Do collagen supplements actually work? Here’s what a dermatologist says

From powders to pills, collagen supplements promise youthful skin and strong hair – but do they actually work?

“A lot of the collagen supplements are expensive, they have additives in them and they’re not regulated. With this in mind, I typically tell patients to save their money on those supplements – you’re better off protecting what you do have,” explained Shilpi Khetarpal, MD, a Cleveland Clinic dermatologist.

Dr. Khetarpal said collagen is a protein our bodies naturally produce to keep our skin firm and strong.

But starting in our mid-20s, we make less and less of it every year.

Since there’s limited data on the effectiveness of collagen supplements, Dr. Khetarpal recommends using proven ingredients like vitamin C and retinoids to stimulate collagen production.

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