Michigan plastic surgeon Dr Youn shares 3 dietary additions to boost collagen production for better skin, hair and nails

Published on: Nov 3, 2025, 12:23:59 IST

By Eshana Saha

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Focusing on your collagen intake can improve the health of your skin. (Pexel)

Collagen is essential for the health of your skin, as well as hair and nails. Dr Anthony Youn suggests the following methods to boost collagen production.

Healthy skin, strong nails, and glossy hair all depend on one key structural protein - collagen. As we age, our body’s natural collagen production slows down, leading to visible signs such as fine lines, brittle nails, and thinning hair. However, certain dietary choices can help replenish and support collagen levels from within.

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Dr Anthony Youn, a holistic plastic surgeon, anti-aging expert, and award-winning author of Younger for Life, has shared three ways to boost collagen production in order to support skin, hair, and nail health. In an Instagram video posted on August 20, the plastic surgeon details dietary additions that support collagen production for better skin, hair, nails and even bones.

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A post shared by Anthony Youn, MD (@tonyyounmd)

Prioritise proteins

According to Dr Youn, protein plays a vital role in collagen production, as collagen itself is a complex and large protein structure. He explains, “Collagen is a large protein, and you need to get it in your diet in order to support collagen production and prevent collagen breakdown. Some doctors are recommending upwards of 100 grams of protein per day, or approximately 30 grams per meal.”

Get sufficient vitamin C

Dr Youn emphasises that vitamin C is not only a powerful antioxidant but also “absolutely essential” for collagen production. He adds that it’s not limited to citrus fruits - leafy greens and a variety of other fruits and vegetables are also excellent sources.

Hydrolysed collagen supplements

Dr Youn explains, “There are many studies that show that taking a daily hydrolyzed collagen supplement can support the collagen of your skin and also possibly your nails, your hair, and even your bones.” He recommends supplements that contain a blend of high-quality Type 1 collagen peptides. You can easily add them to your hot tea, coffee, or smoothie.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eshana Saha
Eshana Saha is a fresh face in lifestyle and cultural journalism, bringing a refined, multidisciplinary perspective to the intersection of entertainment, fashion and holistic wellbeing. With less than a year of professional experience, she has quickly adapted to high-pressure editorial environments and currently works full-time with HT Media. Prior to this, she interned for nearly six months with Hindustan Times’ entertainment and lifestyle vertical, where she gained hands-on experience in digital reporting, trend analysis and editorial storytelling. Based in New Delhi, Eshana specialises in comprehensive coverage of major cultural moments — from international film press tours to the curated aesthetics of global fashion showcases, award shows and music-centred events. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from St Xavier’s University, Kolkata, and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Delhi, equipping her with a strong academic foundation and a keen ability to deconstruct complex cultural trends into clear, high-impact narratives. Beyond the red carpet, Eshana has developed a growing focus on health and wellbeing reporting. She bridges the gap between celebrity-driven trends and practical, evidence-informed lifestyle advice, ensuring her work remains both aspirational and grounded in editorial rigour. She has extensively covered the health implications of Delhi’s air pollution crisis, while also playing a key role in amplifying expert-led insights on women’s health and mental wellbeing, helping translate complex medical perspectives into informed, impactful public awareness. An artist at heart, she explores multiple creative forms — from visual arts and music to culinary experiments — and brings a creative’s eye for nuance, texture and detail to every story. Whether analysing runway dynamics or examining emerging wellness movements, she remains committed to accuracy and the highest standards of contemporary journalistic ethics.Read More

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