Dietary Supplements and Skin Anti-Ageing: Separating Facts from Fiction

Abstract

Background: Recently, the global dietary supplement market has experienced a surge, fueled by
consumer demand for non-invasive ways to slow or reverse skin ageing. Ageing skin undergoes structural
and biochemical changes, which manifest as wrinkles, dryness, and laxity. Ageing of the skin is influenced
by intrinsic (genetic) and extrinsic (UV exposure, pollution, lifestyle) factors. Dietary supplements –
supplements added to improve the normal diet - improve skin health and potentially slow down visible signs
of ageing.

Objective: To critically evaluate clinical evidence supporting the use of popular oral dietary supplements
for skin anti-ageing.

Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed journal articles was conducted. Databases were searched
for randomized controlled trials, cross-sectional analyses, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses
assessing oral supplementation with vitamins (C, D, E), carotenoids, collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid,
Coenzyme Q10, essential fatty acids, polyphenols, zinc, and selenium on skin ageing parameters. Studies
were organized by supplement class, with emphasis on clinical outcomes (wrinkle depth, elasticity,
hydration) and mechanisms of action.

Result: Certain supplements demonstrate anti-ageing potential: vitamin C improves radical scavenging
and reduces wrinkles; hydrolyzed collagen enhances hydration and elasticity (supported by metaanalyses);
hyaluronic acid boosts skin moisture. However, small sample sizes, short study durations, and
heterogeneity in supplement formulations limit the strength of the conclusion.

Conclusion: Dietary supplements are adjuncts to holistic skin ageing strategies that incorporate
photoprotection, nutrition, and lifestyle, but they are not standalone. Large-scale, long-term randomized
trials with standardized formulations and dosing remain a priority for future research.

Keywords: dietary supplements, skin ageing, skin anti-ageing, dermatology