What evidence is there that collagen oral supplements help with skin and anti-aging?

The evidence supporting the use of collagen oral supplements for skin health and anti-aging is quite robust:

1. Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides: Experts underline the importance of using hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are smaller, bioavailable proteins broken down from larger collagen molecules, making them easier for the body to absorb. This form is specifically designed to address concerns about the body's ability to digest and utilize collagen 1 2 3.

   Collagen Supplement Science

   Dr. Anthony Youn

   Dr. Anthony shares how hydrolyzed collagen peptides are crucial for absorption. Scientific studies demonstrate significant improvements in skin hydration, fine lines, and elasticity with collagen supplements. Clinical trials reveal thicker collagen and skin after supplement use, highlighting their impactful benefits.

   

   Dhru Purohit Show

   Fix Your Diet & Lifestyle to Heal Your Skin: Reverse Acne, Aging & Wrinkles with Dr. Anthony Youn

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2. Scientific Studies: Multiple randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials suggest significant benefits. For instance, a meta-analysis encompassing around 1400 participants over 90 days showed statistically significant improvements in wrinkles, skin hydration, and elasticity 2. Similar studies involving skin biopsies reveal increased collagen content and skin thickness after collagen supplementation 1.

3. Specific Benefits: Collagen peptides have shown particular promise in enhancing skin hydration and reducing wrinkles. These effects have been consistently observed across various studies, indicating a real, tangible benefit of collagen supplementation for skin health 4 5.

4. Skepticism & Evidence: Although there is some skepticism, often due to misunderstanding or a general anti-supplement stance, the data primarily contradicts these views by showing positive outcomes 1 4.

5. Ancestral Eating Habits: Some experts also reference traditional diets, noting that ancestral consumption of collagen-rich parts of animals (like bone broth) aligns with modern practices of collagen supplementation, though specific modern studies on bone broth for skin health are lacking 6.

In summary, the scientific evidence supporting collagen oral supplements for skin health and anti-aging is substantial, particularly when using hydrolyzed collagen peptides. These supplements have been shown to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce wrinkles, validated by rigorous clinical trials and meta-analyses.