Derms & Plastic Surgeons Love These 3 Secret Weapons For Stronger Skin

Quick question: How often do you think about the strength of your skin? Not its tone, clarity, or any other aesthetic outcome but how well it functions underneath the surface? 

The answer, for many, is something along the lines of Uh, not really. But strong skin is something experts strongly suggest you start prioritizing. Your skin, after all, is a multipronged defense system—and when the system operates at full strength, it better performs that protective role, keeping out environmental aggressors and locking in moisture. 

And guess what? When you focus on the strength of your skin, those coveted aesthetic benefits tend to follow. So without further ado, here are some expert-approved, MVP ingredients to fortify your skin barrier: 

"Collagen is what makes the skin nice and firm, tight, and youthful," holistic plastic surgeon Anthony Youn, M.D., reminds us on the mindbodygreen podcast, but, alas, that skin-firming protein starts to decline once you hit your mid-20s. 

This is where collagen powders come into play: Research shows these supplements are able to enhance your body's own collagen production1 by stimulating fibroblasts, those same cells that make collagen and elastin to begin with. As a result, targeted supplementation can support skin elasticity2 and potentially make fine lines appear smaller.

Ceramides are directly responsible for the strength of your skin. Housed in the uppermost layer of skin cells, these lipids function as the "glue" that holds your skin barrier together. 

As board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, M.D., once shared with mbg, "Ceramides are thought to be the most important component for maintaining barrier function." And a thriving skin barrier equals resilient, healthy skin overall. 

But like most good things, your natural ceramide supply declines with age—which is why experts recommend seeking ceramides in your skin care products. Research shows that when applied topically, phytoceramides (aka, plant-based ceramides) dramatically improved the rate of repair of a damaged stratum corneum3, or the top skin layer. You can also take beauty supplements that have phytoceramides in them. 

Thought we'd rattle off skin care heroes without mentioning SPF? Think again. Proper sun care is imperative for resilient skin, period and full stop. 

And if you do experience sun damage? (Hey, it happens!) Look for barrier-supporting ingredients like aloe vera, squalene, and shea butter, and keep your routine very minimal and soothing as your skin heals. 

The takeaway 

Strong skin equals healthy, glowing skin. When you focus on the function of your skin cells, firmer, plumper, brighter skin tends to follow suit. Think of MVPs like collagen, ceramides, and SPF as "trainers" for your skin. With their support, you'll hit your skin goals in no time (and, better yet, maintain them long term!).