Is Your Collagen Really Working?

The Trend: Maybe you’ve stirred a packet of powdered collagen into your water or morning coffee and wondered if it’s really doing anything for your skin or joints. Well, you’re not the only one. The global market is now valued at over $6 billion, driven by the notion that consuming collagen can support healthy aging. 

What People Are Saying: A recent meta-analysis in the American Journal of Medicine is prompting a closer look at collagen’s many beauty claims. Researchers reviewed 23 randomized controlled trials with nearly 1,500 participants and found that studies not funded by supplement companies reported little to no cosmetic benefit. This gap raises concerns about how funding and study quality can shape results. It also reflects a bigger challenge in the supplement world, where trendy formats like gummies and ready-to-drink collagens are taking off faster than the research can keep up.

What to Know: Collagen isn’t harmful, but it’s probably not a magic bullet, either. Go ahead and add it to your routine if you’d like, but think of it as an extra source of protein. For long-term benefits, your best bet is still cultivating tried-and-true good habits, such as maintaining a regular exercise routine and a balanced diet.