With fads in no short supply and everything being pitched as the next cure for whatever your woe, it’s increasingly difficult to be an educated and discerning consumer, especially when it comes to vitamins and supplements. Only recently did we learn that taking more than the recommended daily value of some vitamins can actually increase your risk for health issues. It’s a confusing aisle to shop for everyone, so when we saw some of the claims associated with collagen supplements, we decided to check the science. 

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies and makes up a lot of our connective tissues, including skin. It’s often described as the glue that holds everything together, so it’s pretty important. As you get older, you produce collagen that’s less elastic which leads to the age-related skin changes we all despise. While no supplement can totally reverse or prevent your skin from aging, taking collagen can actually make your skin better and help your joints too.

There has been a decent amount of peer-reviewed studies on the effects of collagen, but it must be stressed that there haven’t been enough studies to confirm the specifics. For instance, there are two types of collagen supplements: collagen peptides and collagen hydrolysate. The peptides have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity in several trials, and the hydrolysate has been shown to improve joint health in trials. Since it’s not clear whether both help your skin, play it safe and go for the peptides. They’re going to be in a liquid or powder form, whereas the hydrolysate comes in a pill. Brands that use collagen hydrolysate will claim to improve your skin in the same way those using the peptides do, so always check the ingredients before you buy. 

If you’re looking to improve your skin from the inside out, consider adding a collagen peptide supplement to your routine. There are strong indications that it helps to improve elasticity and hydration, and you may find that your joints and muscles feels better as well!