Safety and Efficacy of a Hydrolyzed Collagen Formulation (HYCOS) for Facial Skin Elasticity and Wrinkles: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial

ABSTRACT Background Oral collagen supplements are widely marketed for improving skin aging parameters, however, high‐quality clinical evidence for multi‐ingredient formulations in Asian populations remains limited. Aims This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a hydrolyzed collagen formulation (HYCOS) on facial skin parameters in healthy Thai volunteers. Methods A 12‐week double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled trial was conducted in 140 Thai participants aged 30–60 with mild‐to‐moderate facial wrinkles. Participants were received either HYCOS collagen (hydrolyzed collagen with Glutathione and Vitamin E) or a placebo drink. Skin hydration, elasticity, and crow's feet wrinkle roughness were measured using Corneometer, Cutometer, and 3D skin imaging (PRIMOS CR ), respectively. Dermatologist wrinkle grading and participant self‐assessment were collected. Safety was evaluated through adverse event monitoring and blood/urine biochemical testing. Results A total of 135 participants completed the study (test product, n = 66; placebo, n = 69). After 12 weeks, both groups showed significant increases in skin hydration ( p < 0.001), with no between‐group difference. The test product group demonstrated greater improvements in skin elasticity; gross elasticity (R2), net elasticity (R5), and overall elasticity (R7) compared with placebo ( p < 0.05). Crow's feet wrinkle roughness analysis revealed significantly greater reductions in wrinkle roughness in the test product group than in the placebo group at week 12. No product‐related adverse events were observed, and laboratory values remained within normal ranges. Conclusion Daily supplementation with HYCOS collagen formula for 12 weeks was safe and well tolerated, with significant improvements in skin elasticity and wrinkle roughness. Increases in skin hydration were observed in both groups, suggesting that this effect may be influenced by hydration‐related or behavioural factors rather than the supplement alone. Overall, HYCOS supplementation may provide beneficial effects on skin aging parameters in healthy adults. Trial Registration Thai Clinical Trials Registry: TCTR20250619006