What are the actual benefits of taking collagen supplements?

Health & Fitness
27 Feb 2026 • 9:07 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A new umbrella review of over 100 clinical trials indicates that long-term use of collagen supplements is linked to improved skin elasticity and hydration.
  • Experts caution against viewing collagen as an “anti-wrinkle quick fix,” suggesting it is best positioned for “holistic” skin maintenance and as a legitimate additional treatment for ageing, particularly in post-menopausal women or those with UV-damaged skin.
  • The review also found that collagen supplements were consistently associated with a significant reduction in arthritis symptoms, such as stiff and painful joints.
  • Collagen intake was linked to improvements in muscle health, although there was no evidence to suggest it helps alleviate soreness after exercise.
  • Researchers acknowledge limitations in the current evidence and call for further high-quality studies to explore optimal dosage, duration, different collagen sources and their long-term health outcomes.

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