TV doctor Amir Khan has issued a reality check on collagen supplements, warning that the evidence does not support claims they reverse ageing or improve skin, hair, and nails. Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain, the NHS GP explained that while collagen is the body's most abundant protein, supplements are broken down into amino acids and do not automatically target wrinkles.
What Did Dr Khan Say?
Dr Khan posted an Instagram video addressing the marketing blitz targeting women. He told host Kate Garraway: "Collagen is a protein our body makes itself. As we age, production slows. Marketing sells it as anti-ageing, but evidence doesn't support that. When you take a supplement, your gut breaks it down into amino acids, which your body uses wherever needed—not specifically for skin or hair."
Studies and Evidence
He referenced a 2025 review of 23 randomised controlled trials. Initial data suggested improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, but after excluding industry-funded studies, no benefit was found for skin, hair, or nails. However, some evidence suggests modest relief for joint pain in people with arthritis or high exercise loads.
Natural Alternatives
Dr Khan advised supporting collagen naturally: stop smoking, wear sunscreen, eat protein and vitamin C, and get good sleep. Foods like chicken skin, bone broth, lentils, beans, nuts, and seeds can help. He concluded: "Would I spend hundreds a year on collagen? Probably not. If you feel better, the evidence suggests a modest effect, but it's not essential."
Public Reaction
Followers thanked him for the truth. One said: "I take collagen and my shoulder joint pain disappeared, but no hair improvement. Eating well is best." Another added: "The body decides where amino acids go—no sat nav to wrinkles!"
