Do collagen supplements actually help your skin-

Have a beauty dilemma? Our expert is here to help. This week, Susan is questioning whether investing in an oral anti-aging regimen is worth it.

Anita Bhagwandas, a beauty expert, shares insights on the trend of adding collagen to everything—from skincare products to morning coffee. Collagen, a protein naturally present in our skin, hair, nails, bones, and muscles, is believed to enhance skin elasticity and volume. With natural aging, sun exposure, and lifestyle choices like smoking and diet impacting our collagen levels, it’s no wonder that collagen supplements, typically derived from animals, have skyrocketed in popularity.

However, there’s still a debate about their effectiveness. Laura Dowling, a pharmacist focused on women’s health, references a 2019 study that found strong evidence supporting the use of oral collagen supplements for skin improvement. In contrast, aesthetic practitioner Dr. Yannis Alexandrides, founder of the 111 Harley St Clinic, argues, “Collagen supplements have not been proven to improve the quality of the skin. More research is necessary to establish effectiveness.”

What do you think? Personally, I’ve been trying collagen for a couple of months and haven’t noticed any significant changes in my skin or hair. Yet, Dowling mentions, “Customers come into the pharmacy to buy collagen products, claiming they’ve seen their skin become more bouncy and less dry.”

I might continue taking them just in case, but is it safe? Dowling reassures, “The main side effect you might encounter is digestive issues, but they are generally well tolerated.” If you’re concerned about the cost, consider increasing your intake through collagen-rich foods like bone broth, fish, and egg whites.

This marks the final beauty advice column from Anita Bhagwandas for The Guardian Saturday.