Collagen Supplements: The Unfulfilled Anti-Aging Promise, Experts Advise
Dermatologists caution consumers that collagen supplements may not fulfill their anti-aging promises, despite their prevalence in beauty aisles worldwide. Dr. Farah Moustafa, an assistant professor at Tufts University School of Medicine, asserts that oral collagen supplements are not currently recommended for treating skin aging.
A recent meta-analysis of 23 randomized controlled trials revealed a concerning trend. Studies supporting collagen supplements were often of low quality and funded by pharmaceutical companies. High-quality studies, with independent funding sources, found no significant benefit from collagen supplementation. Furthermore, most oral collagen supplements lack third-party verification and clear ingredient information. Marine-sourced products may even be contaminated with heavy metals like mercury.
Instead of relying on supplements, dermatologists recommend the following measures to support the body’s natural collagen production:
- Maintaining a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamin C
- Using sunscreen to protect against UV damage
- Applying topical retinol
- Avoiding smoking
These recommendations are highlighted in the Tufts Health & Nutrition Letter, emphasizing that protecting your skin and maintaining a healthy diet does far more for collagen than any supplement can.
Source: https://medicaldialogues.in/mdtv/medical-news-today/medical-bulletin-2february2026-163813