Collagen is one of the most essential proteins found in the human body and it is key to having and keeping skin that looks youthful. It is made up of amino acids, which come from the protein eaten in our diet. Collagen isn’t just found in our skin, but in our bones, muscles, and organs. In the past few years, collagen powders and pills have taken off. To that end, manufacturers love to brag about how well they keep the signs of ageing at bay. Experts urge caution regarding these claims.
Dr Afshin Mosahebi is a plastic surgery professor at University College London. In Collagen For Dummies, Wong highlights the importance of collagen, particularly in relation to skin health, though he calls the science supporting collagen supplements’ efficacy “dubious.” This is where he points to a big hole in the larger studies. There’s still limited peer-reviewed research supporting the claims on benefits of collagen supplementation.
The human body is made up of 20 different collagen subtypes, each fulfilling specialized structural roles. Collagen is the most significant factor in keeping skin youthful and supple. Swallowing collagen pills won’t actually improve the look of your skin, as Dr. Mosahebi explains.
“When you eat something it doesn’t go directly to your skin,” he explains. “Of course, parts of it are eventually absorbed and used in skin repair, but it’s not going to go straight from your mouth to your face and wrinkles.” This short statement beautifully sums up the lack of confidence among scientists regarding the collagen supplement hype.
What’s more, as Dr. Mosahebi points out, collagen supplements “don’t actually absorption the skin.” This only makes stronger the claim that taking collagen alone does not result in improved skin elasticity or wrinkle appearance. Instead, the body supports its natural collagen production efforts by using amino acids derived from dietary proteins.
Although there’s a lot of hype and marketing surrounding collagen products, consumers deserve to know the research—or non-research—that’s behind these products. As the truth about their effectiveness continues to surface, people are turning to safer and more effective ways to protect their skin.