Oral Collagen Peptide Supplementation and Skin Health: Evidence from Human Studies and Implications for Connective Tissue Function

Collagen is the main structural protein of connective tissues and plays an important role in maintaining skin structure, elasticity, and hydration. In recent years, oral collagen peptide supplementation has attracted considerable scientific interest as a nutritional strategy aimed at supporting skin health and connective tissue metabolism. The aim of this review was to summarize current evidence from human clinical studies investigating the effects of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin-related outcomes and to discuss its potential implications for connective tissue in the context of physical activity. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database focusing on human studies evaluating oral collagen supplementation and its effects on skin physiology. Studies assessing skin hydration, elasticity, wrinkle depth, and dermal matrix structure were included in the analysis. The reviewed clinical trials generally report improvements in skin hydration and elasticity following several weeks of collagen peptide supplementation. Some studies also indicate reductions in wrinkle depth and improvements in dermal structure. In addition, evidence suggests that collagen supplementation combined with physical activity may support connective tissue adaptation. Overall, oral collagen peptide supplementation may represent a promising nutritional strategy supporting skin health and potentially connective tissue function.