Collagen, a vital protein for skin, bones, and muscle health, has become a hot topic thanks to social media hype. However, experts at Boots caution that benefiting from collagen supplements requires patience and an awareness of natural ways to support collagen levels first.
Collagen production naturally decreases as we age, which can affect skin elasticity and joint strength. Vicky Pennington, Nutritionist at Boots, explains, “Collagen is one of the human body’s most abundant proteins, essential for muscle building and cell repair.” Despite the buzz around collagen supplements, she urges people to prioritize natural methods before turning to pills or powders.
“Start by eating a balanced diet rich in nuts, seeds, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish, and grass-fed protein,” Pennington suggests. She highlights marine collagen from wild-caught fish like salmon as being absorbed up to 1.5 times more efficiently than collagen from cow or pig sources, making fish an excellent option for natural collagen support.
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While collagen is widely celebrated for enhancing skin hydration and elasticity, Pennington emphasizes its broader role in maintaining healthy bones, joints, muscle repair, and even gut protection. Importantly, she cautions against expecting overnight changes: “Collagen supplements don’t provide instant results but show benefit when taken consistently over a long period.”
Regarding the best time to start supplementation, Pennington notes, “There’s no perfect age. However, collagen production accelerates its decline after 40, so many people begin taking supplements in their 20s or 30s as a preventive measure.”
Kirstie Thorley-Mitchell, Head of Wellness at Boots, notes that younger generations are leading the collagen trend. “Our recent survey found half of Gen Z and millennials have tried collagen, compared to only 20% of people in their 60s,” she said.
For those keen to enhance their collagen intake, Kirstie points out the variety of supplement formats including tablets, powders, capsules, gummies, and drinks, ensuring there’s an option to suit any lifestyle. Boots has also expanded wellness training for over 500 Health & Wellness Specialists across 140 stores, helping customers navigate the options.
Top collagen picks recommended by Kirstie include Free Soul Collagen Gummies (£14.99), Absolute Collagen’s Liquid Marine Collagen sachets (£30), and Boots Marine Collagen tablets (£33).
Despite the enthusiasm, some medical professionals advise caution. Professor Faisal Ali, consultant dermatologist at Mid Cheshire NHS Trust, told the BBC in 2025, “The best thing you can do for your skin is use a decent sunblock. Sun exposure has the biggest impact on skin aging. Sun cream, a healthy diet, and quitting smoking will have a far greater effect than collagen supplements.”
Ultimately, experts agree that while collagen supplements may support overall wellness, adopting a holistic approach—with good nutrition, sun protection, and lifestyle choices—remains crucial for long-term skin and health benefits.