The 11 Best Collagen Supplements for Healthy Skin, Joints and Hair in 2024

Collagen production slows down as we age, which can compromise the health of our skin, organs and connective tissues. These supplements can help.

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While it may seem like collagen supplements popped onto store shelves overnight, collagen has always been a vital building block for skin, bones, muscles and connective tissues. Supplementing with collagen has grown in popularity in part as the result of controlled trials showing that collagen can improve skin elasticity and symptoms of joint disorders like osteoarthritis.

Collagen supplementation is available in skin creams, serums, pills and powders, but the body already produces collagen when we eat protein-rich foods like chicken, eggs, beef, dairy products and beans. Unfortunately, collagen production slows significantly as we age or with too much sun exposure, alcohol consumption or not enough sleep or exercise.

If you suspect your collagen levels may be low, a collagen supplement may help boost the levels in your body. There’s no recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for collagen, but a 2019 study suggests that 2.5 to 15 grams per day may be effective.

We’ve tested several of the most popular collagen supplements on the market and used what we found to compile a list of the best collagen supplements in 2024, including powders, capsules and liquids from a variety of sources. We also enlisted the help of nutrition experts to explain how these supplements work and how to use them for the best results.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Best Collagen Supplements of 2024:

• Best Overall Collagen Supplement Powder: BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein
• Best Tasting Collagen Supplement: Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate
• Best Collagen Supplements for Weight Loss: Utzy Naturals Coll-U-Gen
• Best Collagen Supplement for Skin: Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate
• Best Collagen Supplements for Women: BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein
• Best Unflavored Collagen Supplement: BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein
• Best Personalized Collagen Supplement: Gainful Collagen Performance Boost
• Best Supplement Stack with Collagen: Transparent Labs Gut Essentials Stack
• Best Marine-Derived Collagen Supplement: Vital Proteins Marine Collagen
• Best Liquid Collagen: Vital Proteins Collagen Water
• Best Capsule Collagen Supplement: Hum Nutrition Collagen Love

Best Overall Collagen Supplement Powder: BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein

SI Showcase

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Pasture-raised, grass-fed cows
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, dairy-free, corn-free, non-GMO
• Serving size: 20 grams
• Amount of collagen per serving: 20 grams
• Protein per serving: 18 grams
• Servings per container: About 28
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptide Protein powder is made from pasture-raised, grass-fed cow skins and hides, and features eight of the nine essential amino acids, including lysine and valine. This collagen powder is immediately bioavailable, meaning that the collagen is easily digestible and absorbable—thanks, in part, to it being hydrolyzed (broken down into more dissolvable amino acids).

Each two-scoop serving delivers 18 grams of protein from 20 grams of bovine (cow) collagen peptides. This unflavored powder can be mixed into smoothies, coffee, tea, juice and plain hot or cold water. Users on Amazon give it 4.6/5 stars (with 1,878 reviews at the time of writing). Most say it dissolves quickly and doesn't have an aftertaste. A few reviewers even mix it in yogurt. 

This collagen powder is keto, paleo and Whole30 diet-friendly in addition to having high servings of alanine and arginine, amino acids that support protein production. 

What we like:

• Dissolves quickly and has no taste
• Can be mixed into food as well as beverages
• Subscribers save 15 percent
• Allergen-free

What to consider:

• No flavor options available
• One of the more expensive options on our list ($1.68/serving)

Best Tasting Collagen Supplement: Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate

SI Showcase

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Hydrolyzed bovine collagen
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free; processed in a facility with nuts, but the brand has an allergen control program in place that sanitizes and cleans the equipment between runs
• Serving size: 13.75 grams
• Protein per serving: 10 grams
• Servings per container: 30
• Amount of collagen per serving: 11 grams
• Unflavored/Flavored? Flavored (Chocolate)

Why I picked it:

Collagen supplements have a reputation for tasting like, as one reviewer put it, "ground-up cartilage." That same reviewer gave Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate powder 5/5 stars for its outstanding taste (that presumably does not taste like ground-up cartilage). This collagen powder has a chocolate flavor that reviewers overwhelmingly say tastes like chocolate milk when mixed with milk or water. Several mix it into their black coffee in the morning to give their coffee a mocha flavor. Others drink it in warm milk as an evening treat.

"Best tasting collagen I’ve ever had! Mixes great and is a great little nighttime treat before bed," writes Lacey Z. on the Transparent Labs website. 

"It tastes great, like hot cocoa," writes Leslie M. 

Beyond flavor, this collagen supplement serves up 10 grams of protein from 11 grams of hydrolyzed bovine collagen. It doesn't contain any artificial sweeteners, preservatives or coloring. The only other ingredients are cocoa powder, natural flavors and stevia. Transparent Labs has this product third-party tested for purity and also states that this collagen powder is gluten-free and non-GMO.

What we like:

• Tastes like chocolate milk or hot cocoa with mixed in warm water or milk
• No artificial sweeteners, preservatives or coloring
• Third-party tested for purity
• Non-GMO and gluten-free
• Affordably priced ($1.17/serving) with extra savings for subscribers

What to consider:

• Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians
• Only 10 grams of protein per serving

Best Collagen Supplements for Weight Loss: Utzy Naturals Coll-U-Gen

Utzy Naturals

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Type II and III
• Source: Chicken
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, corn-free, yeast-free, free of artificial colors and flavors
• Serving size: One scoop
• Amount of collagen per serving: 45 grams
• Protein per serving: Five grams
• Servings per container: 24
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

Utzy Naturals Coll-U-Gen is formulated to accelerate muscle recovery after exercise and support joint health so you feel rejuvenated and can continue working toward your weight loss goals. Each serving contains 40 milligrams of type II Undenatured Collagen (UC-II), a form of collagen derived from chicken sternum. This dose has demonstrated the potential to lengthen the period of pain-free activity and exertion and alleviate joint pain that may arise post-exertion. Research states that UC-II may improve knee function and pain, and many studies have shown that UC-II improves joint flexibility, comfort and mobility.

This supplement also has five grams of type III Bovine collagen (Fortigel), which supports and maintains the structure of tissue fibers and is an important component of muscles and blood vessels. A study published by the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition suggests that Fortigel has a beneficial effect on the development and repair of ligaments by enhancing the production of the molecules that make up these tissues.

Many reviews on the Utzy Naturals website state that they notice a difference in how they feel post-workout after taking the supplement. Verified buyer Kim T. says, “The people are great to work with if you need something or have questions! I started using the collagen following my intense workouts and have noticed a difference in my joints—quicker recovery!”

What we like:

• Third-party tested for purity, potency and strength
• Monthly subscription saves 15%
• Contains UC-II and Fortigel—two clinically researched forms of collagen
• Reviews mention it dissolves well in beverages

What to consider:

• UC-II is not derived from an organic source
• Expensive

Best Collagen Supplement for Skin: Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate

SI Showcase

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Hydrolyzed bovine collagen
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free; processed in a facility with nuts, but the brand has an allergen control program in place that sanitizes and cleans the equipment between runs
• Serving size: 13.75 grams
• Protein per serving: 10 grams
• Servings per container: 30
• Amount of collagen per serving: 11 grams
• Unflavored/Flavored? Flavored (Chocolate)

Why I picked it:

Research indicates that oral collagen supplementation (though not topical collagen) can improve the moisture, elasticity and hydration of your skin. There are also no reported side effects from taking collagen as an oral supplement, which means it’s as safe as it is effective.

The amount of collagen you need before seeing changes in your skin depends on your body. An effective dose is 2.5 to 15 grams, and with 11 grams of bovine collagen, Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate is on the high end of the recommended range. 

This collagen is flavored with cocoa powder and stevia, and customer reviews say that it tastes delicious and mixes well. We tested this collagen, and recommend mixing it with milk rather than water for the best flavor. It also blends well with other powders, such as protein powder. 

What we like:

• Hydrolysate collagen is broken down to help your body absorb it more effectively
• 11 grams per dose is within the recommended range for best results
• Transparent Labs has all of its supplements third-party tested for quality and safety
• Gluten-free

What to consider:

• Not vegan or vegetarian friendly

Best Collagen Supplements for Women: BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein 

SI Showcase

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Pasture-raised, grass-fed cows
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, dairy-free, corn-free, non-GMO
• Serving size: 20 grams
• Amount of collagen per serving: 20 grams
• Protein per serving: 18 grams
• Servings per container: About 28
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

BUBS Collagen Peptides is an unflavored powder that contains 20 grams of collagen peptides per serving to boost joint, skin, hair and nail health.

Collagen peptides derived from bovine are ideal for all the ladies out there who want to hydrate and boost their skin elasticity. A 2018 study found that women given 1,000 milligrams per day showed improvement in skin hydration, wrinkling and elasticity after 12 weeks. This formula also contains 80 milligrams of sodium, which plays a supporting role in the collagen production process.

Reviews on the BUBS website are mostly positive and reviewers rate Collagen Peptides 4.7/5. Many reviewers mention that it mixes well in beverages and that they notice a difference in their joint and skin health. One says, “Completely tasteless and no clumps in my coffee. I call this my drinkable botox. As a high-level athlete, I'm mostly concerned about the impact on my body, joints and recovery—and that positive impact is noticeable.”

What we like:

• There are 18 grams of protein per serving
• Formulated with collagen peptides extracted from bovine
• Gluten, soy, corn and nut-free

What to consider:

• Expensive without a subscription

Best Unflavored Collagen Supplement: BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein

SI Showcase

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Pasture-raised, grass-fed cows
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, dairy-free, corn-free, non-GMO
• Serving size: 20 grams
• Amount of collagen per serving: 20 grams
• Protein per serving: 18 grams
• Servings per container: About 28
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

BUBS Collagen Peptides Protein is an unflavored, powdered formula that's easy to mix into cool or hot beverages without adding taste. The recommended serving size is two scoops into your chosen drink. 

The majority of customers say this collagen powder is truly flavorless and dissolves easily in liquid. It has 4.7/5 stars on the BUBS website and 4.6/5 stars on Amazon. Many mix it in their morning coffee, though some add it to oatmeal and protein shakes. 

A review by Betty M. on the BUBS website says, "I add it to my morning coffee and it dissolves completely. It is truly unflavored."

Another reviewer named Cheryl B. on the BUBS website says, "This is my favorite collagen supplement to date! I've tried a bunch of brands and this one blends seamlessly, no lumps at all, no flavor or aftertaste, and I've noticed a huge improvement in my joint pain and digestion. It's fantastic!"

Additionally, BUBS is NSF-certified, meaning that its safe for athletes who are regularly drug tested, and compatible with Whole 30, the keto diet and the paleo diet.

What we like:

• Powder mixes easily in liquids with no flavor or aftertaste
• Allergen-free
• Can be mixed into food as well as beverages
• High protein content per serving (18 grams)

What to consider:

• One of the more expensive collagen supplements on our list ($1.68/serving)
• Only 28 servings per container, rather than a whole month's worth

Best Personalized Collagen Supplement: Gainful Collagen Performance Boost

Gainful

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder
• Type of collagen: Type I and III
• Source: Hydrolyzed bovine collagen
• Dietary considerations: Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians
• Serving size: 10 grams 
• Amount of collagen per serving: 10 grams 
• Protein per serving: Varies based on personal formula
• Servings per container: 14–28
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

Gainful utilizes a quiz about your body type, diet, exercise habits and overall health goals to formulate a supplement subscription for your specific needs—thus why it gets our "best personalized" nod. 

Once you complete the quiz, the brand recommends a protein powder formula and performance boosts that are auto-shipped to your house on a regular schedule. One of the boost options is hydrolyzed bovine collagen powder. This powder is unflavored, and is meant to be mixed into other beverages, including your customized Gainful protein powder formula. 

Included with your subscription is access to a Registered Dietitian who can help answer questions about your health and fitness goals.

What we like:

• 10-gram dose falls within the effective dosage range
• Powder is unflavored to be easily mixed in liquid or soft foods
• Subscription includes access to a registered dietitian

What to consider:

• Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians

• Only available as a subscription

Best Supplement Stack with Collagen: Transparent Labs Gut Essentials Stack

Transparent Labs

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder and capsule 
• Type of collagen: Type I and III
• Source: Hydrolyzed bovine collagen
• Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, non-GMO
• Serving size: Varies
• Amount of collagen per serving: 11 grams
• Protein per serving: 10 grams (collagen powder)
• Servings per container: 30 (collagen powder)
• Flavored/unflavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

While less known for gut health than prebiotics and probiotics, collagen peptides have been shown to reduce bloating and improve mild digestive symptoms. 

The Transparent Labs Gut Essentials Stack aims to optimize your gut health from multiple angles. In addition to the brand's Collagen Hydrolysate, this supplement stack includes the Gut Health Probiotic for growth of healthy gastrointestinal bacteria and the Prebiotic Greens to provide food for those bacteria. 

Transparent Labs is known in the industry for its transparent ingredient and nutrient labeling, which is, unfortunately, not as common as it should be. It also has its products third-party tested for quality and purity, so you can trust that what you see on the label is what you're putting into your body—a factor that's especially important for maintaining the health of your digestive tract.

What we like:

• Provides a complete supplemental approach to gut health
• Collagen powder is easy to mix into almost any beverage
• Customers rave about the taste and mixability of the collagen powder

What to consider:

• May be more supplements than some people are interested in taking

Best Marine-Derived Collagen Supplement: Vital Proteins Marine Collagen

Vital Proteins

Key features and specs:

• Form: Powder and capsule
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Wild-caught cod
• Dietary Considerations: Dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO
• Serving size: 7 capsules (2-4x/day), 1-2 scoops of powder/day
• Amount of collagen per serving: Five grams (capsule); 12 grams (powder)
• Protein per serving: 2 grams (capsule), 11 grams (powder)
• Servings per container: 51 (capsule), 18 (powder)
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

If you’re looking for a marine collagen supplement that doesn't have that overpowering "catch of the day" taste, you'll want to check out Vital Proteins Marine Collagen. Certified sports nutrition coach Pete Nastasi tried it and came away impressed.

"What I really like about this product is that there is literally no taste," he says. "I was able to mix it in water or a smoothie in the morning and it doesn't add any flavor or texture or anything."

Customers on the Vital Proteins website give it 4.5/5 stars (with 613 reviews at the time of writing). Specifically, they rate it 4.4/5 stars for flavor and 4.2/5 stars for value. Most of the positive reviews report an improvement in the thickness and health of their skin and nails. Most of the negative reviews mention a fishy taste when mixed just in water, and a couple suggest mixing it with another flavored drink powder (like Liquid IV).

Though made from wild-caught cod, you'll get all the same benefits from marine collagen as its bovine counterpart. Additionally, this supplement is made to quickly dissolve in hot or cold liquids, is easily digestible and is highly bioavailable (meaning it absorbs easily). 

Related Post: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Review

What we like:

• Available in both capsule and powder form
• Unflavored for easy mixing in beverages or soft foods
• Pescatarian friendly

What to consider:

• Capsule serving size is seven capsules multiple times per day
• Some users say the product has a slightly fishy taste

Best Liquid Collagen: Vital Proteins Collagen Water

Vital Proteins

Key features and specs:

• Form: Liquid
• Type of collagen: Unlisted
• Source: Bovine
• Dietary Considerations: Contains bovine collagen (not for vegetarians/vegans)
• Serving size: One bottle
• Amount of collagen per serving: 10 grams
• Protein per serving: 10 grams
• Serving size per container: One bottle
• Unflavored/Flavored? Flavored (Lemon Ginger, Blackberry Hibiscus, Lemon Slice and Strawberry Lemon)

Why I picked it:

Vital Proteins Collagen Water is a liquid collagen beverage that comes in four flavors made with all-natural fruit juice. Each 12-ounce bottle provides 10 grams of bovine collagen peptides. It's sweetened with monk fruit extract, but does contain three grams of sugar from the juice flavoring.

Vital Proteins Collagen Water is offered as singles, four-packs and 12-packs, so you can test out which flavor you like best. The Strawberry Lemon, Lemon Slice and Blackberry Hibiscus flavors have 4.2/5 stars on the Vital Proteins website, and the Lemon Ginger flavor has 4.1/5 stars.

These beverages are gluten-free, dairy-free and paleo-friendly, with no artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors or additives. While they're more expensive than the other collagen supplements on our list ($2.99 per bottle), the pre-mixed, bottled form is convenient on the go.

What we like:

• 10 grams of collagen per serving
• Uses fruit juice for natural flavoring
• Convenient on-the-go pre-mixed form
• Subscribers save 15 percent and get free shipping

What to consider:

• About $3 per bottle, which is expensive compared with other collagen supplements
• Type of bovine collagen not listed

Best Capsule Collagen Supplement: Hum Nutrition Collagen Love

HUM Nutrition

Key features and specs:

• Form: Capsule
• Type of collagen: Hydrolyzed type I and III
• Source: Grass-fed, pasture-raised cows
• Dietary Considerations: Free of nuts, gluten, milk, eggs and fish
• Serving size: 3 capsules
• Amount of collagen per serving: 600 milligrams
• Protein per serving: N/A
• Serving size per container: 30
• Unflavored/Flavored? Unflavored

Why I picked it:

Hum Nutrition Collagen Love is a collagen capsule formulated to reduce signs of skin aging. These collagen pills contain a combination of collagen peptides, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is known to help retain water to help keep skin hydrated and also reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C is also included, since it's necessary for collagen production.

Reviewers on the Hum Nutrition site give Collagen Love 4.5/5 stars, and Amazon reviewers give it 4.4/5 stars (at the time of writing). Most say they’ve noticed hair, skin and nail improvements after two weeks to one month of using of the supplement. 

One reviewer named Nancy R. says, "I’ve definitely seen a major improvement with my hair with the Collagen Love. It’s become thicker and more wavy…something I did not expect. I’m also not losing as much hair when I shower."

Another reviewer on Amazon says, “I have definitely seen a difference with hydration and elasticity, tightening, so much so, I have continued using it for several months.”

The most common complaint is that some users haven't noticed a difference in their skin or hair; however, most users report positive results.

What we like:

• Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
• Third-party validated for quality and purity, and Clean Label Project Verified
• Free of common allergens like wheat, gluten, milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, shellfish and fish
• No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives

What to consider:

• Much lower collagen dose than other supplements on our list
• Three-capsule serving size may be a hassle for some

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It provides structure for your bones and helps provide support for skin, muscles and connective tissue. There are 28 types of collagen in the body, but type I is the type that’s most abundant when we're young.

As you age, your body's natural collagen production declines. The loss of collagen also means a loss of hyaluronic acid, which helps your skin cells hold on to water molecules. Replacing lost collagen with collagen supplements has been associated with improvements in skin, joints, hair and nails.

Ingestible collagen is sometimes referred to as collagen peptides, hydrolyzed collagen or collagen hydrolysate (amino acids), which are the broken down pieces of collagen that are actually ingestible. Your body cannot absorb whole collagen, which is why it goes through a process to be broken down into digestible form.

Related Post: The Best Supplements for Healthy Skin

Types of collagen

There are 28 types of collagen in the human body, but most fall into five main categories.

• Type I: Located in skin, bones, tendons and ligaments 
• Type II: Located in elastic cartilage
• Type III: Located in muscles, arteries and organs
  
• Type IV: Located in skin
• Type V: Located in corneas, skin, hair, placenta tissue

Collagen performs many vital functions in various systems, which include:

• In your skin: Promoting new cell growth, helping replace dead cells and providing strength and elasticity
• In your organs: Providing a protective covering
• In your blood: Promoting clotting

Scientists describe collagen as a building block, sort of like a protein brick-and-mortar for muscles, skin, connective tissue and more.

Which Foods are Sources of Collagen?

You can find foods that contain collagen-building amino acids in just about every part of the supermarket. Food sources include:

Animal sources

• Meat
• Poultry
• Fish
• Eggs
• Dairy
• Bone broth

Non-animal sources

• Soy
• Legumes (including beans, lentils and chickpeas)
• Leafy greens
• Whole grains
• Citrus fruits
• Tomatoes
• Berries

Additionally, the blue-green algae spirulina has amino acids including glycine and proline. Although you probably won't find it in the grocery aisle, it's available as a supplement at most health food stores.

Benefits of Collagen Supplements

To better understand the benefits of collagen supplements, it's important to know how they differ from supplements formulated to build muscle.

"Collagen protein is another dietary source of protein that's slightly different from a muscle building protein such as a plant-based protein or a whey protein," says Nastasi. "When you're taking a collagen supplement, it has more to do with health benefits that come with your skin, your joints, your ligaments, stuff like that."

Here are the main benefits of collagen supplementation:

• Hydration: Collagen can improve the hydration of the skin as well as its elasticity, and can decrease the appearance of wrinkles. It can also make skin more supple, smooth and firm.
• Joint support: Collagen can also benefit your tendons and bones. Increasing collagen intake can help reduce joint pain. Many people turn to collagen for joint support, as collagen can help reduce joint swelling, decrease joint pain and increase the mobility of the joints.
• Hair health: Your hair may benefit from collagen, too. Some studies have shown that collagen can help decrease hair breakage and even improve hair thickness when compared to placebo, though more research is needed to make a solid conclusion. 

Collagen Dosage

While several studies indicate that collagen supplements may help support skin, hair, nail, bone and joint health, there is no research that points to an exact dosage. The research mentioned above showed benefits from taking between 15–25 grams of collagen. Other research cites 2.5-15 grams of collagen.

Collagen supplements from brands such as Vital Proteins and BUBS Naturals contain a dosage of 20 grams of collagen peptides per serving. Many of the supplements we've featured here fall into the range of 10-11 grams per serving, and most products should provide a considerable collagen boost.

However, to see any positive effects, you’ll have to stay consistent. Most studies didn’t show measurable benefits until after at least 90 days of daily use.

Who Could Benefit From a Collagen Supplement?

Generally, anyone who's already following a healthy diet and would like to supplement their daily collagen intake can see benefits from taking a supplement. Collagen supplements can also help fill the gaps in your diet if you’re not eating many collagen-rich foods, such as chicken, bone broth and broccoli. Collagen can have beneficial effects for people in other situations, including:

• If you're looking to build muscle. Taking collagen peptide supplements could increase muscle mass, particularly as part of a weight-training regimen.
• If you want better skin, hair and nails. A 2014 study found that a daily dose of a liquid collagen supplement led to firmer skin and fewer wrinkles. Increased collagen can also promote thicker, stronger hair and nails.
• If you have digestive problems. Glycine and other amino acids found in collagen may reduce GI inflammation and improve gut health.
• If you're postmenopausal. Healthy levels of collagen can help the body counteract reduced bone density caused by hormonal changes following menopause.
• If you have rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Researchers have found that a daily 40-milligram dose of undenatured type II collagen may reduce inflammation and improve joint flexibility.

Remember, there's no difference or certain type of collagen for women or men. You'll want to choose the right collagen supplement for you based on dietary preferences, habits and preferred way to take collagen hydrolysate.

Who Shouldn’t Take Collagen Supplements?

Collagen has been proven to be very well tolerated without side effects for most people. However, it's typically not recommended for some people including:

• Vegans and vegetarians. Most collagen supplements are derived from animal proteins or bones. Vegan-friendly alternatives include plant-based supplements designed to boost your body's natural ability to produce collagen.
• People allergic to shellfish. Some marine collagen supplements include collagen derived from shellfish. Even if the label specifies non-shellfish sources, you might want to be cautious due to the risk of cross-contamination during production.
• People who keep kosher or observe a Halal diet. Collagen supplements can be tricky for the observant, with porcine collagen from pork or marine collagen from shellfish being the prime examples. Look for alternatives specifically labeled as kosher-friendly or Halal-friendly.

It's good practice to always consult your doctor before adding a new supplement to your routine, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or taking prescription medicine.

Is It Safe to Take Collagen Supplements During Pregnancy?

It all depends on the type of supplement. It's considered generally safe and beneficial to take collagen supplements while you're pregnant, with the exception of marine collagen due to elevated mercury levels in certain types of fish. Check with your primary care doctor or OB-GYN (or your pediatrician if you're breastfeeding) before taking collagen or any other supplements.

How to Choose The Best Collagen Supplement For You

With so many collagen supplements available, you're likely wondering which one is the best for you. It all comes down to personal preference.

Form

When it comes to collagen supplements and similar products, form has two meanings. One is the state of the ingredients:

• Peptides (hydrolyzed): The form most commonly used in supplements, broken down into small bits that are easier to digest and will dissolve in cold water
• Gel (gelatin): A partially hydrolyzed form of collagen that dissolves in hot water
• Raw (undenatured): A form of collagen that isn't processed or "pre-digested" like peptides or gelatin

The second type of form is the delivery system, or how you take it. It's usually powder, capsule or liquid, but sometimes a chewable. Although many forms of collagen are unflavored, you may find that you prefer a flavored option. You may also find that you prefer to have a ready-made liquid to drink instead of a powder that requires mixing.

Source

Those with allergies, especially to dairy, soy, shellfish or gluten, may need to pay special attention to the ingredient lists on collagen supplements to be sure they don’t contain any allergens that may cause a reaction.

The type of collagen source—either plant or animal—is another factor to consider. Many collagen supplements are bovine-sourced, and would not be ideal for vegans or vegetarians. 

Price

There are plenty of collagen supplements available to fit your dietary needs and preferred price point. The most important aspect to consider for any collagen supplement is the quality of the ingredients, which is something you won't want to cut corners on.

How We Chose the Best Collagen Supplements

For this guide, we compiled the top collagen supplements based on certifications and third-party testing, verified customer reviews and expert testimonials. Our picks for best collagen supplements also cover a range of options, including:

• Supplements in powder, liquid and capsule form
• Different amounts of collagen per serving
• Flavored and unflavored versions

We aim to include products that incorporate a wide variety of benefits and that fit many different lifestyles and dietary preferences. Learn more about our product review process.

Collagen Supplements FAQs

Is collagen better as a powder or pill?

The best form of collagen is the one that you will find easiest to take consistently. Some people prefer to mix a powder into their morning beverage while others prefer to take a pill. If you’re able to take it regularly and it aligns with your dietary needs or preferences, then that’s the best collagen for you.

Related Post: The Best Collagen Gummies

What does “hydrolyzed” mean?

Hydrolyzed collagen is collagen that has been broken down into the amino acids it's made up of, making it easier to digest and easier to dissolve in water. Peptides are a type of hydrolyzed collagen and gelatin is partially hydrolyzed, as opposed to undenatured (or raw) collagen.

Is it safe to take collagen and vitamin D supplements together?

You may have heard that vitamin D inhibits collagen production, but it's most likely OK for you to take collagen and vitamin D supplements together. Both collagen and vitamin D are beneficial for bone health. However, it’s best to check with your healthcare team before starting any supplement.

What's the difference between bovine collagen and marine collagen?

The main difference is the source. Bovine collagen is found in animals such as cows, yaks, antelopes and so on, while marine collagen is found in fish. Taken as collagen peptide supplements, each has been shown to help increase the body's production of different types of collagen—types I and III for bovine collagen and types I and II for marine collagen. 

How long does collagen take to start working?

Although collagen can boast many potential improvements in skin, hair, joints and nails, it isn’t a quick fix. It can take from eight weeks to six months of regular collagen use before you may start to notice improvements.

Does collagen help with wrinkles?

Collagen can help with wrinkles. It can improve the hydration, plumpness and elasticity of the skin, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and also help prevent new ones from forming.

Does collagen thicken hair?

Some studies have shown that those who take collagen have been found to have thicker hair.

Should I take collagen every day?

Yes, in order to see the best benefits from collagen supplementation, all brands recommend taking it every day. Especially because it can take a few months to note improvement in your hair, skin or nails, taking it consistently can lead to better outcomes.

Does collagen make you gain weight?

No, collagen should not make you gain weight.

What foods are high in collagen?

Foods that contain the highest amounts of collagen are found in the skins or hides, as well as the bones and other cartilage of pigs, cows, fish and poultry. A high-collagen substance that can be made from these materials is gelatin, which can be found in bone broth. Sardines can be a good source of collagen as typically the entire fish is consumed.

If you follow a vegan diet, you won't be able to get collagen from a supplement, as collagen hydrolysate supplements come from bovine, porcine, poultry and fish. So, you'll have to boost collagen production through diet. Vegan friendly foods that contain high amounts of vitamin C (such as citrus, berries and broccoli) and protein (such as legumes or tofu) can help the body use what collagen it does have in a better way.

Related Post: Best Vegan Multivitamins and Supplements

Does it matter what type of collagen you take?

The type of collagen you take does matter. Most commercially available collagen products contain types I and III. These are the two types that are mostly found in the skin, hair, nails and joints.

Is it O.K. to take vitamin C and collagen together?

It's safe to take collagen and vitamin C together. Vitamin C can help your body use collagen more effectively.

Final Thoughts

Collagen supplements are a generally safe supplement to take that can help with the aging process. As we age, we no longer produce as much collagen as we used to, which can lead to dry, thin, wrinkled skin and generalized joint discomfort and stiffness. Taking collagen supplements daily can help combat the aging process by replacing the lost collagen and improving the skin, hair, nails and joints.

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