Effects of collagen-based supplements on skin's hydration and elasticity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #skin-aging #collagen #elasticity #dietary-supplements

Effects of collagen-based supplements on skin's hydration and elasticity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Danessa et al., 2025 | Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol | Meta Analysis

Citation

Danessa Gabriela, Notario Dion, Regina Regina. Effects of collagen-based supplements on skin's hydration and elasticity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2025;91(6):730-740. doi:10.25259/IJDVL_1165_2023

Abstract

Background Ageing is a degenerative process that affects the entire body. Skin ageing is characterised by a decrease in the levels of collagen, elastin fibre, and hyaluronic acid (HA), resulting in a loss of skin elasticity and hydration. Prior studies suggest that oral collagen supplements can help increase collagen, elastin, and HA levels, ultimately improving skin health. Objective To assess the impact of collagen-based supplements on the signs of skin ageing and determine the effective dosage. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis utilized PubMed, Clinical Key, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library databases to identify studies published from 2010 to 2021. It includes ten randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 646 participants. Results The findings indicate that collagen supplements were statistically effective in increasing skin hydration (SMD 1.25 (CI: 0.77-1.74)) and elasticity (SMD 0.61 (CI: 0.21-1.02)). The most commonly administered dose was 4 g/day, with a median dose of 3.5 g/ day. Limitations Most of the studies could not control for weather-related factors. The findings are more applicable to females. Moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 55.5-56.5%) may limit generalisability. The risk of bias was generally unclear, and publication bias could not be assessed due to the small number of studies. Conclusion Oral administration of collagen supplement in a dose ranging from 1-10 g/day was statistically effective in increasing the skin hydration and elasticity.

Key Findings

Conclusion Oral administration of collagen supplement in a dose ranging from 1-10 g/day was statistically effective in increasing the skin hydration and elasticity.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 646
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

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

Evidence Classification

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

Provenance

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