Ask the Expert: Are the TikTok-Popular Collagen Drinks Worth It?

Collagen drinks are this generation’s “it” supplement, having gone viral following rave reviews from beauty creators on Instagram and TikTok. The beauty tonic promises more than plump, hydrated, and youthful-looking skin – wellness girlies who’ve tried it also believe it can give you stronger nails and shinier hair.

But as with any new beauty trend, it has its fair share of detractors. Is it all just buzz or should you give it a try? All Things Beauty gets insights from board-certified dermatologist and beauty creator, Dr. Nikki Paderna, to check the facts behind the trend.

Collagen drinks are dietary supplements that contain collagen peptides, or broken-down forms of collagen that are easier for the body to absorb. These anti-aging supplements are usually flavored and marketed as beauty and wellness-boosting drinks, highlighting collagen’s role in keeping your skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones strong.

“When you take it orally, it gets broken down into smaller peptides, then into amino acids,” explains Dr. Nikki. “After, it gets absorbed and distributed to where it’s needed the most in the body – so it can go to the skin, nails, or muscles, for example."

“As of the present, some studies say taking collagen supplements benefits the skin,” Dr. Nikki points out. “These studies show that peptides stimulate collagen production, promote tissue repair, and reduce fine lines.”

She contends: “More research, especially large-scale studies, is still needed to confirm the dose, duration, and source of collagen that would benefit the skin the most. But so far, these studies show similar results, citing improvements in skin hydration, repair, and elasticity.”

Are you considering adding collagen drinks to your daily regimen? Dr. Nikki answers some common questions to help you get started.

“I recommend choosing hydrolyzed collagen because it’s more easily absorbed by the body,” says Dr. Nikki. It’s also best to go for reputable brands with clinically backed claims.

“I always tell my patients to take it consistently and regularly because we never know where the absorbed collagen peptides will go in our body,” she shares. In other words, when you ingest the drink, there’s no way to target its effect, how exactly it’ll work, and which part of the body it will benefit the most. “Also, long-term collagen intake is recommended to promote skin hydration and elasticity over time.”

Whether you decide to take it in the morning or at night is up to you. What’s more important is to stick with it, and results may follow.

“I do recommend collagen drinks and supplements, especially for patients who are concerned not just about skin aging but also bone and joint health,” says Dr. Nikki.

Collagen is the vital building block that holds so much of your body together. It supports your skin, bones, and even the squishy stuff in your joints. When you take supplements, it helps your body replenish what you naturally lose as you get older, like collagen.

If collagen drinks (or dietary supplements in general) aren’t your thing, but you simply want to take an extra step to prevent signs of aging, be more intentional with your skincare.

“My preferred way to boost collagen production in the skin would be via a skincare regimen with potent ingredients such as retinoids, peptides, vitamin C, and AHAs or alpha-hydroxy acids,” Dr. Nikki begins.

Retinoid, a potent anti-aging essential, helps stimulate collagen renewal. Peptides encourage skin repair, while vitamin C helps boost collagen synthesis, brighten complexion, and even out dark spots. AHAs help exfoliate and renew the skin.

“Other anti-aging products I’d recommend are antioxidant-rich skincare, as they help prevent collagen from breaking down,” she adds. “Sunscreens are essential, too, because UV exposure prevents collagen production.”

Be consistent with your skin care day and night. Use POND'S Bright Miracle Day Cream every morning, which can be worn under makeup. It has SPF 30 PA+++ sun protection and deep repair technology that helps fight dullness by fading dark spots to get clearer skin. In the evening, try POND'S Bright Miracle Night Serum after your cleanser and toner. It’s formulated to enhance the skin’s natural repair process for stronger, more radiant skin.  

It’s totally fine to add collagen drinks to your daily routine to support your skin, nails, hair, and joints – just don’t expect it to work like a cure-all. Remember, you still need to pair them with good lifestyle habits and a consistent skincare regimen. Think of it as playing the long game: a small, daily dose will work slowly but surely for the years to come.