Oral Collagen Oligopeptides as a Modulator of Skin Health: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Clinical and Molecular Effects

Collagen peptides (CPs) have been recognized for their potential to enhance skin health, particularly by improving hydration, firmness, and elasticity. However, the molecular mechanisms driving these benefits remain not fully understood, especially regarding their influence on essential extracellular matrix (ECM) components and enzymes that regulate collagen turnover. This study investigated both the clinical efficacy and the underlying preclinical molecular effects of oral collagen oligopeptides (Col-OP) supplementation, aiming to clarify how these peptides contribute to skin improvements. In clinical trials, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study with 85 women aged 45-60 years examined the effects of daily 2.5 g Col-OP supplementation over 84 days, measuring skin hydration (Corneometer®), firmness, and elasticity (Cutometer®). In addition to clinical studies, preclinical <i>in vitro</i> experiments were conducted on human dermal fibroblast cultures to elucidate the molecular effects of Col-OP. Fibroblasts were treated with noncytotoxic concentrations of Col-OP (10.0, 3.16, and 1.0 mg/mL) for 96 h, assessing the synthesis of type I collagen, matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP-1), decorin, versican, biglycan, and hyaluronic acid (HA) through gene expression and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results showed that Col-OP treatment significantly enhanced gene expression of type I procollagen, decorin, and biglycan while decreasing versican levels (<i>P</i> < .001). It also promoted type I collagen synthesis and TIMP-1 levels, modulating MMP-1 and HA production. Clinically, Col-OP significantly enhanced skin firmness and elasticity compared with placebo (<i>P</i> < .05), while improvements in skin hydration did not achieve statistical significance. Based on the current data, it can be concluded that oral supplementation with Col-OP effectively enhances skin health by promoting key ECM components and modulating collagen turnover, offering a promising approach for improving skin health.