Collagen supplements, while not a “quick fix” for wrinkles, can improve skin elasticity and hydration and may alleviate arthritis symptoms, according to new research published today. The findings, stemming from an analysis of 113 clinical trials involving nearly 8,000 patients worldwide, suggest a “legitimate” benefit to the supplements, particularly for post-menopausal women and individuals with UV-damaged skin.
The comprehensive review, conducted by experts at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), found that consistent, long-term use of collagen supplements was linked to measurable improvements in skin health. However, the study, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, did not find significant effects on skin roughness.
Researchers emphasize that the supplements function as “agents of deeper tissue regeneration,” supporting an “inside-out model of skin rejuvenation” rather than offering merely “superficial cosmetic aids.” This distinction, according to the ARU team, is crucial for public health messaging.
“Collagen may be best positioned not as an anti-wrinkle ‘quick fix’ but as a foundational dermal support for individuals seeking holistic skin maintenance,” researchers stated. The study too indicated potential benefits for those suffering from arthritis, noting a reduction in joint pain and stiffness.
Despite the positive findings, experts caution against the “bold claims” often made by manufacturers regarding the anti-ageing benefits of collagen. Professor Lee Smith, a public health expert at ARU, noted that many studies are funded by the supplement industry itself. “Bold claims have been made in relation to collagen supplementation and often by those marketing the product,” he said. “Promises have been made by manufacturers that collagen supplementation results in significant, rapid, and full-body anti-ageing.”
Smith clarified that while collagen is “not a cure-all,” it possesses “credible benefits when used consistently over time, particularly for skin and osteoarthritis.” He added that improvements in skin tone and moisture can contribute to a more youthful appearance, supporting the claim of anti-ageing effects for certain parameters.
The cost of collagen supplementation remains a significant factor for consumers. According to Shefalee Loth, a nutritionist at consumer group Which?, supplements can cost at least £25 per month for daily use, and consistent, long-term intake is necessary to achieve the reported benefits. “Collagen supplements are often marketed with bold anti-ageing claims, but scientific evidence to support them is limited,” Loth said. “It’s worth remembering that You’ll see currently no approved health claims for collagen supplements on the nutrition and health claims register.”
The study’s authors acknowledge the need for further research into optimal collagen dosage, duration of use, and the potential impact of body composition on its effectiveness. No definitive conclusions were reached regarding the superiority of specific collagen types – marine, bovine, or vegan – and further investigation is required.
