Effects of Collagen Supplements on Skin Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#skin-aging #humans #collagen #randomized-controlled-trials-as-topic #dietary-supplements

Effects of Collagen Supplements on Skin Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Myung et al., 2025 | Am J Med | Meta Analysis

Citation

Myung Seung-Kwon, Park Yunseo. Effects of Collagen Supplements on Skin Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Med. 2025-Sep;138(9):1264-1277. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2025.04.034

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Collagen supplements are promoted to help aging skin. However, no meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has examined their effects by funding source and study quality, which may influence outcomes. METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to June 14, 2024. RESULTS: A total of 23 RCTs with 1474 participants were analyzed. In a meta-analysis of all 23 RCTs, collagen supplements significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles. However, in the subgroup meta-analysis by funding source, studies not receiving funding from pharmaceutical companies revealed no effect of collagen supplements for improving skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles, while those receiving funding from pharmaceutical companies did show significant effects. Similarly, high-quality studies revealed no significant effect in all categories, while low-quality studies revealed a significant improvement in elasticity. CONCLUSIONS: There is currently no clinical evidence to support the use of collagen supplements to prevent or treat skin aging.

Key Findings

A total of 23 RCTs with 1474 participants were analyzed. In a meta-analysis of all 23 RCTs, collagen supplements significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles. However, in the subgroup meta-analysis by funding source, studies not receiving funding from pharmaceutical companies revealed no effect of collagen supplements for improving skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles, while those receiving funding from pharmaceutical companies did show significant effects. Similarly, high

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 1474
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Skin Aging
  • Humans
  • Collagen
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Elasticity

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
  • Vertical: collagen-skin

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09