No doubt as populations age worldwide, there will be an ever-expanding market for an array of options to push back against some of the inevitable aspects of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin. Especially with the influence of such social media platforms as TikTok, there will inevitably be strange touted remedies ranging from beef fat to snake venom. But before you decide to slather your skin with fat from yesterday’s roast, you may be best off considering some options that have scientific research behind them.

First, let’s consider collagen. Previously we addressed whether collagen, a natural substance that provides strength, structure, and elasticity to your skin, and whose production naturally diminishes with age, could be returned to the body to support skin through some sort of supplement. Well, 2 new research studies seem to report that the regular intake of collagen as a supplement or part of a drink may in fact be valuable for supporting aging skin. The first study, described in Dermatology Times, was a randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind study of East Asian women and found that the daily consumption of 5 grams of collagen peptides positively affected skin density, elasticity, moisture, and the reduction of wrinkle depths, along with improvement of nails. Another recent study, this one published in the Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology, found that collagen and elastin peptide supplements combined in a drink can improve skin hydration, and elasticity, and reduce wrinkles in younger and middle-aged women. To find out more about this study, grab a glass and click here. And for a recently published list of recommended and dietitian-approved collagen supplements, look here.

Retinol is another ingredient that’s been studied and backed by scientific evidence for its value in improving aging skin. A recent article in Scientific American described retinol as the one stand-out ingredient backed by decades of research to significantly benefit skin, both in terms of acne and aging. The article describes in detail how retinol can benefit the skin, especially with the loss of collagen that accompanies aging, and the article suggests that over-the-counter products containing retinol can be as effective as those sold by prescription, though you may have to be a bit more patient to see the results. As another recent article about retinol in Medical News Bulletin makes clear, a stronger topical application is not always better and there can be side effects from too strong an application. Take a look at some recommended retinol products here.

Speaking of over-the-counter products, another recent study out of the Mayo Clinic, looking at topical treatments for skin aging on hands, found that two different over-the-counter options, human platelet extract (HPE) serum, and Vitamin C serum, both did an excellent job of reducing such common problems as age spots, wrinkles and uneven skin on hands, comparable to more invasive and expensive treatments. Just as with facial skin, more expensive and invasive options are not always necessary or even best. For some additional recommended products to soothe and attend to “mature” skin, grab a soft cloth and click here and here.