Collagen Supplements

Collagen supplements rank as the most overpriced wellness trend, with the global market surpassing $5 billion in 2023 despite weak scientific backing. A 2019 meta-analysis in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that oral collagen produced only a 2.2% improvement in skin hydration compared to placebo—negligible for healthy adults. Joint health claims fare no better: a 2021 review in Sports Medicine concluded that evidence for reducing pain is inconsistent and relies on small sample sizes. This trend outperforms #10 Grounding / Earthing in market hype but underperforms even basic protein sources like whey in supporting collagen synthesis at roughly $30 per month for effective dosages. Consumers are better off investing in a balanced diet rich in vitamin C and amino acids.