Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration and Elasticity, suggests research
A new systematic review and meta-analysis by Kamal Kant Kohli and colleagues, published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology (2025), has found that oral collagen supplementation significantly improves skin hydration and elasticity in adults. The review analyzed clinical trials where participants consumed collagen-based supplements at daily doses ranging from 1 to 10 grams. Across studies, individuals who took collagen showed measurable improvements in both skin moisture retention and firmness compared to those who received placebo. The findings suggest that consistent collagen intake supports the skin’s structural integrity and helps counteract age-related decline in dermal hydration and elasticity.
The authors noted that collagen peptides appear to act by stimulating fibroblast activity and increasing the production of endogenous collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid—key molecules that maintain the skin’s smoothness and resilience. These effects were observed across a range of formulations, including hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides derived from bovine, porcine, and marine sources. The review also pointed out that improvements were typically seen after several weeks of regular supplementation, indicating that collagen exerts gradual but cumulative effects on dermal physiology. Interestingly, no serious adverse effects were reported, supporting collagen’s safety and tolerability as a nutraceutical intervention for skin health.
From a practical perspective, these results strengthen the growing clinical evidence behind collagen supplementation as part of an evidence-based skincare regimen. While topical products provide surface-level benefits, oral collagen may offer deeper, systemic effects by supporting the skin’s extracellular matrix from within. The authors emphasize that collagen intake should complement, not replace, balanced nutrition and sun protection. They also call for future research to explore optimal dosages, long-term efficacy, and the relative benefits of different collagen sources. Overall, this review reinforces that dietary collagen supplementation is a safe and effective approach to maintaining skin hydration and elasticity over time.
Keywords: collagen supplementation, skin hydration, elasticity, anti-aging, dermal health, nutraceuticals
Reference:
Danessa, G., Notario, D., & Regina, R. (2025). Effects of collagen-based supplements on skin’s hydration and elasticity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 91(6), 730–740. https://doi.org/10.25259/IJDVL_1165_2023
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