Published in the scientific journal Cosmetics, the randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects on different skin parameters of daily supplementation with 2.5 grams of COLLinstant LMW manufactured by Barcelona-based Nutraresearch S.L.
“Low-molecular-weight collagen peptides, such as those found in COLLinstant LMW, are characterized by their unique composition of glycine- and proline-rich bioactive peptides, which have been shown to stimulate the synthesis of new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin,” the team of Spanish researchers wrote.
Unlike standard-molecular-weight collagen, which is often degraded in the gastrointestinal tract, low-molecular-weight peptides are small enough to cross the intestinal barrier intact. This enhances their bioavailability and allows for more efficient absorption and distribution to tissues, including the skin.
The research was funded by Nutraresearch and Viscofan BioEngineering, the German company that owns the IP rights to COLLinstant LMW.
Clinical trial overview
The study involved 80 healthy women aged 30 years and older who were divided into two groups: one receiving the LMW supplement and the other a placebo.
The researchers assessed the impact of COLLinstant LMW on various skin parameters, including wrinkle reduction, hydration and elasticity, using validated biometric methods such as Visioface 1000D, cutometry and corneometry.
“After six weeks of supplementation, participants who received COLLinstant LMW showed a 46% reduction in wrinkle volume, a 44% reduction in wrinkle area and a 9% decrease in wrinkle depth,” they reported.
Additionally, skin hydration increased by 34% compared to the placebo group.
Skin hydration and wrinkle reduction
The study found that participants who received the collagen supplement experienced significant improvements in both hydration and wrinkle reduction. The biometric data demonstrated a measurable decrease in several key wrinkle parameters, including volume and depth.
The researchers emphasized that these improvements were not observed in the placebo group. The findings suggested that low-molecular-weight collagen peptides could be an effective intervention to combat signs of aging, particularly in reducing wrinkles and enhancing skin moisture.
Limited impact on skin elasticity
While findings demonstrated significant improvements in wrinkle reduction and hydration, the effect on skin elasticity was less pronounced.
“We observed a positive trend in skin elasticity, but the differences did not reach statistical significance compared to the placebo group,” the researchers noted.
Despite the modest results in elasticity, the subjective feedback from participants aligned with the objective findings. Many participants reported visible improvements in skin smoothness and overall radiance after six weeks of supplementation.
A growing trend in the nutraceutical market
Collagen-based nutraceuticals have gained popularity as a non-invasive alternative to topical creams and injectable fillers for improving skin health.
A key structural protein, collagen plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and resilience of the skin. However, collagen production naturally declines with age due to reduced fibroblast activity and environmental factors such as UV exposure, pollution and stress.
This decline contributes to the formation of wrinkles, loss of skin firmness and diminished hydration.
“Collagen supplementation has emerged as a promising approach to support skin health and counteract aging effects, particularly in reducing wrinkles and improving hydration,” the researchers wrote, adding that low-molecular-weight collagen peptides offer several advantages, including quicker absorption, higher bioavailability and enhanced stability.
The study also confirmed that COLLinstant LMW was well-tolerated, with no adverse effects reported during the trial, further supporting its potential as a safe and effective anti-aging solution.
Longer treatment duration may be necessary for elasticity improvements
While the study showed significant benefits within six weeks, the researchers noted that improvements in skin elasticity may require a longer treatment duration.
“Previous studies have shown that noticeable benefits in elasticity often require more than eight weeks of supplementation,” they wrote.
In addition to this finding, the researchers highlighted that different sources of collagen—such as fish, porcine, chicken and bovine—may exhibit varying effects on the skin. They highlighted that COLLinstant LMW, derived from bovine collagen, demonstrated a substantial similarity to human collagen, which likely contributed to its efficacy in the trial.
With its proven efficacy in reducing wrinkles and improving skin hydration, COLLinstant LMW presents a promising option for manufacturers and suppliers looking to meet the rising consumer demand for effective, non-invasive skin care interventions.
“Regular supplementation may contribute to achieving smoother and more radiant skin,” the researchers concluded.
Source: Cosmetics
2024, 11, 137. doi: 10.3390/cosmetics11040137
" Anti-Aging Effects of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptide Supplementation on Facial Wrinkles and Skin Hydration: Outcomes from a Six-Week Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial"
Authors: Carrillo-Norte, J.A., et al.
