Knowledge, perception, and attitude toward using collagen among people in the western region of Saudi Arabia: A...

Collagens are protein particles consisting of amino acids that deliver structural support to connective tissues. Collagen's stiffness, rigidity, and resistance to stretching makes it an ideal matrix for skin, tendons, bones, and ligaments. Collagen deficiency disrupts tissue strength and function, increasing pain, mobility limitations, and disability risk. Many studies have shown that collagen supplements are safe cosmetics that can elevate collagen-derived peptides in the blood, improving skin elasticity, hair growth, wound healing, and potentially supporting weight management. However, no cross-sectional study has assessed public knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward collagen use in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to evaluate these factors among adults in the western region of Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional, web-based online survey of people living in the western region of Saudi Arabia was conducted. Data were collected between January to March 2025. As there were no immediate data regarding the total number of people using collagen in Saudi Arabia, no sampling frame was produced. Instead, a convenience sampling model was used to select the participants. All guidelines outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki were followed by the research group. A total of 368 respondents were included most of the participants were 18 to 29 years old (61.7%); 53% were female; 47% were male; 56.8% were single; 84.5% had a university-level education or higher; most were unemployed or retired (54.9%), and most earned <5000 Saudi riyals in monthly income (63%). Only 32.6% of participants reported prior collagen use, and knowledge was generally poor, particularly among younger adults and males. Collagen users demonstrated significantly higher knowledge compared to nonusers (65.8% vs 28.2%, P < .001). Awareness of side effects was low, with 78% of participants unaware of minor adverse effects. Public knowledge of collagen use in the western region of Saudi Arabia is limited, which may lead to misuse or unrealistic expectations. These findings underscore the need for educational interventions to promote safe and informed use of collagen products.