Big effect
Collagen supplements slashed wrinkle severity with a huge effect size in a meta-analysis — but the same review found it also improved hydration, barrier function, and pigmentation, so the benefit isn't limited to wrinkles alone.
This is the first meta-analysis to quantify collagen's effect on wrinkles with a large, statistically robust effect, but because it is among the first indexed studies for this specific pairing, the finding needs replication before taking it as settled.
A systematic review of 61 human studies found that collagen supplements measurably reduced wrinkle severity, with a strong statistical effect. The same analysis also linked collagen to improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, barrier function, and even pigmentation, suggesting broad anti-aging benefits — though the novelty of this meta-analysis means more research is needed to confirm how well these results hold across different populations and supplement forms.
Where this fits in the evidence
This is among the first studies we've indexed on Collagen for Reduced Wrinkle Severity — treat it as an early signal until more research accumulates.
The study
Dietary interventions in skin ageing: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
- Meta-Analysis
- 2025-10-31
- Journal of physiological anthropology
This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.