“Collagen peptides do wonders for the skin.”

It’s a standard claim you see repeated, ad nauseam, on blogs and product descriptions of companies selling collagen peptides. But where’s the proof? Like, actual human clinical trials instead of customer testimonials and before-and-after collagen transformations*?

*Of course, we’re not saying that anecdotal evidence is 100% unreliable — it’s just that, on the evidence hierarchy, it’s definitely ranked lower than clinical trials.

At The Collagen Co, we’re all about doing things differently. In a good way. That’s why we’ve curated a comprehensive list of clinical trials showcasing the efficacy of collagen peptides for skin health. And don’t worry; we’ve broken it into easy-to-understand terms (i.e., no confusing jargon!)

Collagen peptides for ageing skin

Some crucial background information on collagen:

• Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the human body that helps form your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

• Collagen is what gives your skin that plump, youthful look.

• Collagen levels fall with age, starting in your 20s, due to a combination of intrinsic aging and environmental factors, such as UV exposure and heavy alcohol consumption. The result: fine lines, wrinkles, and sagginess.

So, hydrolysed collagen peptides are purportedly able to reverse skin aging signs by:

• Increasing the number and activity of collagen-producing fibroblasts in the skin (translation: promote your body’s natural collagen production)

• Acting as a potent antioxidant that counters free radical damage, which accelerates natural collagen loss

… But do they? The following clinical trials studying collagen peptides’ effect on ageing skin say, “Yes”.

Collagen peptides for skin with atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic disease that causes inflammation, redness, and skin irritation.

It’s characterized by an itching, oozing rash that can cover a large percentage of the skin, and the constant itch can be extremely unbearable.

While scientists still don’t know exactly what causes atopic dermatitis, they know that changes in the skin's protective layer (e.g., gene mutations, problems with the immune system, and exposure to certain things in the environment) can cause it to lose moisture.

This can cause the skin to become dry, driving up inflammation, which may directly trigger itch sensations that cause scratching — leading to a never-ending cycle of inflammation and itch.

Because of collagen peptides’ hydrating and anti-inflammatory effects, many think its supplementation could benefit atopic dermatitis. But what does the research say? Let’s take a look.

“Wait,” you might be wondering, “None of those studies link collagen peptides and atopic dermatitis directly?” And you’re right.

But despite this lack of direct evidence, daily collagen peptide supplementation remains a promising adjuvant supportive option for those with atopic dermatitis. That’s because it fortifies the skin barrier and prevents excessive transepidermal water loss, the key contributor to inflammation.

How else can you care for your skin if you have eczema? Here are a few tips to check out.

Collagen peptides for cellulite

Cellulite forms when fat cells beneath your skin push up against your skin’s connective tissues (fibrous bands or septa), causing the skin to dimple or pucker.

Can collagen peptides help with cellulite? Yes. They help stimulate increased collagen production in the skin, fortifying your fibrous connective tissue and making it harder for fat cells to successfully “push through” and create dimpling.

In this 2015 study, researchers randomly assigned 105 women with moderate cellulite to 2 groups:

1. 2.5 grams of bioactive collagen peptides
2. 2.5 grams of placebo

At the end of the study, the researchers concluded that “a regular ingestion of [bioactive collagen peptides] over a period of 6 months led to a clear improvement of the skin appearance in women suffering from moderate cellulite.”

How much collagen peptides for skin health?

Most studies showed results with anywhere between 2.5 to 10 grams of collagen peptides daily.

But it’s worth noting that the quality of your collagen peptides will play a bigger role than the quantity. All research used “hydrolysed” and “bioactive” collagen peptides. But how do you know if the ones you’re eyeing are, too?

Answer: molecular size. Your collagen peptides must be just 2-3 kDa in molecular size.

This way, they’ll retain all their bioactivity and, in turn, efficacy.

FYI, every single product on The Collagen Co is formulated with quality and quantity in mind — ensuring at least 5 grams of collagen per serving that’s been hydrolysed until they’re just 2-3 kDa in molecular size.

Check them out for yourself here.