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What Is Collagen? A Simple Guide To Firmer, Smoother-Looking Skin

What Is Collagen? A Simple Guide To Firmer, Smoother-Looking Skin

Collagen is one of the most important structural proteins in your skin. It helps keep everything firm, smooth and elastic. As we get older, our natural collagen levels slowly decrease, which is why skin can start to look less bouncy, less firm and more prone to fine lines.

Skincare products with collagen are designed to support the skin’s moisture levels, improve smoothness and help give the appearance of healthier, plumper skin. Here’s a simple guide to what collagen does and how it fits into your routine.

What Collagen Actually Is

Collagen is a protein your skin already has in large amounts. It gives your skin its natural firmness and strength. Over time, sun exposure, stress and ageing all make those levels drop. Topical collagen doesn’t replace the collagen inside the skin, but it helps improve hydration and smoothness on the surface.

It’s great if your skin is starting to feel less firm, looks dull or needs a boost in healthy-looking bounce.

What Collagen Does For Your Skin

Collagen in skincare mainly helps with hydration and plumpness. It forms a protective, moisturising layer on the skin, which helps keep water in and gives a smoother appearance.

People use collagen products to help with:

• Dry or dehydrated skin
• Fine lines caused by dryness
• Dullness
• Loss of bounce or elasticity
• Rough or tired-looking skin

It’s not a harsh ingredient. It simply helps your skin feel more nourished and refreshed.

Who Collagen Is Best For

Collagen is great for anyone who wants a smoother, more hydrated look. It’s especially helpful if you have:

• Mature skin
• Dry skin
• Skin that feels thin or delicate
• Early signs of ageing
• Dull or lacklustre skin

It’s also gentle enough for sensitive skin and safe to use with almost anything.

When To Use Collagen

You can use collagen morning or night. Many people enjoy using it in both routines because it sits well under moisturiser and gives an instant softening effect.

If your skin is dry or you’re using stronger active ingredients, collagen can help round out your routine by adding comfort and hydration.

What Not To Mix With Collagen

There are no major ingredient conflicts with collagen. It’s mild, hydrating and works well with almost all other skincare ingredients.

You can safely use it with retinol, AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid and more.

What Works Well With Collagen

Collagen works especially well with ingredients that support hydration and skin smoothness.

It pairs nicely with:

• Hyaluronic Acid
• Aloe Vera
• Vitamin E
• Avocado oil
• Niacinamide
• Gentle moisturisers

If your skin needs a hydration boost, using collagen alongside a hydrating serum can make a big difference in how soft and plump it feels.

How Long It Takes To See Results

Collagen products usually provide a quick improvement in softness and hydration — sometimes within a few days. Smoother texture and a more refreshed look typically appear within two to four weeks of consistent use.

How To Use Collagen Correctly

Apply it after cleansing and before moisturiser. If your collagen product is a serum, use a few drops and follow with a cream. If it’s a cream, apply it as your final step in your AM or PM routine.

The Skin-T Collagen Serum

Skin-T’s Collagen serum is made to deeply hydrate the skin, soften dry areas and help give a smoother, plumper appearance. It layers well with all other Skin-T serums and fits into any routine looking for more comfort and bounce.

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