Maintaining healthy skin is not only important for aesthetic purposes but also for protecting the body from external factors, regulating temperature, and performing other vital functions. Collagen protein plays a significant role in skin structure, constituting 75% of the skin's dry weight. Studies suggest that collagen supplements may enhance skin physiology and appearance by potentially increasing hydration, elasticity, firmness, reducing wrinkles, and promoting skin rejuvenation.
Collagen loss begins at an early age of 18 to 29 years and accelerates as we age. The body can lose up to 1% of collagen per year after 40 years, and at 80 years, collagen production may decrease by 75% compared to young adults. The loss of collagen can be attributed to factors such as free radicals, nutrient deficiencies, smoking, alcoholism, and disease, and is associated with the appearance of aged skin, such as lines and wrinkles.
While topical moisturizers are commonly used in basic skincare, the use of dietary collagen supplements to nourish and moisturize the skin from the inside is gaining interest. Many people, especially the elderly, have inadequate protein in their diet, and even those with high protein intake do not consume the richest sources of collagen, such as animal skins, bone broth, and tendons.
Research shows that collagen peptide supplements can support normal body collagen turnover and renewal, leading to improved skin hydration, wrinkling, and elasticity. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial on women aged 40 to 60 years found that those who received 1,000 mg per day of collagen peptide supplements for 12 weeks had significantly improved skin hydration, wrinkling, and elasticity compared to a placebo. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have also confirmed the short- and long-term benefits of oral collagen supplements for wound healing and skin aging.
Adding collagen peptide supplements to foods or beverages can provide an adequate intake of the unique amino acid composition of collagen, which can support skin health by promoting moisturizing capacity, supporting the body's natural generation of hyaluronic acid, and supporting skin barrier function. In conclusion, collagen supplements may play a beneficial role in promoting healthy skin by improving hydration, elasticity, and overall skin health.
