This has driven growing interest in a plant-based collagen alternative that could provide the same skin benefits without these drawbacks. In a randomised, placebo-controlled trial, researchers evaluated VC-H1, a hibiscus enzyme extract, as an oral plant-based collagen alternative for photoaged skin. Over 12 weeks, participants experienced significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, wrinkle reduction, and texture compared with placebo. This favourable safety profile, combined with its rejuvenative effects, positions hibiscus extract as a strong contender among plant-based collagen alternatives. Hibiscus collagen alternative (VC-H1) as an oral skin rejuvenating agent: a 12-week pilot study.