Dennis Gross, Murad, and Charlotte Tilbury. Theresa covers skincare, makeup, haircare, and beauty tools at Byrdie.

Emily Algar is not here to tell you that collagen in topical skincare will fix all your problems because it won't. But she will say that collagen in skincare, when combined with other actives, can visibly improve the look of skin (and believe her when she says she's tried it all). Emily has also called on skin expert Melanie Grant to support these claims.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any collagen creams from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

The 12 Best Skin-Plumping Products of 2023

Article Sources

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