The Sustained Effects of Bioactive Collagen Peptides on Skin Health: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Nutraceuticals
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Collagen is vital for skin structure, but oral bioavailability is poor.
• Bioactive collagen peptides (BCP) offer improved absorption and functionality.
• Limited data exists on sustained BCP effects and molecular weight impact on skin.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess long-term effects of BCP on skin hydration, elasticity, and dermal structure.
• Investigate the link between BCP molecular properties and skin outcomes.

Main Methods:

• 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 77 healthy women.
• Participants received 5000 mg/day BCP or placebo.
• Skin hydration, TEWL, elasticity, dermal/epidermal thickness, and density measured non-invasively.

Main Results:

• BCP significantly improved dermal density, hydration, and TEWL versus placebo (p<0.05).
• Improvements were sustained post-washout.
• Increased dermal thickness observed with BCP; no epidermal changes.

Conclusions:

• 12 weeks of BCP supplementation with a 4-week washout yielded lasting skin improvements.
• Effects linked to high hydroxyproline content and low molecular weight of BCP.
• BCP supports anti-aging skincare strategies.