Story perspectives

Collagen Boosts Skin and Joint Health, Lacks Athletic Gains

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Anglia Ruskin University researchers reviewed 16 systematic reviews and 113 trials with nearly 8,000 participants to assess collagen supplements.
They found that collagen improves skin elasticity and alleviates osteoarthritis pain.
They found no athletic performance gains or wrinkle reduction, and experts caution against marketing collagen as a quick aging fix.
Evidence for other health claims remains inconclusive, and researchers call for more high-quality studies to determine dosages and collagen sources.

1 of 1

Story summary

Anglia Ruskin University researchers reviewed 16 systematic reviews and 113 trials with nearly 8,000 participants to assess collagen supplements.
They found that collagen improves skin elasticity and alleviates osteoarthritis pain.
They found no athletic performance gains or wrinkle reduction, and experts caution against marketing collagen as a quick aging fix.
Evidence for other health claims remains inconclusive, and researchers call for more high-quality studies to determine dosages and collagen sources.