If You Think Collagen Supplements Are All Hype, This Will Make You Reconsider

Luckily, more and more research on this skin-boosting supplement is breaking the surface year after year. To come, the most recent findings you should know about and how to spot a worthy supplement for peak complexion glow.

A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Cures evaluated 14 different studies, encompassing almost 1,000 participants total. The result? Consistent improvement in skin elasticity and hydration after finishing a 12-week regime of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation1. 

Skin elasticity, as you may imagine, refers to your skin's ability to be stretch, bounce back, and act supple—a factor which unfortunately breaks down with age as your elastin and collagen simultaneously decreases. The onset for this process is earlier than you might imagine, with studies suggesting the mid-20s as a starting point for some people2. So improving elasticity is a vital part of avoiding sagging, fine lines, and sallowness—telltale signs of aging.

Apart from keeping the skin barrier function happy and thriving (an essential job of your largest organ), increased moisture in the skin will also lead to an improved appearance of fine lines and wrinkles—hence, why so many young 20-somethings with dehydrated skin often mistake this for premature wrinkles. 

Now, while these findings are another positive tick on the board for collagen supplements, I have to point out one major distinction: These beneficial effects come from hydrolyzed collagen peptides—a crucial component researchers call out in the study.

When shopping, you’ll certainly want to seek hydrolyzed peptides on the list of credentials, but you should also look for additional skin-loving ingredients to make the product worth your money. Below, a quick list of some to consider: 

Here, a carefully curated list of A+ beauty supplements to kick off your search.

A recent meta-analysis found that 12 weeks of collagen supplementation can lead to improvements in both skin elasticity and moisture levels. Consider this more exciting research that just may cause beauty advocates to consider (and for some, reconsider) the validity of collagen supplements for optimized skin aging. Plus, there are plenty more benefits beyond skin-deep aesthetics—here’s a full guide to the buzzy peptide if you’re curious.