Collagen and hyaluronic acid: the anti-aging duo for firmness and hydration

With age, skin naturally evolves. It can become drier, less plump, lose density, and show more visible fine lines and wrinkles. These changes are linked to several biological phenomena: progressive decrease in collagen, reduction in cutaneous hyaluronic acid, slowdown in cell renewal, oxidative stress, and UV exposure.

In this context, collagen and hyaluronic acid are two major active ingredients in beauty routines, both in cosmetics and nutricosmetics. Collagen contributes to the skin's structure and resistance. Hyaluronic acid, meanwhile, is known for its ability to retain water and promote a plumping effect.

Rather than opposing these two active ingredients, it is therefore more relevant to understand how collagen and hyaluronic acid can work complementarily to support skin hydration, skin firmness, and skin elasticity.

Collagen and hyaluronic acid are naturally present in the skin, but they do not have the same function. Collagen is a structural protein, while hyaluronic acid is a molecule involved in water retention and skin comfort.

Over time, their presence and quality gradually decrease. The skin may then appear less firm, less supple, and less hydrated. This is why these two active ingredients are often combined in beauty routines aimed at firmness, hydration, and radiance.

Collagen forms a significant part of the extracellular matrix. It creates a support network that contributes to the density, resistance, and firmness of the skin. In the skin, type I and III collagens are particularly important. With age, collagen production gradually slows down. This evolution can contribute to a loss of tone, visible sagging, and more pronounced wrinkles.

In dietary supplements, collagen is generally used in the form of hydrolyzed collagen, also known as collagen peptides. This form is obtained through hydrolysis, a process that breaks down the protein into smaller peptides, which are better suited for oral intake.

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the skin. Its main role is to retain water in tissues, which contributes to skin comfort, suppleness, and plumpness.

Dehydrated skin can appear duller, thinner, and more marked by dehydration fine lines. Hyaluronic acid can therefore be incorporated into a routine aimed at supporting skin hydration and the plump appearance of the face.

The combination of collagen and hyaluronic acid is relevant because it targets two complementary needs: structure and hydration. Collagen acts more on the structural quality of the skin, while hyaluronic acid supports its hydration and plump appearance.

The main interest of collagen and hyaluronic acid lies in the skin. This combination addresses several common concerns: loss of firmness, lack of hydration, fine lines, dull complexion, less dense skin, or sensation of tightness.

The benefits are progressive and depend on the quality of the formula, the dosage, age, initial skin condition, and regularity of intake.

Hyaluronic acid helps to maintain good skin hydration. It is particularly beneficial for dehydrated skin, thin skin, or skin lacking plumpness. Collagen, on the other hand, is more associated with skin firmness and elasticity. Collagen peptides are studied for their benefits in beauty routines aimed at supporting skin density and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Together, collagen and hyaluronic acid integrate into a complete beauty routine for visibly more comfortable, supple, and radiant skin.

Collagen and hyaluronic acid are also present in some connective tissues. Type II collagen is more associated with cartilage, while hyaluronic acid is naturally present in synovial fluid.

In a skin-oriented formula, the primary benefit remains cutaneous. However, some formulas can also be part of a more global approach including joint comfort, depending on the type of collagen used and the associated active ingredients.

For hair and nails, the primary interest comes from collagen and complementary active ingredients like biotin, zinc, keratin, or certain amino acids. Hyaluronic acid is less central to this objective. Its role is more related to hydration, skin comfort, and the plumping effect.

After 30, the first visible signs can appear: fine lines, loss of radiance, skin fatigue. After 40, loss of firmness can become more noticeable. After 50, skin often becomes drier, thinner, and less dense.

Therefore, mature skin can benefit from a global approach combining collagen and hyaluronic acid, an adapted cosmetic routine, hydration, a balanced diet, and daily sun protection.

The quality of a formula depends on the nature of the active ingredients, their dosage, purity, traceability, galenic form, and the consistency of the associated ingredients.

The question of marine collagen comes up frequently. However, a systematic hierarchy should not be created between marine and bovine collagen. Quality primarily depends on hydrolysis, purity, peptide size, traceability, and the rigor of the manufacturing process.

Marine collagen can be chosen based on personal, dietary, or tolerance preferences, but origin alone is not enough to guarantee product quality.

The presence of hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides is an important point. This form is obtained by hydrolysis, which fragments the protein into smaller peptides, better suited for oral intake. A good collagen food supplement should therefore specify the form used, the daily dosage, and the quality of the raw material.

It is useful to check the daily dose of collagen, the quantity of hyaluronic acid, the presence of complementary active ingredients, the simplicity of the composition, and the product's form. A well-constructed formula should be clear, well-dosed, and easy to follow daily.

Vitamin C is particularly relevant in a collagen and hyaluronic acid formula because it contributes to normal collagen formation to ensure normal skin function. The combination of vitamin C and collagen can therefore strengthen the consistency of a beauty routine. Zinc, copper, or biotin can also complement the formula depending on the desired goal: skin, hair, nails, or radiance.

Consistency is key. Collagen and hyaluronic acid should not be seen as a one-time intake, but as a progressive nutricosmetic program. Clinical studies on collagen peptides and oral hyaluronic acid generally evaluate results after several weeks, often between 8 and 12 weeks.

The best time is one that allows for consistency. In the morning, the supplement can be integrated into breakfast or a drink. In the evening, it can accompany a more comprehensive beauty routine. It is especially important to respect the recommended dose by the manufacturer.

The effects are gradual. Hydration and comfort can sometimes be felt after a few weeks, while firmness, skin elasticity, and the appearance of wrinkles generally require more time.

A routine of 8 to 12 weeks is often relevant to observe changes in skin quality.

The format depends on habits and the desired dosage. Powder often provides a higher dose of collagen. Sticks are practical and portable. Capsules are discreet, but sometimes less suitable for high dosages. Gummies are pleasant, but their sugar content, additives, and actual active ingredient dosage should be checked.

A simple routine can combine:

• daily intake of collagen and hyaluronic acid for 8 to 12 weeks
• a balanced diet, rich in proteins, fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants
• sufficient hydration
• a cosmetic routine adapted to your skin type
• daily sun protection to limit UV-related skin aging

This global approach strengthens the consistency of the anti-aging routine.

Collagen and hyaluronic acid supplements are generally well tolerated, but certain precautions are still necessary. It is important to respect recommended doses, avoid combining similar supplements, and check the composition in case of digestive sensitivity or allergies.

Some people may experience mild digestive discomfort, especially at the beginning of intake. To limit this risk, it is advisable to respect the recommended dose, take the supplement with a meal if necessary, and choose a clear formula without excessive additives.

People allergic to fish should be cautious with formulas containing marine collagen. In case of medical treatment, known pathology, or specific monitoring, it is preferable to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

During pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional before any supplementation.

There is no true plant-based collagen identical to animal collagen. So-called "vegan" alternatives are rather formulas that provide nutrients useful for normal collagen synthesis, such as vitamin C, zinc, copper, or certain amino acids. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, can be derived from fermentation depending on the formula.

• Proksch E., Segger D., Degwert J., Schunck M., Zague V., Oesser S. Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides has beneficial effects on human skin physiology: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2014;27(1):47-55

• Kim D.U., Chung H.C., Choi J., Sakai Y., Lee B.Y. Oral intake of low-molecular-weight collagen peptide improves hydration, elasticity and wrinkling in human skin: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrients. 2018;10(7):826

• Hsu T.F., Su Z.R., Hsieh Y.H., Wang M.F., Oe M., Matsuoka R., Masuda Y. Oral hyaluronan relieves wrinkles and improves dry skin: a 12-week double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Nutrients. 2021;13(7):2220

• Michelotti A., Cestone E., De Ponti I., Pisati M., Spartà E., Tursi F. Oral intake of a new full-spectrum hyaluronan improves skin profilometry and ageing: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur J Dermatol. 2021;31(6):798-805

• de Miranda R.B., Weimer P., Rossi R.C. Effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Dermatol. 2021;60(12):1449-1461