Oral and topical peptides for skin aging: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Peptides may provide modest improvements in skin aging signs, particularly with oral formulations, but the clinical relevance of these findings requires further investigation.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the matrixyl corpusSummary and findings
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of oral and topical peptides in improving skin aging parameters among 1,341 participants. The analysis reported a modest pooled effect on wrinkle reduction with a mean difference (MD) of 0.27, p=0.04, and a more significant effect for oral polypeptides with an MD of 1.5, p=0.01. No therapeutic claims are made.
Abstract
<h4>Introduction</h4>Skin aging manifests as wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and roughness due to intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Peptide-based therapies enhance collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix integrity. This systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) evaluates the efficacy and safety of oral and topical peptides in improving hydration, elasticity, wrinkles, and brightness.<h4>Methods</h4>A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing peptide effects on skin aging parameters were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 2) assessed study quality. Data were synthesized using a random-effects model in RStudio (R version 4.1.1).<h4>Conclusion</h4>Nineteen RCTs involving 1,341 participants were analyzed. Peptides, particularly oral formulations, significantly improved hydration and brightness, with a modest pooled effect on wrinkle reduction (MD = 0.27, <i>p</i> = 0.04). Subgroup analysis indicated that this benefit was largely driven by oral polypeptides (MD = 1.5, <i>p</i> = 0.01). While effects on elasticity and density were inconsistent, peptides were well tolerated, with minimal adverse events reported across trials. Overall, peptides appear to be safe, non-invasive anti-aging agents, though larger RCTs with standardized outcomes and histopathologic assessment are warranted.<h4>Systematic review registration</h4>identifier CRD420250652779.