Dr Amir Khan has sparked a debate after revealing that collagen supplements may not deliver the anti-ageing benefits many expect. Appearing on Good Morning Britain on March 27, the doctor told host Kate Garraway that the evidence does not support claims that collagen reduces wrinkles or improves skin health.
Dr Amir explained that when collagen is ingested, the body breaks it down into amino acids, which are then used wherever needed—not necessarily for skin or hair. He cited a 2025 meta-analysis that found no benefit to skin or hair when industry-funded research was excluded. However, he acknowledged that collagen can aid joint health, especially for postmenopausal women.
Instead of supplements, Dr Amir recommended obtaining collagen naturally through diet, including foods like bone broth, fish, chicken, and eggs, paired with vitamin C-rich foods for better absorption. He warned that relying on supplements might lead people to neglect a balanced diet.
Kate Garraway was visibly shocked when Dr Amir listed the biggest collagen depleters: sunlight, smoking, alcohol, stress, sleep deprivation, and sugar. She joked that he had described her entire lifestyle. Dr Amir emphasised that protecting skin with SPF and avoiding harmful habits are more effective than taking supplements.
