Collagen supplements are increasingly popular in the beauty industry, claiming to improve skin hydration, smoothness, and overall youthfulness. However, experts at Laser by Aleya indicate that the effectiveness of these supplements is not as clear-cut as advertising suggests.
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Recent reviews have identified some benefits for skin health associated with collagen supplementation, although these findings may significantly depend on the quality of studies and potential biases related to funding sources. Consumers are advised to consider these factors rather than simply seeking the "best collagen for skin."
Collagen is a structural protein that contributes to skin strength and elasticity. When ingested, collagen undergoes digestion, breaking down into peptides and amino acids rather than being delivered intact to the skin. This means that collagen supplements do not directly replace lost collagen in the skin; instead, the body utilizes the peptides and amino acids in various ways.
The evidence regarding the effectiveness of collagen supplements is mixed. A 2023 meta-analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials with 1,721 participants found that hydrolyzed collagen significantly enhanced skin hydration and elasticity compared to a placebo. However, the authors noted potential biases in these studies.
In contrast, a systematic review published in 2025 in The American Journal of Medicine assessed 23 randomized controlled trials involving 1,474 participants taking oral collagen for skin aging. This review reported improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkles. Notably, when analyzing the studies by their funding source, those without pharmaceutical backing showed no significant benefits, while funded studies did. Additionally, high-quality studies found no notable effects across the outcomes measured.
These findings suggest that while collagen supplements may offer some benefits, the quality and source of the evidence significantly influence the results. There is no consensus on a single best collagen option for skin health, as various studies have explored differing collagen sources, formulations, and treatment durations, complicating comparisons. A 2019 review in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology suggested preliminary evidence that oral collagen could enhance skin elasticity and hydration, but emphasized the necessity for further research to establish optimal formulations and dosages.