The best collagen serums, tested and reviewed

If you regularly scroll through your newsfeed in bed, there's a good chance you've come across all the buzz surrounding collagen. Believe it or not, the hashtag "collagen" has 1.6 million posts on TikTok alone. But what, in fact, is collagen — and how does it help with anti-aging?

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified, previously told Shop TODAY that “collagen is the main molecule in the skin that provides structure and support." He explained that after the age of 30, collagen production starts to decline, which contributes to fine lines and wrinkles.

Collagen serums make a great addition to your skin care routine in order to combat signs of aging, however, this particular product category may seem misleading. Why? Because many collagen serums don't actually contain collagen molecules (which are too large to be absorbed into the skin topically).

Instead, they "prioritize ingredients that stimulate collagen production and promote skin health," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi says.

We spoke with multiple board-certified dermatologists to find the best collagen serums for every skin type. Keep scrolling for our compressive list of expert-recommended products as well as an editor-tested favorite and other more affordable options — starting at only $10.

What to look for in a collagen serum | The best collagen serums, according to experts and tested by editors | More affordable collagen serums to shop | How we chose | Meet the experts

When it comes to searching for a specific collagen-boosting serum, it is imperative to first consider the list of ingredients.

“Collagen is a huge molecule that is not absorbed in the skin, but little pieces of collagen called peptides and amino acids can be absorbed and stimulate collagen production, and that is what you want,” she explains.

It's also helpful to “look for serums containing retinols to enhance cell turnover and boost collagen production," says Shirazi. "Peptides are another excellent choice, as they trick your skin in making more collagen."

“Antioxidants, like vitamin C, protect against free radical damage, hence preserve collagen in addition to playing an important role in collagen synthesis," Shirazi says.

"Additionally, formulations that include hydrating agents, such as hyaluronic acid, can improve skin texture and plumpness, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the serum," Shirazi continues.

Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Argireline peptide complex

"Formulated with a 10% concentration of Argireline peptide, it helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines by inhibiting muscle movement, similar to a gentle, topical version of Botox," explains Shirazi.

"Known for its ability to smooth expression lines and prevent further wrinkle formation, this serum is ideal for anyone looking to soften visible signs of aging without heavy textures or added oils," she says.

Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, collagen peptides

Dr. Kunal Malik, a New York City-based board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, loves this skin-softening serum from No7. "I like this serum as it is clinically studied to improve the appearance of wrinkles and contains peptides that help boost collagen production which leads to firmer more youthful looking skin," he says.

Size: 1.7 oz. | Key ingredients: Collagen peptide

Senior SEO editor Jess Bender has several face sunscreens in her daily rotation, but this lightweight serum is the one that she most regularly reaches for. "It absorbs quickly, evens out splotchy red areas (thanks to the collagen peptide in the formulation) and leaves my makeup pillage-free," she explains.

In addition to providing protection against the sun, this sunscreen serum also helps visibly correct early signs of aging, says the brand.

Size: 0.68 oz. | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid

"This one is great as it combines vitamin C which is a clinically studied antioxidant with proteoglycans and collagen-stimulating peptides for a well-rounded anti-aging solution," shares Malik. "It excels at improving skin firmness and elasticity over time," he suggests.

Size: 0.67 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, amino acids, pro-collagen peptides

"This lightweight gel serum contains pro-collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid and amino acids to hydrate skin and support collagen and elastin levels to make skin feel smoother and firmer," explains Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and New Jersey.

This hydrating serum is great for oily or acne-prone skin and is also free of fragrances and parabens.

Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Peptides

Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a big fan of this hydrating serum that is designed to help tackle signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. This product from Medik8 "contains 10 peptides in a very hydrating serum perfect for those with drier skin," she explains.

Amazon reviewers love that this collagen-boosting serum because it absorbs quickly into the skin and also has a nice texture.

Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide

This hydrating serum is "designed to plump, firm and smooth the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," says Shirazi. "This formula combines advanced peptides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to deeply hydrate and promote collagen synthesis, giving skin an instantly firmer, fuller look," she continues.

"It works by delivering moisture and nutrients directly into the skin’s layers to support elasticity and improve texture," Shirazi explains.

Size: 1.0 oz. | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, peptides

Jeffy recommends this anti-wrinkle serum from SkinCeutical which is "suitable for all skin types and tones," says the brand. This serum "combines peptides with niacinamide and barrier support for glowing smooth skin backed by clinical data," shares Jeffy.

Size: 1.85 oz. | Key ingredients: Hydrolized collagen, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

This Amazon's Choice lightweight collagen serum is enriched with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid and can be used on both the face and neck. Many satisfied customers speak to the absorbency of this serum and also say it makes their skin glow.

Size: 1.3 oz. | Key ingredients: Collagen peptide

If you're looking for a serum that is super hydrating, look no further. This serum provides the benefits of collagen peptide plus 24 hours of hydration, says the brand. This fragrance-free serum can be used on your face or neck and shouldn't leave a sticky or greasy residue on your skin.

Size: 5.07 oz. | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

Designed for all skin types, this collagen-boosting serum is infused with skin peptides that improve skin elasticity and reduce fine lines. This lightweight serum has over 1,900 five-star ratings on Amazon and is free of parabens.

Shirazi notes that it is important to avoid serums with high concentrations of alcohol, as they can dry and irritate the skin, which leads to decreased collagen levels over time.

“Fragrances and harsh preservatives may also cause irritation and inflammation, which can negatively impact skin health. Furthermore, be wary of products that contain high amounts of exfoliating acids, as excessive exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier and hinder collagen synthesis,” Shirazi mentions.

“Collagen itself is well tolerated but avoid products with fragrances or dyes if you have particularly sensitive skin,” adds Camp.

When it comes to how often to use a collagen serum, Shirazi suggests once or twice daily, depending on your skin's tolerance.

"If you’re incorporating a retinoid-based serum, it’s advisable to start with once nightly application and gradually increase to twice daily as your skin adapts," she explains. "Consistency is key, so make sure to integrate it into your daily skincare routine for at least 12 weeks to see significant improvements in collagen levels and overall skin texture," Shirazi suggests.

The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best collagen serums by enlisting the recommendations of board-certified dermatologists and also asked our editors to share a tried-and-true favorite product as well. Additionally, we combed through hundreds of user reviews to find top-rated products that were affordable.

Allie Wise is an associate editor for Shop TODAY.