Vitamins That Produce Collagen

• Vitamins for collagen production can be found in many foods, supplements and creams. ballyscanlon/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  Collagen is the protein that strengthens the underlying strength and appearance of the skin. As we age, there are many biological and environmental factors that can damage and slow down the body's production of collagen. There are many vitamins found in foods, supplements and topical creams that can produce collagen enabling you to prevent and improve damage caused by reduction of collagen.

Vitamin A

• Vitamin A can acquired through a normal diet and supplements easily enough, but to really get its full effects for the skin it can be applied as retinol cream, vitamin A's natural form, to reach and rejuvenate the inner most layers of elastin fibers. The result is a more even skin tone, increased firmness and reduction of wrinkles. Foods with a healthy supply of vitamin A include organ meats, sweet potatoes and cabbage. The recommended daily amounts for adults 19 years and older are 3,000 IU for males and 2,333 IU for females.

Vitamin C

• Collagen is comprised of amino acids that need the hydrogen and oxygen supplied by vitamin C. With vitamin C deficiencies, collagen weakens the elasticity and wrinkled skin develops. Foods such as fruits, vegetables and leafy greens are among the many rich in vitamin C. You can also take supplements and apply vitamin C topical creams. The recommended daily amount for non-smoking adults 19 years and older are 90 mg per day for males and 75 mg per day for females.

Vitamin E

• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can smooth rough skin and wrinkles and possibly protect the skin from skin cancer. Vitamin E is found naturally in almonds, avocado and peanut butter among many other sources. It also comes in the form of supplements and skin lotions. The recommended daily amount for adults 19 years and older is 15 mg for both males and females.

Coenzyme Q10

• Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is produced naturally by the human body but its production can be decreased due to aging. It plays a vital role in protecting the cells that produce collagen. CoQ10 is found naturally in foods such as beef, leafy green vegetables and tuna. However, taking a supplement between 30 and 100 mg is beneficial. CoQ10 is readily available in lotions and creams, too.