Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for bones, skin, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is responsible for maintaining skin elasticity, volume, and moisture, and it helps make up proteins such as keratin that form skin, hair, and nails. As we age, our body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles. Collagen supplements have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity for older people, and they might also help to lessen wrinkles. However, there is no proof that collagen treats skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis, and skin creams with synthetic collagen may not be an effective way to boost this protein in your body. Topical treatments like retinol and tretinoin are scientifically proven to promote collagen formation, and antioxidants such as vitamin C can reverse the inflammation that causes damage to the collagen in your skin. Therefore, people are likely to get more benefit from retinol or vitamin C skin care products than from a collagen-containing cream.