Evidence supporting the use of: Gelatin
For the health condition: Wrinkles

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gelatin is used to support or treat wrinkles primarily due to its content of collagen, a protein that provides structure to the skin. As people age, natural collagen production decreases, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity. The rationale behind gelatin supplementation is that consuming hydrolyzed collagen (which gelatin contains) may provide the body with amino acids necessary to support skin health and potentially reduce wrinkle formation.

There is some scientific evidence supporting this use, but it is moderate and not yet definitive. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that oral intake of collagen peptides (closely related to gelatin) can improve skin elasticity, hydration, and the appearance of wrinkles. For example, several studies published between 2014 and 2020 have demonstrated that collagen supplementation (2.5 to 10 grams per day for 4-12 weeks) can reduce wrinkle depth and improve skin moisture and elasticity compared to placebo. However, these studies typically use hydrolyzed collagen, which is more efficiently absorbed than standard gelatin.

Traditional use of gelatin for skin health also exists, especially in East Asian cultures, where gelatinous broths are consumed for their supposed beauty benefits. Still, the scientific evidence is not robust, and results can vary greatly depending on the form, dose, and duration of supplementation. Overall, while there is a scientific basis for the use of gelatin-derived collagen in supporting skin health and potentially reducing wrinkles, the effect size is modest and more research is needed.

More about gelatin
More about Wrinkles