Why everyone is talking about collagen right now

If you’ve spent any time on social media recently, you’ve probably noticed that collagen seems to be everywhere. From beauty influencers and wellness experts to women navigating menopause, collagen has become one of the most talked-about supplements on the market and some bold claims have been made about its benefits.

Lots of you have asked me whether you should be taking a collagen supplement, so here’s a little bit about what collagen actually is, and whether or not it might be right for you.

The Growing Interest in Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and plays an important role in supporting skin, hair, nails, joints, muscles, and connective tissues. As we age, our natural collagen production gradually declines, which is why many people begin noticing changes such as reduced skin elasticity, fine lines, brittle nails, and increased joint stiffness.

Recent research has suggested that collagen supplementation may help support skin hydration and elasticity, while some studies have also explored potential benefits for joints and mobility when taken consistently over time. As a result, collagen has evolved from a niche beauty product into a mainstream supplement.

According to The Independent, a new review encompassing over 100 clinical trials indicated that collagen supplement could significantly reduce arthritis symptoms. It was also associated with improvements in muscle health.

The reason everyone is talking about collagen isn’t simply because it’s trending. It’s because more people are looking for practical ways to support healthy ageing, skin health, their joints, and overall wellbeing.

Why Consumers Are Becoming More Selective About Collagen

There are so many collagen powders on the market that people are now paying attention to factors such as the source of the collagen, the amount of collagen per serving and additional ingredients, as well as manufacturing quality and ingredient transparency. So we need more high-quality clinical trials, including research examining long term health outcomes, optimal dosing and differences between collagen sources.

The Hidden Impact of Stress and Grief on Ageing

Stress and grief are my specialist areas. Unfortunately, chronic stress and grief can contribute to inflammation and skin ageing. Emotional stress places significant demands on the body, often leading to elevated levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Over time, chronic stress can contribute to increased inflammation throughout the body and may accelerate visible signs of ageing, including dull skin, loss of elasticity, and the appearance of fine lines.

While collagen is not a treatment for stress or grief, ensuring your body has access to the nutrients needed to support healthy skin, connective tissues, and recovery can be an important part of a wider self-care routine. Combined with adequate sleep, hydration, movement, and emotional support, collagen supplementation may help support the body during periods when physical and emotional stress are taking their toll.

What Results Can You Realistically Expect?

Collagen is not an overnight solution, and most studies examining collagen supplementation look at periods of 8 to 12 weeks or longer. What makes collagen appealing is that it supports multiple areas of health simultaneously, from skin and hair to joints and connective tissue, all of which we become more concerned about as we age. However, the source of collagen and the  quality of individual products are important considerations.

(If you have any underlying health conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication, you may like to check with your GP before taking any collagen supplement)