If you're looking for an instant improvement for wrinkles, collagen supplements likely aren't the best option, according to a new study.
In the study, a manuscript published online in January in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, researchers found that collagen’s effects on elasticity and hydration accumulate gradually, requiring ongoing intake. Collagen should not be viewed as an "anti-wrinkle 'quick fix,' but as a foundational dermal support for individuals seeking holistic skin maintenance," the authors write.
The study reviewed more than 100 randomized control trials with a total of nearly 8,000 patients.
More: What is collagen? And what you should know about how to increase it.
Collagen, a type of protein, is produced naturally in the body and is also available in many food sources. But recently, a range of oral and topical wellness products containing collagen have become popular.
