Collagen-stimulating injectables, used to ‘bank’ collagen and improve skin elasticity, have become an unignorable feature of aesthetics. Gaining in popularity to be somewhat on par with dermal fillers and botulinum toxin, it seems collagen is the new priority.

But how exactly do injectables compare with other forms of ‘delivery’ we have known about for years, such as collagen supplements and skincare products? We spoke to the experts to break this down for you.

Why are collagen-stimulating injections so popular?

The experts agree that there’s been a rise in popularity of collagen injections because of their unique benefits. “They focus on enhancing the skin’s natural ability to restore itself,” explains EV Expert and Aesthetic Doctor Dr. Raquel Amado.

“People are increasingly seeking treatments that promote long-term skin health rather than just short-term fixes,” she adds, before explaining that these injections are able to “improve skin texture, elasticity, and firmness over time.”

For those looking for longer-term results, collagen-stimulating injections are also a great alternative to dermal fillers.

“Unlike hyaluronic acid dermal fillers which are focused on providing immediate volume, these treatments are known as bio-stimulators, and work at rejuvenating the skin by encouraging natural collagen production,” clarifies EV Expert and Cosmetic Doctor, Dr Emmaline Ashley. “This makes them a regenerative—rather than purely cosmetic—solution. The results are long-lasting, often visible for up to two or three years or more.”

How do collagen-stimulating injections work?

“These injections work by activating your body’s natural collagen production,” says Dr Amado. Collagen is essential to the skin’s elasticity and firmness, and it naturally decreases as we age, meaning injections like these can aid in the anti-ageing process.

More specifically, says Dr Ashley, “these injectables work by introducing biocompatible substances into the skin, triggering the body’s natural wound-healing response. This response activates fibroblasts, which produce collagen, gradually restoring skin density and elasticity.”

It’s a clever process, and one that can induce a little volume to begin with, and work over time for a rejuvenated appearance.

What are the key collagen-stimulating injectables?

There has been an influx of modern injectables that stimulate collagen over the past couple of years – and several of them are most notable.

EV Expert, GP and Aesthetician, Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, looks to Ellansé (Polycaprolactone) as his go-to. “This helps with collagen production and can last for up to two years. It can naturally improve skin quality, and add natural volume to the face.”

Dr Amado mentions HArmonyCa, which she describes as "a hybrid injectable combining hyaluronic acid with calcium hydroxyapatite for immediate lifting and long-term collagen stimulation.”

Then there’s Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid/PLLA), Radiesse (Calcium Hydroxylapatite), Juvelook (Poly D,L – lactide) and Lenisna (Hybrid of HA and Poly D,L – lactide), all of which are brought up by Dr Ashley.

Each doctor will prefer a specific collagen stimulant, and should discuss your options with you.

How do they compare to supplements and skincare?

So we’ve established that collagen-stimulating injectables are increasingly popular, but how exactly do they compare to other delivery methods? The most common options—both of which are more affordable and easy to access—are collagen supplements that you take orally (through capsules or powder), and topical skincare that promises to increase collagen production through application.

As far as which will deliver more targeted, long-lasting and effective results, the experts agree that injectables are preferable if collagen stimulation and rejuvenation is the key goal.

“Injectables are able to deliver targeted, deep dermal stimulation,” says Dr Ashley. Dr Amado adds: “Injectables deliver targeted results directly where collagen production is needed most, making them more effective for structural improvements.”

In terms of supplements and topical applications, these are more complementary steps you can take, rather than ones that will produce noticeable results alone. “Topical skincare products, such as vitamin C or retinoids, support collagen production but will not produce the same volume as is achievable with biostimulatory injections,” notes Dr Ashley, while Dr El Muntasar explains that, “nothing topically puts more collagen into the skin.”

“Collagen supplements support overall collagen production from within but may take longer to show visible results. They work greatly in combination with treatments in clinic,” concludes Dr Amado.

There is no harm in using both delivery methods, but for best results, they can be taken/applied in conjunction with collagen-stimulating injectables.