Originally posted https://professionalbeauty.co.uk/collagen-supplements-skin-elasticity-hydration-umbrella-review-2026
New umbrella review of 113 trials finds collagen supplements improve skin elasticity and hydration, but are not a “quick fix” for wrinkles
A major new umbrella review has found that collagen supplementation can improve skin elasticity and hydration, while also reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis, but does not significantly affect skin roughness or act as a “quick fix” for wrinkles.
The study, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, analysed evidence from 16 meta-analyses and 113 trials involving almost 8,000 participants worldwide.
Titled Collagen Supplementation for Skin and Musculoskeletal Health: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses on Elasticity, Hydration, and Structural Outcomes, the paper was led by researchers from Anglia Ruskin University.
Collagen supplementation and skin health: elasticity and hydration improved
The review reports that oral collagen supplementation was associated with improvements in skin elasticity and hydration across the analysed studies. However, researchers found that collagen supplements did not significantly improve skin roughness.
The authors conclude that collagen supplementation “may be best positioned not as an anti-wrinkle ‘quick fix’ but as a foundational dermal support for individuals seeking holistic skin maintenance”, adding that it supports an “inside-out model of skin rejuvenation” and acts as “agents of deeper tissue regeneration rather than superficial cosmetic aids”.
Lead investigator Professor Lee Smith, professor of public health at Anglia Ruskin University, said, “This study brings together the strongest evidence to date on collagen supplementation.
“Collagen is not a cure-all, but it does have credible benefits when used consistently over time, particularly for skin and osteoarthritis. Our findings show clear benefits in key areas of healthy ageing, while also dispelling some of the myths surrounding its use.”
He added, “If we define anti-ageing as a product or technique designed to prevent the appearance of getting older, then I believe our findings do support this claim for some parameters.
“For example, an improvement in skin tone and moisture is associated with a more youthful looking appearance.”
The researchers note that bold anti-ageing claims have often been made in relation to collagen supplements and that many existing studies have been funded by the supplement industry. The umbrella review itself did not receive industry funding.
Collagen supplements and osteoarthritis symptoms
Beyond skin ageing and hydration, the review also examined musculoskeletal outcomes.
Across the included trials, collagen supplementation was associated with reductions in osteoarthritis-related symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness.
The authors describe benefits in “key areas of healthy ageing”, particularly in relation to skin parameters and osteoarthritis outcomes.
Experts call for further robust dermatology research
Reacting to the findings, Dr Tamara Griffiths, president of the British Association of Dermatologists and honorary lecturer at the University of Manchester, said:
“This welcomed review consolidates existing evidence, suggesting oral collagen supplementation may benefit skin integrity. However, as indicated in the paper, a number of critical variables which significantly impact skin ageing, including UV exposure, smoking, sleep, environment and hormonal status, are not accounted for with any consistency in the existing literature. This creates difficulty in the systematic interpretation of the available evidence.
“Skin hydration, which the review purports oral collagen may improve, is typically measured in the superficial layers of the skin (stratum corneum), via a mechanism known as trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). It is therefore surprising that skin roughness was not simultaneously improved, as this is reflected by stratum corneum uniformity and hydration. It can also be impacted by the use of topical moisturisers, another variable omitted from consideration.
“Dermal matrix degradation is a hallmark of skin ageing, leading to wrinkles and thinning of the skin, and ultimately skin frailty with easy tearing and poor wound healing. Any measures to postpone these changes would be beneficial, but further data with targeted, robust dermatological studies are required to build on the promise raised by this systematic review.”
Cost, claims and positioning in the collagen supplement market
Commenting on the wider consumer landscape, Shefalee Loth, nutritionist at consumer group Which?, said, “Collagen supplements are often marketed with bold anti-ageing claims, but scientific evidence to support them is limited.
“It's worth remembering that there are currently no approved health claims for collagen supplements on the nutrition and health claims register.
“The cost of taking collagen can mount up quickly. Most supplements cost at least £25 a month for daily use, and studies suggest they need to be taken consistently for the best results.
“Consumers should be cautious about brand claims and weigh up the potential benefits against the cost before committing to long-term use.”
Separately, Bridget Benelam, a nutrition scientist at the British Nutrition Foundation, highlighted the role of diet in collagen production, noting that vitamin C and zinc contribute to normal collagen formation, and that the body synthesises its own collagen from dietary protein.
Collagen, menopause and UV-damaged skin
The review also references potential positioning for specific groups. Researchers note that collagen supplementation may represent a “legitimate” additional anti-ageing treatment for women who have gone through the menopause or for people with UV-damaged skin.
The authors acknowledge that further analysis is needed to clarify optimal dosage, duration of supplementation and the potential influence of body composition on effectiveness.
What this collagen supplement research means for the aesthetics industry
The umbrella review provides one of the most comprehensive reports to date of evidence on collagen supplementation, skin elasticity, hydration and osteoarthritis outcomes.
While the findings point to measurable improvements in certain skin parameters and joint symptoms when collagen supplements are taken consistently over time, the authors and external experts emphasise the need for further robust, targeted dermatological studies to strengthen the evidence base.
For aesthetic professionals, the research adds to the evolving evidence surrounding “inside-out” skin rejuvenation, positioning collagen supplementation within the broader conversation on healthy ageing, dermal support and holistic skin maintenance.
FAQ: Collagen supplements and skin health research
Do collagen supplements improve skin elasticity?
According to a new umbrella review published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, oral collagen supplementation was associated with improved skin elasticity when taken consistently over time across 113 trials involving nearly 8,000 participants.
Do collagen supplements increase skin hydration?
The review found that collagen supplements were associated with improved skin hydration. However, improvements were measured primarily in superficial skin layers and did not translate into significant changes in skin roughness.
Do collagen supplements reduce wrinkles?
Researchers concluded that collagen supplements should not be positioned as a “quick fix” for wrinkles. While improvements in elasticity and hydration were observed, the review did not show significant improvements in skin roughness.
Can collagen supplements help osteoarthritis symptoms?
The umbrella review reported reductions in osteoarthritis-related symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness, among participants taking collagen supplements.
Is more research needed on collagen supplementation?
Yes. Researchers and external experts noted that further targeted, robust dermatological studies are required, particularly to assess dosage, duration, and variables such as UV exposure, smoking, hormonal status and topical skincare use.
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