Immune-Modulatory Effects of Bioactive Collagen Peptides Improve Skin Health in Middle-Aged Women

Collagen peptides are widely used to support skin health, but the immunological mechanisms mediating such effects remain unclear. So, this study investigated the effects of bioactive collagen peptide (BCP) supplementation on facial wrinkles, skin biophysical properties, and systemic levels of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and Klotho in sedentary middle-aged women.

This randomized controlled trial included 119 healthy, sedentary women, aged 35-55 years who were randomly assigned to control, Col 2.5 g, or Col 10 g groups. Daily oral supplementation for 12 weeks consisted of either 2.5 g/day or 10 g/day of BCP (Peptpure^®), or participants were allocated to a non-supplemented control group.

Supplementation with 10 g/day of BCP significantly reduced the number (p < 0.0002) and length (p < 0.0424) of wrinkles. Both collagen groups improved skin elasticity (p < 0.0321 for 2.5 g; p < 0.0065 for 10 g) and hydration (p < 0.0471 for 2.5 g; p < 0.0037 for 10 g). Plasma TGF-β levels were significantly elevated in the 2.5 g group (p < 0.0026) and 10 g group (p < 0.0001) compared with controls, as well as Klotho levels for both collagen groups (p < 0.0016 and p < 0.0001, respectively).

A 12-week course of Peptpure^® BCP supplementation improved facial skin health, underlined by increased systemic levels of TGF-β and Klotho, suggesting activation of regenerative and antiaging pathways.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06971029.