Do Collagen Supplements Even Work? A Holistic Plastic Surgeon Weighs In

Collagen supplementation is a burgeoning area of research, which means it comes with a truckload of clashing opinions. Some say collagen is simply not worth the hype; others swear it's the only thing that helped their skin appear smooth and plump.* Both camps remain loyal to their position, but Anthony Youn, M.D., is here to put the debate to bed. 

"Traditional doctors will tell you that when you ingest collagen, your stomach acids will break it down, and it doesn't do anything. People say that many, many times and comment on some of my videos," Youn says regarding his popular TikTok page. "But there are studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals that do show that people who do take collagen supplements have an increase in the collagen content of their skin. And this is a direct correlation of ingesting collagen supplements."* 

Hydrolyzed collagen peptides, in particular, have been shown to help promote the body's natural production of collagen1 and other molecules that make up the skin, like elastin and fibrillin.* That hydrolyzed distinction is important since research shows that hydrolyzed collagen peptides are absorbed more easily2 by your bloodstream and body than normal-sized collagen molecules.*

"There are also studies that do show that people who take collagen supplements do appear to have skin that is more hydrated, has less wrinkles, and looks more youthful,"* notes Youn. Again, we have research to back up the claim: In 2019, the J Drugs Dermatol published a review of oral collagen's effects on the skin, showing that collagen peptides3 will support skin elasticity and hydration levels and promote youthful texture4.*

The science-backed benefits of collagen of course assume you choose a collagen supplement with a high-quality formula and a clinically backed dose. Not all collagen supplements are created equal, and a less-than-stellar formula can absolutely affect the efficacy. That said, make sure you do find a supplement that features hydrolyzed collagen peptides since those are broken down first and are easier for our bodies to absorb. 

As for the dose, well, that's where the conversation becomes a bit nuanced. There is no Recommended Daily Allowance (or RDA) for collagen. RDAs are for essential macro- and micronutrients, so there is one for protein—and ingesting collagen can help you reach your intake needs. In fact, a 2019 study found that as much as 36% of daily protein could come from collagen peptides7 while simultaneously achieving essential amino acid requirements. 

But back to how much collagen you should be taking to arrive at the desired results: The research conveys different breakdowns based on the health outcome you're hoping to achieve. For example, studies show that a range of 2.5 to 10 grams per day can be beneficial for skin support8 and 15 to 20 grams per day can help muscle mass9, muscle strength10, and soreness after exercise11.* Generally, we recommend looking for a supplement that delivers 10 to 20 grams per serving, especially if you want to cover all your bases.