Expert Answer

Does collagen actually help your skin?

Collagen skin-health collagen beauty
This content is based on expert analysis of publicly available videos, not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement.

Quick Answer

4 of 5 experts support collagen for skin, but Attia is skeptical — calling it a 'low-quality protein.' Huberman recommends 15g daily for skin elasticity. Johnson takes collagen peptides daily. All agree: it's not for muscle building.

3.5/5

Strong Consensus

on Collagen overall

What Researchers Say

Andrew Huberman
Andrew Huberman Agrees

Recommends 15g daily for skin elasticity. 5-30g/day for skin thinning. Pair with vitamin C.

Bryan Johnson
Bryan Johnson Strongly Agrees

Takes collagen peptides daily in morning drink and breakfast. HBOT increased his collagen fiber density.

Peter Attia
Peter Attia Nuanced

Calls collagen 'low-quality protein' that does not outperform whey for connective tissue synthesis.

Rhonda Patrick
Rhonda Patrick Agrees

Uses hydrolyzed collagen powder in her smoothie. Highlights glycine and proline for wound healing.

Detailed Answer

Collagen for skin has moderate evidence. Huberman recommends approximately 15g daily (5-30g range for skin thinning), always paired with vitamin C for synthesis support. Johnson takes it daily and HBOT increased his collagen fiber density.

Attia is the notable skeptic — his analysis with Dr. Luc van Loon concludes collagen does not outperform dairy protein for connective tissue synthesis. He calls it a "low-quality protein."

The consensus: collagen may help skin (several RCTs show improvements in elasticity), but should never replace whey for muscle building. Always pair with vitamin C.

Related Questions

How long does collagen take to work for skin?

Clinical trials typically show improvements in skin elasticity and hydration within 8-12 weeks of daily supplementation.

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Full Collagen Consensus Report

See what all 5 experts agree and disagree on