10 Best Collagen Supplements of 2025 | Tested By Skincare Expert

Collagen supplements have become more popular as people search for ways to improve their skin, joints, and general body health.

Collagen is a protein naturally found in our skin, bones, and tissues. It gives these areas structure and strength. But as we age, our body’s collagen production gradually slows down. This can lead to some well known signs of aging, like wrinkles, joint stiffness, thinning hair, and other common issues.

To help us fight and potentially reduce these aging signs, collagen supplements were created. These supplements are designed to replenish the body’s natural collagen production. They come in various forms (e.g., powders, capsules, and liquids).

Choosing the best collagen supplement can be confusing because of the many types of collagen available on the market. Some supplements focus on skin benefits and others support joint health or general body strength.

So how do you know which is best for your specific needs?

This article will guide you through everything you need to look out for when choosing a collagen supplement.

Let’s get into it!

Best Collagen Supplements of 2025

After carefully reviewing countless options, we’ve curated a list of the Top Collagen Supplements on the market. Take a look at these standout brands!

WOWMD Collagen Complex – Best for Enhanced Skin Hydration & Elasticity

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 5/5
• Effectiveness 5/5
• Convenience 4.9/5
• Value 5/5

WOWMD Collagen Complex is a powerful dietary supplement that supports skin elasticity, joint health, and overall vitality. This advanced formula combines hydrolyzed collagen types I, II, and III, promoting a youthful appearance and enhanced mobility. Perfect for those aiming to age gracefully, WOWMD Collagen Complex provides essential nutrients to help you feel revitalized from within.

Key Specs

• Form: Capsules
• Type: Dietary Supplement
• Benefits: Reducing urinary leakage, decreasing urinary urgency and improving bladder tone
• Brand: WOWMD
• Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Collagen Types I, II, III
• Dosage: 3 capsules daily
• Price: $53.10*

Pros & Cons of WOWMD Collagen Complex

Pros

• Provides a comprehensive range of collagen types for diverse benefits.
• Supports skin, joint, and muscle health.
• Non-GMO, gluten-free, and sugar-free.
• Easy to integrate into a daily routine with convenient capsule form.
• Available with a subscription plan for ongoing savings.

Cons

• May interact with certain medications; consult a healthcare provider.
• Results may take several weeks to become noticeable.

WOWMD Collagen Complex Customer Reviews

Smoother Skin and Stronger Nails
I notice my skin feels smoother, and my nails don’t break as easily. It goes down easy, and I don’t taste anything weird. Sticking with it since it seems to be working. – Martouk

Amazing Results
I’ve been using this product for a couple of months now and the results are amazing! My skin feels so much firmer and more elastic and I’ve noticed a significant reduction in the fine lines around my eyes. What I love most is how versatile this supplement is—it’s not just for skin! My joints feel so much better and I’ve even seen improvements in my muscle recovery after workouts. The fact that it includes collagen types 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 from multiple sources makes it feel like a complete solution for overall wellness. Highly recommend! – Lacey N.

Beverly Hills MD Plump + Firm Advanced Collagen Booster – Top Choice for Firming and Anti-Aging

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 4.9/5
• Effectiveness 4.9/5
• Convenience 4.8/5
• Value 4.9/5

Beverly Hills MD Plump + Firm Advanced Collagen Booster is a premium formula designed to enhance skin elasticity, smoothness, and firmness for a youthful appearance. This advanced blend of collagen-supporting ingredients reduces visible signs of aging, promoting a plump and radiant complexion. Perfect for those looking to rejuvenate their skin, this supplement provides a natural boost to your daily skincare routine.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Dietary Supplement
• Benefit: Makes skin firmer, improves skin health, makes skin more radiant
• Brand: Beverly Hills MD
• Active Ingredients: Acai extract, collagen peptides, polyphenols, ceramides
• Price: $88.00*

Pros & Cons of Plump + Firm Advanced Collagen Booster

Pros

• Nourishes the skin from within.
• Provides protein to the skin.
• Tightens the skin.
• It has skin-lifting effects.

Cons

• Supplies may be limited.
• It may take some time to see the results.

Plump + Firm Advanced Collagen Booster Customer Reviews

It works
Good product. – Lael A. Fruen

Tasty, dissolvable, beneficial daily supplement!
The Beverly Hills MD Plump + Firm Advanced Collagen Booster has so far satisfied my personal and honest opinion. Upon opening this collagen supplement, I noticed that it is aesthetically pleasing to the eye as far as containers go. The tamper proof seal was well attached and provided the security and reassurance nobody has tampered with the supplement. After opening the powder is all separate granules, no clumps or pockets of weird stickiness. There is a small added scoop that comes inside the collagen container and one scoop per 8 oz of water is all you need. I personally enjoy drinking water, so I did not like the strong flavor. It’s a wonderful raspberry lemonade flavor and taste great, it’s just too much for me. I drink my water out of a 30oz tumbler and 1 scoop of this collagen powder gives the perfect light and refreshing flavor, I do not mind drinking at all. So overall, it is a win win. I haven’t noticed a huge, dramatic difference in my skin after drinking every day for a week and a half, but I have notice small youthful visual difference. My skin looks brighter and seems perkier, if that makes sense. I am pleased with the “so far” results after a 9-day difference, taste, smells and dissolves great. 5 Stars in book! – Amy H.

VitaPost Collagen Complex – Best Overall Collagen Supplement for Skin & Joints

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 5/5
• Effectiveness 4.9/5
• Convenience 4.7/5
• Value 5/5

VitaPost Collagen Complex is a revitalizing supplement crafted to support skin elasticity, joint mobility, and hair strength. Packed with hydrolyzed collagen types I, II, and III, it aims to reduce visible signs of aging, boost skin firmness, and enhance joint health. This formula is ideal for anyone looking to age gracefully with a boost in natural beauty and vitality.

Key Specs

• Form: Capsules
• Type: Supplement
• Benefit: Supports the skin’s natural firmness and skin tone, improves visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, lessens natural degradation of the joints & bones with age
• Brand: VitaPost
• Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Collagen Types I, II, III, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin , Bamboo Extract
• Dosage: 3 tablets per day
• Price: $19.80*

Pros & Cons of VitaPost Collagen Complex

Pros

• It contains 1500mg of hydrolyzed collagen in each serving
• Helps improve skin hydration, firmness, and elasticity
• Promotes healing and repair of damaged skin
• Maintain bone structure and prevent bone degradation associated with hormonal changes and aging

Cons

• For some individuals, it may take a while to work
• The results and improvements produced may vary among individuals

VitaPost Collagen Complex Customer Reviews

Lovely to see it working on my skin
Very thankful to my friend who put me on to this, I have taken almost an entire bottle and I am overjoyed at the difference it has made in my face, it’s clearly smoother. – Janet

For my older skin
My skin is thinning because I’m getting older. But I have noticed a difference since taking [Collagen Complex]. Very happy lady. – Natalia

Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex – Best Collagen Supplement for Womens

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 5/5
• Effectiveness 4.9/5
• Convenience 4.9/5
• Value 5/5

Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex is a powerful supplement designed to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and promote overall joint and bone health. Infused with B6, Hyaluronic Acid, Silica, Bamboo Extract, and Vitamin C, it provides comprehensive support for aging skin, joint discomfort, and muscle health. This formula strengthens collagen production, boosts metabolism, and helps maintain a youthful appearance.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Improves skin health, reduces wrinkles, supports joints and bones, boosts metabolism, enhances hair and nail health
• Brand: Royal Confidante
• Active Ingredients: Vitamin B6, Hyaluronic Acid, Silica, Bamboo Extract, Vitamin C, Collagen Types I, II, III, V, X
• Dosage: 1 tablespoon daily
• Price: $39.00*

Pros & Cons of Women’s Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex

Pros

• Enhances skin elasticity and hydration
• Supports joint health and mobility
• Boosts hair and nail health
• Includes high-quality, natural ingredients
• Improves muscle mass and metabolism

Cons

• May take time to show visible results
• Requires daily commitment for best results

Women’s Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex Customer Reviews

My skin feels firmer
I can’t believe the transformative power of this collagen. My skin feels firmer, my frown lines, crow’s-feet have virtually disappeared. I was so close to getting Botox and now feel confident enough where I don’t have to! Thank you for coming out with something not only natural and safe, but also a formula that works! – Angela G.

I LOST 42 LBS IN 6 WEEKS!
I noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s appearance, and a boost in my weight loss efforts. Collagen helped me maintain a feeling of fullness, reducing my cravings. This made it easier for me to achieve my weight loss goals. One of the most remarkable changes I observed was a reduction in the appearance of cellulite! I’m truly grateful for the transformative effects collagen has had on my weight loss journey and my confidence. If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to support your weight loss efforts and reduce cellulite, I highly recommend incorporating collagen into your routine. You won’t be disappointed! I LOST 42 LBS IN 6 WEEKS! – Annie B.

Vital Proteins Collagen Creamer – Best Collagen Supplement With Less Sugar

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 4/5
• Effectiveness 4/5
• Convenience 3.9/5
• Value 3.9/5

Vital Proteins Collagen Creamer is a non-dairy, low-sugar powder infused with collagen peptides. It supports healthy hair, skin, nails, and joint health while providing an energy boost with MCTs. Its vanilla flavor makes it an ideal addition to your morning coffee or tea. This collagen creamer helps nourish your body from the inside out, promoting overall wellness and beauty.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Supports skin, hair, nails, and joints, boosts energy, provides hydration
• Brand: Vital Proteins
• Active Ingredients: Collagen Peptides, Coconut Milk Powder, Silica, Gum arabic, Stevia Sweeteners
• Dosage: Add 1/4 cup to hot liquid and stir
• Price: $22.77*

Pros & Cons of Vanilla Collagen Creamer

Pros

• Supports skin and hair health
• Helps with joint health and flexibility
• Non-dairy and gluten-free
• Comes in 4 different flavors

Cons

• Not suitable for those with nut allergies
• Slightly expensive per serving
• Flavor may not suit all tastes
• Requires daily use for visible results
• Not ideal for those on a strict keto diet due to sugar content

Vanilla Collagen Creamer Customer Reviews

Changed the taste
This used to be my favorite thing in the whole world. I loved this coffee creamer. But they have a box on it now that says “now with improved taste!”. I’m so sad! Why fix what isn’t broke?? The consistency is different. It used to make my coffee creamy and frothy. Now it disolves instantly and only adds sweetness and too much coconut flavor. I dont even taste mocha. Doesn’t even seem like a creamer anymore. Just like sweet coconut. Please go back to original formula.- Fran

Love it
I love this collagen with my coffee! It mixes well when you have a frother to blend it with. If you mix with a spoon , yeah it’s going to get clumpy. Highly recommend, the creamer feels like a sweet treat but in a healthy way. – Gabrielle

Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein – Best Collagen Supplement For Postpartum Mothers

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 4/5
• Effectiveness 4/5
• Convenience 3.9/5
• Value 4/5

Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein Powder is specially formulated for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery. This collagen supplement supports skin and tissue health, immunity, and gut health for both mama and baby. It contains 14g of protein per serving and is ethically sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised, hormone-free bovines. Developed with doctors and experts, it provides essential nutrients for expectant and new mothers.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Supports skin health, joint health, immunity, gut health, and postpartum recovery
• Brand: Needed
• Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen
• Dosage: Mix 1 scoop with water or desired beverage
• Price: $47.49*

Pros & Cons of Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein

Pros

• Supports skin, joint, and gut health
• Ideal for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum
• Grass-fed, hormone-free collagen
• Expertly formulated with doctors and practitioners

Cons

• Limited shipping options available
• Slightly expensive per serving
• Not suitable for vegans
• Flavor may not be appealing to all users
• Requires daily use for best results

Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein Customer Reviews

Collagen Protein
Dissolves perfectly. I enjoy it best in my coffee.- Lauren

Bad taste
I did not like the taste of it at all. Drank it in water. – A Soundararaja

Thorne Collagen Plus – Best Collagen Supplement For Skin

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 3.9/5
• Effectiveness 3.9/5
• Convenience 3.9/5
• Value 3.9/5

Thorne Collagen Plus combines collagen peptides with nicotinamide riboside to enhance skin texture and moisture. It supports healthy skin, hair, and nails, promoting youthful skin appearance by reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and boosting skin hydration. It is designed to improve skin elasticity, reduce dryness, and brighten skin pigmentation. Thorne is known for its high-quality products, trusted by professional athletes and teams.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Supports skin, hair, and nails health, promotes hydration and elasticity, reduces fine lines
• Brand: Thorne
• Active Ingredients: Collagen peptides, MetoHeal RedCurrant and BlackCurrant, Nicotinamide riboside, HydroPeach Ceramides
• Dosage: 1 scoop mixed in 8 oz of liquid
• Price: $63.00*

Pros & Cons of Thorne Collagen Plus

Pros

• Enhances skin hydration and elasticity
• Improves skin texture and reduces fine lines
• Trusted by professional athletes
• Clinically studied ingredients

Cons

• Slightly expensive per serving
• Flavor may not appeal to all
• Requires consistent use for noticeable results

Thorne Collagen Plus Customer Reviews

Collagen drink
Expensive but helps my skin and joints! Taste is not bad all and easy to drink! Dissolves quickly in water.- tiffany

Good but too sweet!
I wish this brand had a unflavored type because this one is way too sweet. – Celia

Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen – Best Collagen Supplement With Natural Ingredients

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 3.8/5
• Effectiveness 3.8/5
• Convenience 3.9/5
• Value 3.8/5

Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen is an unflavored, hydrolyzed collagen powder made from grass-fed, pasture-raised, hormone-free cows. It supports healthy skin, joints, and digestive function, providing essential amino acids to improve overall well-being. With over 10 grams of protein per serving and no added sugar or fat, it offers high bioavailability and easily dissolves in both hot and cold liquids.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Supports skin, joints, and digestive health, promotes healthy muscle restoration, enhances hair and nail strength
• Brand: Perfect Supplements
• Active Ingredients: Brazilian Pasture Raised Bovine Hydrolyzed Collagen
• Dosage: Add 1 or 2 scoops daily with any liquid
• Price: $44.50*

Pros & Cons of Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen

Pros

• High bioavailability and easily absorbable
• No added sugar, fat, or carbs
• Paleo and gluten-free
• Supports multiple health benefits (skin, joints, digestion)

Cons

• Unflavored may not appeal to everyone
• Limited flavor options/li>
• Slightly higher cost compared to other collagen powders

Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen Customer Reviews

Tasteless in my coffee
I love this product because it mixes nicely into my coffee, has quality ingredients and has improved my skin and nails. I’ve also had some pain relief in my joints. It has become a staple in my wellness routine.- Teresa Gleckler

Dissolves instantly
I put this in my coffee every morning. It dissolves instantly and has no taste. – Sunday

Garden Of Life Collagen Peptides – Best Collagen Supplement for Joints

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 3.7/5
• Effectiveness 3.8/5
• Convenience 3.9/5
• Value 3.9/5

Garden of Life Grass Fed Collagen Peptides Powder is a high-quality, unflavored collagen supplement that supports healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints. Packed with 18g of protein per serving, it helps promote skin elasticity, improve gut health, and support mobility and digestion. Ideal for both men and women, it’s made from grass-fed cows and includes 250 million CFU probiotics for enhanced digestion.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Supports skin, hair, nails, joint health, gut health, muscle growth, digestion
• Brand: Garden of Life
• Active Ingredients: Bovine Hide Collagen Peptides, Bacillus Coagulans
• Dosage: Mix 1 scoop in liquid
• Price: $32.89*

Pros & Cons of Garden Of Life Collagen Peptides

Pros

• Supports skin, hair, and nail health
• Promotes joint health and mobility
• Gut health support with probiotics
• No sugar, fat, or carbs
• Non-GMO, gluten-free, hormone-free

Cons

• Non-returnable due to food safety reasons
• Limited flavor options/li>
• May not be suitable for those with dairy or soy sensitivities

Garden Of Life Collagen Peptides Customer Reviews

Chunky mix
I gave this product a 3 star because the product seems to be improving my skin, making it plump, healthy and young I’m 33 yrs old. The problem is the powder it’s self.. it does not mix well it’s chunky and thick in all liquids hot or cold. It’s also has a funky taste. It’s very noticeable. But drinkable. I’m going to finish this product but but a new one for next time.- AC

Truly tasteless
This is a great and truly tasteless collagen! It’s one of the best prices on the market too. – Lucy keene

Sports Research Collagen Peptides – Best Brand Collagen Supplement For Joints

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*All the prices listed here are as they appear on their websites and are subject to change.

Our Rating

• Comfort 3.7/5
• Effectiveness 3.8/5
• Convenience 3.8/5
• Value 3.9/5

Sports Research Collagen Peptides is a hydrolyzed collagen powder that supports healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints. With 11g of protein per serving, it promotes radiant skin and supports joint mobility. This supplement is easy to mix into any liquid and is ideal for both women and men. Its amino acids and peptides help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Key Specs

• Form: Powder
• Type: Collagen Supplement
• Benefit: Supports skin, nails, hair, joints, and digestive health
• Brand: Sports Research
• Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen Peptides, Amino Acids, Cocoa powder, Stevia leaf extract
• Dosage: Mix 1 scoop in liquid
• Price: $34.95*

Pros & Cons of Sports Research Collagen Peptides

Pros

• Supports radiant skin and joint health
• Promotes healthy hair and nails
• Easy to mix in any liquid
• Non-GMO, gluten-free, keto-certified

Cons

• May not be suitable for those with dairy allergies
• Limited flavor options/li>
• Slightly high in price compared to similar products

Sports Research Collagen Peptides Customer Reviews

Good product
Good product.- Ignacio

The taste is great and the packaging looks high quality
I manifest it will give good results. The taste is great. This is the tastiest collagen I ever tried so far as I have used unflavored collagen. The coffee gives you coffeeshop taste if you try with instant coffee. And the packaging really attracted my eyes as it looks quality and decorate your kitchen pantry too( it’s just an optional) – Manori Rimona

What Is Collagen?

Collagen plays a vital role in the body’s health and structure. It acts as glue that holds the body together. This essential protein makes up a large part of skin, bones, and connective tissues. The body naturally makes different types of collagen, with types I, II, and III being the most common.

As we age, the body starts making less collagen. This natural decline shows up in visible ways, like less firm skin or weaker bones. Lifestyle choices can speed up this process too. Things like too much sun exposure, smoking, or not getting enough sleep can reduce collagen levels faster.

That’s why many people turn to collagen supplements to help make up for this loss. These supplements come in several easy-to-use forms. Collagen powder mixes into morning coffee or water, or comes as a pill, tablet, gummy, or liquid. These options make it simple to add collagen to daily routines.

Types of Collagen

There are 28 different types of collagen in our bodies. Each type has its own special structure and purpose. Let’s break down the four main types of collagen you need to know about:

Type I: It makes up 80% of all the collagen in the body.^[1] This type packs tightly together to give structure to the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

Type II: It mainly focuses on your joints. It lives in your cartilage that helps the joints move smoothly. When you bend your knee or flex your elbow, Type II collagen helps make that movement possible.^[2]

Type III: It supports organs and muscles. It is present in arteries too. It helps keep these important parts of the body strong and also helps to recover from tissue injury and supports regeneration and wound healing.^[3]

Type IV: It creates layers that help give your skin its structure and strength.^[4]

How We Test and Select the Best Collagen Supplements?

Choosing the right collagen supplement involves looking at more than just the label. To ensure we’re recommending high quality products, we carefully examine each supplement based on key criterias. This process helps us identify options that provide real benefits and meet safety standards.

First, we check the source of collagen. Collagen can come from various sources, like bovine (cow) marine (fish, jellyfish, etc.,) or chicken.

Next, we review the ingredient list. The best collagen supplements are made with high quality ingredients. We avoid products with unnecessary fillers, artificial additives, or excess sugars. In some cases, added vitamins, like vitamin C, improve collagen absorption, so we consider supplements that include supportive ingredients as a plus.

We also consider the form and ease of use. Collagen supplements are available in powders, capsules, and liquid forms. We evaluate whether a supplement is easy to mix, swallow, or add into a daily routine without difficulty.

Finally, we assess customer reviews and feedback. Real user experiences reveal a lot about a supplement’s effectiveness and any potential side effects. We consider both positive and negative reviews and pay attention to consistent trends rather than isolated comments. This way, we can confidently recommend the best options for various needs.

What to Look For in a Collagen Supplement?

Currently, there are so many collagen supplements on the market claiming to be the best. This can make it tricky to decide which one is right for you. But when you know the specific details to look for, it’s easier to find an effective product with real benefits that meets your needs.

Here are the main factors to consider when choosing a collagen supplement:

1. Type of Collagen
Collagen comes in several types. Type I and III collagen are often found in skin, hair, and nails. Type II collagen improves joint health and is commonly used for cartilage. Type IV collagen is beneficial for skin structure and type V is good for strengthening bone and muscles.

2. Collagen Source
The source of collagen also matters. Bovine and marine collagen are popular options. Bovine collagen often benefits joints and bones, while marine collagen is known to support skin. For those with dietary preferences, some vegan alternatives exist, though these may not provide the same proteins as animal derived collagen.

3. Additional Ingredients
Some collagen supplements include extra ingredients, like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, which can help your body better absorb and use collagen more effectively.

4. Form and Convenience
Collagen supplements are available in different forms, such as powders, capsules, or liquids. Powders are versatile and easy to mix into drinks, while capsules offer a simple, no-mix option. Choose a form that best fits your routine so it’s something you can take regularly.

5. Brand Transparency
Look for brands that are open about their ingredients, sourcing practices, and quality control. Reputable companies usually provide information on their website about where their collagen comes from and how it’s processed.

6. Testing and Quality Standards
Supplements that have been third party tested for purity and quality offer added assurance. Independent testing confirms that the product meets safety standards and contains the ingredients it claims.

Do Collagen Supplements Work?

The rave around collagen supplements makes many people wonder if it actually delivers results. The short answer is YES, collagen works!

Research proves that collagen supplements may support specific areas, such as skin and joints.

For skin, studies show that collagen can help improve elasticity and hydration. This can result in smoother and firmer looking skin over time. Joint health is another area where collagen supplements have been shown to make a difference.^[5]

Collagen is a key component in cartilage, which cushions our joints. Some research indicates that collagen supplements can reduce stiffness or discomfort, especially for those with joint issues.^[6]

Collagen supplements provide amino acids that are the building blocks needed for collagen production. Once ingested, the body breaks down these amino acids and they go wherever needed.

However, it’s important to manage expectations. Collagen supplements are not an instant fix. Visible results may take weeks or even months, depending on factors like your age, lifestyle, and the specific area you’re looking to support.

Ingredients

When choosing a collagen supplement, it’s essential to know what’s inside the product. The right ingredients can make a big difference in how effective the supplement is and how well your body absorbs it.

Here are the main ingredients to look out for in a quality collagen supplement.

Collagen Peptides – According to scientific study published in the Molecules, most collagen supplements contain collagen peptides, which are broken down forms of collagen that are easier for the body to absorb.^[7]

Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a valuable addition to collagen supplements because it helps in collagen synthesis. The body relies on vitamin C to produce collagen naturally, so when it’s included in a supplement, it can support more efficient collagen production.^[8]

Hyaluronic Acid – Often found in skin supporting collagen products, hyaluronic acid is known for retaining moisture.

As we explained in our review of Beverly Hills MD Multi-Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Booster, It can help keep skin hydrated and may work well with collagen to improve skin elasticity and smoothness. Hyaluronic Acid helps make the skin look firmer and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging

Biotin – This B vitamin is sometimes added to collagen supplements (especially those focused on hair, skin, and nails). Biotin supports keratin production (a protein found in hair and nails) and can improve strength and growth over time.^[9]

Amino Acids – Collagen is rich in amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline that are important for maintaining healthy skin and connective tissues. Some supplements include additional amino acids to support collagen’s benefits even further.^[10]

Natural Flavors and Sweeteners – In flavored collagen powders, natural ingredients like fruit extracts or stevia are often used to make the product taste better. Choose a supplement with natural flavors or minimal sweeteners to avoid excess sugars and additives that don’t benefit your health.

Minerals – Certain minerals, like zinc and copper, sometimes appear in collagen supplements. These minerals support skin health and tissue repair.

Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements

Taking collagen daily can be a great way to support your body. Here are some key benefits you may enjoy with regular use of collagen supplements:

• Smoother, Firmer Skin: Collagen is essential for keeping skin looking youthful and vibrant. Many people find that their skin appears more hydrated and resilient after consistent collagen use.
• Greater Joint Comfort: Collagen keeps joints flexible and cushioned (which is why it’s so valuable as we get older). Regular use of collagen supplements may help reduce stiffness and improve joint mobility.
• Stronger Hair and Nails: Collagen’s amino acids support stronger, healthier hair and nails. Many people notice thicker hair, improved shine, and nails that are less likely to chip or break.
• Healthier Bones: Bones rely on collagen for structure and strength, which makes collagen a great supplement to help maintain bone density and strength.
• Enhanced Muscle Support: Collagen provides amino acids that aid in muscle growth and repair, especially when combined with exercise.
• Gut Health Support: Collagen’s amino acids, like glycine and glutamine, helps with digestion and general gut comfort.

Are Collagen Supplements Safe to Use?

For most people, collagen supplements are considered safe and well tolerated. They’re made from natural sources that the body can easily absorb and use.

However, as with any supplement, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have a safe and positive experience.

• Source and Quality: High quality brands are transparent about where they source their collagen. Look for products with strict quality controls to ensure they are free from contaminants and safe for regular use.
• Allergies: People with specific allergies, such as to fish or shellfish, should check labels carefully to avoid allergens. For those with dietary preferences, vegan-friendly alternatives are available, although they may use ingredients that mimic collagen instead of actual collagen.
• Digestive Comfort: In rare cases, some may experience mild digestive discomfort, like bloating, when starting collagen. To Potentially avoid this, try starting with a smaller dose and gradually increase to let your body adjust.
• Health Conditions: If you’re pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including collagen. This ensures it fits well with your health needs.

Who Should Consider Using Collagen Supplements?

Collagen supplements can be beneficial for many people, especially those looking to support specific areas of health.

Here are some groups who may find collagen supplements particularly helpful:

• Adults Experiencing Signs of Aging: As natural collagen levels in the body begin to drop with age, collagen supplements can help to support smoother skin, maintain skin elasticity, and promote comfortable joint movement.
• Active Individuals and Athletes: For people who engage in regular physical activity that put extra strain on their joints and muscles, collagen can help support joint health.
• Those with Joint Discomfort: Joint stiffness or discomfort can make daily activities harder. Collagen supplements may help in cushioning and provide flexibility.
• Individuals Looking to Improve Hair, Skin, and Nail Health: If you’re aiming for healthier hair, stronger nails, or glowing skin, collagen could be a useful addition.
• People Focused on Bone Health: Since collagen makes up a large portion of our bones, adding it to your diet may be helpful for those wanting to maintain bone strength, especially as they age.
• Those Interested in Supporting Digestive Health: For individuals focusing on gut health, collagen provides amino acids like glutamine and glycine, which may support a healthy gut lining.

Key Factors for Healthy Skin Beyond Collagen

Hydration: Drinking adequate water throughout the day maintains skin hydration and improves texture. Regular water intake acts as a natural internal moisturizer for the skin.

Essential Nutrients: A nutrient-rich diet supports optimal skin health. Foods containing zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provide vital nourishment. Vitamin C deserves particular attention as it boosts natural collagen production in the body.

Foods to Avoid: Limiting processed foods and sugary items helps maintain skin health. These items can interfere with healthy skin function and appearance.

Sleep Quality: Getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night allows skin cells to repair and regenerate. Quality sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin.

Harmful Habits: Avoiding sodas and limiting alcohol consumption protects skin health. Smoking causes significant damage to natural collagen production and should be avoided.

Sun Protection: Applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher provides essential protection from sun damage. This protection remains important even during cloudy weather.

These practices, combined with proper collagen levels, create an effective foundation for maintaining healthy, resilient skin.

Final Verdict

Collagen supplements have become a popular choice for those looking to improve the areas of their health that easily succumb to aging. With consistent use, collagen can support these areas (skin firmness, joint flexibility, and bone strength).

When choosing a collagen supplement, keep in mind the source, type, and additional ingredients contained in it. Also, get the forms of collagen that can help you stay consistent with daily use to enjoy the full benefits.

While collagen supplements aren’t a magic fix, many users report positive effects with regular use. This is particularly true for skin hydration, joint comfort, and even hair and nail strength.

Frequently Asked Questions