Does cheap collagen powder work against wrinkles?

When Aldi launched a cheap collagen powder, HLN asked Dr Griet Voet and a research physician whether such supplements do anything against wrinkles.

Collagen keeps the skin firm, but its production declines with age, and UV radiation, smoking, sugar and stress speed up its breakdown. A supplement is digested by the body as an ordinary protein, so its effect on the skin is limited and uncertain. Dr Voet sometimes sees a small effect in people with very dry or thin skin, post-menopausal women or those with a lot of sun damage.

A low price does not mean the product is worse; what matters more is that the collagen is hydrolysed. Vegan collagen does not really exist. Anyone allergic to fish or shellfish should be careful. The basics remain sun protection, enough sleep, a healthy diet and consistent skincare.

• Expect at most a small effect from collagen supplements.

• Choose hydrolysed collagen.

• Be careful if you are allergic to fish or shellfish.

• Daily sun protection does more for your skin than a supplement.