Does collagen from supplements reach the skin?
The skepticism is understandable — proteins are digested into amino acids, so how do we know collagen isn't just broken down like any other protein? The answer lies in collagen peptides:
Collagen hydrolysate contains short peptide chains (diPeptide Pro-Hyp) that are absorbed intact or as peptides. Radiolabeled studies show that specific collagen peptides accumulate in skin tissue after oral administration and stimulate fibroblasts to produce their own collagen.
Clinical studies — what we really know
Proksch et al. (2014): 2.5g collagen peptides daily for 8 weeks → +15% skin density vs placebo, wrinkle reduction.
Barati et al. (2020, meta-analysis): 11 RCTs → collagen supplementation improves elasticity, hydration and skin density.
Dose and synergies
Dose: 5–10g collagen peptides daily (hydrolysate) Time: minimum 8–12 weeks before evaluating results Synergies: Vitamin C (essential for collagen synthesis) + Zinc + Silicon
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