Collagen Supplements Shown to Enhance Skin and Joint Health in Major Review
A comprehensive new review has confirmed that collagen supplements, popularised by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Victoria Beckham, genuinely improve skin elasticity and joint health. However, researchers emphasise they are not a 'quick fix' for wrinkles and should be positioned as a holistic approach to skin maintenance.
Study Details and Key Findings
Conducted by experts at Anglia Ruskin University, the review analysed evidence from 16 reviews and 113 trials involving nearly 8,000 patients. Published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, it found that long-term collagen intake is linked to better skin hydration and elasticity. The supplements act as 'agents of deeper tissue regeneration' rather than superficial cosmetic aids.
Despite these benefits, the review noted that collagen did not significantly reduce skin roughness. Professor Lee Smith, a public health expert at ARU, stated: 'Collagen is not a cure-all but it does have credible benefits when used consistently over time, particularly for skin and osteoarthritis.'
Target Audience and Additional Benefits
Researchers suggest collagen should be considered a 'legitimate' additional treatment for ageing in post-menopausal women or patients with UV-damaged skin. It could also help ease arthritis symptoms, such as stiff and painful joints, and improve muscle health.
Collagen is a protein naturally abundant in the body, crucial for supporting skin, nails, bones, and connective tissues. Production declines with age, leading to wrinkles and joint stiffness, which supplements aim to counteract through tablets, liquids, or powders.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The ARU team highlighted: 'This distinction matters. Collagen may be best positioned not as an anti-wrinkle 'quick fix' but as a foundational dermal support for holistic skin maintenance.' They caution against 'bold claims' about anti-ageing, advocating for realistic expectations and consistent use for optimal results.
