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Collagen supplements may help support skin, hair, and joint health. A person can order collagen online in a few different forms. With regular use, these supplements may promote better skin and joint health.
This article describes what collagen supplements are in more detail, their benefits, and how to choose a supplement. It also reviews some products that a person may consider buying.
- Best overall collagen supplement: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides | Skip to review
- Best for a variety of flavors: Care/Of Collagen Packs | Skip to review
- Best hypoallergenic supplement: HUM Collagen | Skip to review
- Best for different ages: Dose & Co Collagen Creamers | Skip to review
- Best keto- and paleo-friendly supplement: Reserveage Nutrition Collagen Booster | Skip to review
- Best for hair and nail growth: Menolabs Goddess Glow Beauty Collagen | Skip to review
- Best for digestive health: Zhou Nutrition Collagen Peptides | Skip to review
- Best plant extracts: Thorne Collagen Plus | Skip to review
- Best marine collagen supplement: Agent Nateur Holi (Mane) Supplements | Skip to review
- Best for post-workout support: Kayo Skin Perfect Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen PLUS | Skip to review
- Best liquid collagen supplement: Aura Inner Beauty Marine Collagen | Skip to review
- Best for pre-portioned sachets: Vida Glow Natural Marine Collagen | Skip to review
- Best odorless and tasteless supplement: Shore Magic Collagen Powder | Skip to review
- Best collagen capsules: HECH Caviar Collagen Capsules | Skip to review
- Most types of collagen in one supplement: Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein | Skip to review
Medical News Today’s methodology
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe and high-quality ingredients that are clearly labeled. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dosage: MNT chooses products that must clearly state the supplement dosage.
- Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a safe dosage.
- Third-party testing: MNT chooses products that must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Available certificate of analysis: MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following receipt of its third-party lab results.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and was correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best overall collagen supplement: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- List price: $47
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I and III
Two scoops of this product contain 20 grams (g) of collagen, and the company recommends taking 1–2 scoops daily.
It states that the supplement promotes hair, skin, and joint health, and it contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. Vital Proteins also includes a wide range of essential amino acids in this formula.
It is also Whole30 approved, paleo-friendly, and it does not contain dairy or gluten.
Pros
- contains two types of collagen
- easy to use in hot or cold water
- flavored and unflavored options
- free from dairy and gluten
Cons
- can be hard to dissolve, according to reviews
- unsuitable for vegans
Best for a variety of flavors: Care/of Collagen Packs
- List price: $24–32
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I and III
Care/of sells collagen and other supplements online and offers online consultations. A person can fill out a form about what they are looking for, and Care/of gives product recommendations.
The company’s collagen packs are available in these flavors:
- lemon passion fruit
- matcha
- vanilla oat creamer
A person can also choose an unflavored option.
The packs contain grass-fed bovine collagen. Care/of also sells vegetarian collagen made from eggshell membranes. This comes in capsules and is not vegan.
Pros
- free from dairy and gluten
- multiple flavors
- vegetarian option
- may help to strengthen nails
- may support skin hydration
Cons
- not vegan
- requires a subscription
- flavored options cost more than unflavored
Best hypoallergenic supplement: HUM Collagen
- List price: $40 for 90 capsules
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: capsules
- Types: I and III
HUM says it produces sustainable, hypoallergenic collagen supplements that do not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs), gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.
It adds that it tests the quality of all its products in-house and through independent labs.
These collagen capsules also contain vitamin C and other antioxidants that may help promote skin elasticity and firmness. HUM Nutrition states on its website that its collagen supplement can help reduce the effect of free radicals and visible signs of aging.
HUM recommends taking three capsules a day with food.
Pros
- contain vitamin C and hyaluronic acid
- free from gluten and dairy
- no artificial sweeteners
Cons
- no flavor options
- not vegan
- unsuitable for anyone with a rice bran allergy
Best for different ages: Dose & Co Collagen Creamer
- List price: $24.99 (vanilla, 12 oz)
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I and III
A person must add this creamer to hot or cold drinks. Each serving contains 10 g of collagen.
The creamer comes in two flavors: vanilla and caramel. They also produce a dairy-free formula, which is made with coconut milk powder.
Dose & Co states that the creamer can stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis in skin cells. This may improve the appearance of a person’s skin. It may also improve hair thickness, nail growth and strength, and reduce the appearance of fine lines in 4 weeks.
This claim comes from the results of a Consumer Perception Study involving 192 people ages 19–77 who used Dose & Co collagen for 28 days. Other results this study produced showed that:
- 90% of participants saw improvements in skin quality
- 91% of participants had stronger and longer nails
- and 76% of participants claimed their hair was thicker
This shows that this collagen product may suit people across a wide range of ages.
However, the company does not provide access to this study.
Pros
- dairy-free option available
- free from soy and GMOs
- available in different flavors
Cons
- not vegan or vegetarian
- dairy-free option unsuitable for anyone with a coconut allergy
- the company does not provide access to its consumer studies
Best keto- and paleo-friendly supplement: Reserveage Nutrition Collagen Booster
- List price: $59.99
- Source: BioCell Collagen
- Form: capsules
- Types: II
This contains BioCell Collagen (an ingredient unique to the brand), hyaluronic acid, and Reserveage’s Pro-Longevity Factors blend, which includes organic red grapes, Japanese knotweed, and red wine antioxidants.
The manufacturer claims that this supplement supports skin hydration and healthy joints.
It contains chicken extract, meaning it is unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans.
It suggests taking 1–2 capsules per day, with or without food.
Pros
Cons
- unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans
- more expensive than other capsules
Best for hair and nail growth: Menolabs Goddess Glow Beauty Collagen
- List price: $32.99
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I and III
This company produces health products to support females during menopause. Although Menolabs states this product is for females, it contains similar ingredients to many other collagen supplements.
This product contains grass-fed bovine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. It aims to help the skin appear brighter and support the joints. It may also stimulate nail and hair growth.
The manufacturer recommends adding one or two scoops with 8 ounces (oz) of liquid. A person can use the powder at any time they want. Each serving provides 20 g of collagen.
It is unflavored, and each pouch contains around 14 servings.
Pros
- unflavored
- uses grass-fed collagen
- suitable for hot or cold drinks
- may improve skin hydration and nail strength
- a women’s health researcher and menopause expert formulated the product
Cons
- reviewers state it has an unpleasant flavor
- fewer servings than other powders
- may be less cost-effective than other brands
- has no specific ingredients to help ease menopause symptoms
- unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans
Best for digestive health: Zhou Nutrition Collagen Peptides
- List price: around $30
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I and III
Zhou Nutrition offers this hormone-free powder that contains bovine collagen to support nail and skin health. It also claims to improve gut health and joint flexibility in males and females.
The supplement uses hydrolyzed collagen, which the company writes produces smaller protein molecules that can be easier for the body to absorb. Zhou Nutrition states these smaller molecules can also soothe the digestive tract.
People should have one scoop daily with or without a meal. Each serving provides 11 g of collagen.
Pros
- holds
Good Manufacturing Processes (GMP) verification - may help skin, joint, and digestive health
- gluten- and hormone-free
- contains a range of amino acids
- suitable for use in hot and cold drinks, smoothies, shakes, and food
Cons
- some customers did not like the taste
- some buyers found it clumped in cold drinks
- offers lower collagen dose per serving than other products
Best plant extracts: Thorne Collagen Plus
- List price: $60 for 30 scoops
- Source: bovine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I and III
This product contains a range of plant extracts alongside collagen peptides. This includes peach extract, nicotinamide riboside, and a black and red currant polyphenol blend.
It contains a natural passion berry flavor and is dairy, gluten, and soy-free.
According to Thorne’s website, this collagen powder can improve skin, hair, and nail health within four weeks. Afterward, people may also notice a reduced appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
The manufacturer recommends adding one scoop with 12 oz of water every day. Each serving offers 13 g of collagen.
Pros
- free of dairy, gluten, and soy
- natural flavors and colors
- suitable for signs of skin aging
Cons
- unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans
- some buyers claim it has an unpleasant taste
- the flavor may not work well in certain beverages like coffee
Best marine collagen supplement: Agent Nateur Holi (Mane) Supplements
- List price: $99 for 30 scoops
- Source: marine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I, II, III, and IV
This product contains marine collagen, derived from the scales of wild-caught, deep-sea fish. The manufacturers say these fish are kosher and non-GMO.
It also contains pearl powder, a type of calcium, which the company says helps stimulate collagen production.
Agent Nateur states that the product promotes hair, skin, and nail health.
People should take one scoop of this powder with any raw food or drink, including coffee, smoothies, sauces, desserts, and dressings.
Pros
- odorless and almost tasteless
- may benefit skin, hair, and nails
- contains all four types of collagen
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians as it contains fish
- some reviewers state that their skin has breakouts since using this product
Best for post-workout support: Kayo Skin Perfect Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen PLUS
- List price: $46 for 14 scoops
- Source: marine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I
This collagen supplement contains wild-caught marine collagen which the manufacturers claim strengthens hair, skin, nails, joints, and muscles. They also say it is suitable for post-workout support.
Other ingredients include:
- Hyaluronic acid and phytoceramides: These ingredients may help to improve skin moisture and texture, and may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Antioxidants and silica: These ingredients may help protect collagen that is already present in the body and enhance the skin’s ability to make more.
It is free from gluten, dairy, sugar, soy, and preservatives. It is non-GMO and sustainably sourced.
A person should take 1 scoop of this powder with 8–16 fluid ounces (fl oz) of water or tea.
Pros
- may benefit hair, skin, nails, muscles, and joints
- does not contain sugar, gluten, dairy, or soy
- many reviews on the Kayo website say it tastes nice
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and some vegetarians due to the marine collagen
- one customer review mentions plastic packaging
Best liquid collagen supplement: Aura Inner Beauty Marine Collagen
- List price: $62 (11.8 fl oz)
- Source: marine collagen
- Form: liquid
- Types: I
This coconut-flavored supplement contains hydrolyzed marine collagen. It also contains organic flavorings, including coconut, passionfruit, wildberry, and hibiscus.
The product is made in Canada and is free from gluten, artificial flavors, and artificial colors.
This supplement is a liquid formula. The company recommends a person mix 2 teaspoons with a beverage of their choice every day. They also say a person can take up to 4 teaspoons a day if they wish to see faster results.
Pros
- the company states a person can take more than the usual dose to see faster results
- some individuals may find a liquid supplement easier
- positive reviews comment on good taste and improvements in hair, skin, and nail health
- available in two sizes
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and some vegetarians due to the marine collagen
- some reviewers comment on a fishy taste and smell
Best for pre-portioned sachets: Vida Glow Natural Marine Collagen
- List price: $50 for 30 sachets
- Source: marine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I
This supplement from Vida Glow comes in preportioned sachets for convenience. One packet contains 30 sachets.
The collagen is derived from fish, which the company states goes through a natural hydrolyzation process. The supplement contains only natural marine collagen. The flavored varieties contain blueberries or pineapple, and natural sweeteners, in addition to collagen.
It is available in five flavors: Original, blueberry, mango, peach, and pineapple.
Vida Glow recommends a person mix the sachet with a drink and to take the right amount for their age group. These recommendations are:
- Ages 25–35: one sachet a day
- Ages 36–45: two sachets a day
- Ages 45+: three sachets a day
Pros
- provides preportioned sachets for convenience
- provides dosage guidance for different age groups
- simple ingredients
- available in 5 flavors
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians due to the marine collagen
- some reviewers mention having skin reactions and breakouts
Best odorless and tasteless supplement: Shore Magic Collagen Powder
- List price: $120 for a 30-day supply
- Source: marine collagen
- Form: powder
- Types: I, II, III, and IV
This odorless and tasteless collagen supplement contains just one ingredient: hydrolyzed marine collagen from wild fish skins. The company states that this collagen is kosher, halal, and GMP.
It is free from additives, synthetics, fillers, binders, preservatives, and artificial ingredients.
The company recommends a serving size of 10 grams, which they state is approximately 2 scoops. A person can mix this into a drink, smoothie, or yogurt.
Pros
- only contains one ingredient
- free from additives, synthetics, fillers, binders, preservatives, and artificial ingredients
- the company states the formula is odorless and flavorless
- many positive reviews mention being able to see a positive effect on skin and nails
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians due to the marine collagen
- fairly expensive
- no negative reviews on the company website which Shore Magic may have filtered out
Best collagen capsules: HECH Caviar Collagen Capsules
- List price: $55 for 120 capsules
- Source: marine collagen
- Form: capsules
- Types: no information provided
These marine-derived collagen capsules also contain vitamins A, C, D, and E. Additionally, it contains caviar extract.
The capsules contain gelatin so are unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians. They may also contain traces of milk, soy, wheat, and egg.
The company state that one serving size is four capsules.
Pros
- also contains vitamins A, C, D, and E for added benefits
- some individuals may prefer to take capsules rather than a powder
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians due to gelatin and fish sources
- may contain milk, egg, wheat, and soy
- a person must take 4 capsules as 1 serving size
- no reviews available to view on the company website
Most types of collagen in one supplement: Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein
- List price: $59.95 (28.38 oz)
- Source: beef, chicken, fish, and fermented eggshell
- Form: powder
- Types: I, II, III, V, and X
According to the company, this supplement contains five different types of collagen. This collagen comes from beef, chicken, fish, and fermented eggshell membranes. Other key ingredients include SBO probiotics and vitamin C.
There are five different flavors to choose from, including unflavored, vanilla, chocolate, strawberry lemonade, and a Brain Boost Vanilla flavor, which contains added Ashwagandha root and leaf extract, cucumber lime, and cold brew. The Brain Boost version also has 10 types of collagen, not just 5.
The product is free from gluten, dairy, soy, grains, and nuts. It is also suitable for those on keto and paleo diets.
The company recommends a person add a scoop to 8 oz of water, coffee, or a smoothie. They also suggest adding a scoop to pancakes, oatmeal, or cookies.
Pros
- contains 5 different types of collagen (Brain Boost version has 10)
- more affordable in comparison to competitors
- 6 flavors, including unflavored
- free from many allergens
- suitable for those following keto and paleo diets
Cons
- unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians
- some reviewers have stated that it has a strong taste
- some reviewers state that it does not dissolve well
Collagen refers to a group of related proteins in the human body. The proteins make up a
- skin
- joints
- cartilage
- tendons
Collagen supplements usually come as oral pills, tablets, powders, or capsules. Liquid varieties are also available.
There are 28 types of collagen, but supplements will typically include four
- Type I: This is the most common type, which is present in all connective tissues. It is flexible and provides resistance to stretching, force, and tension.
- Type II: This type is in the joints and discs between the vertebrae. It helps to provide pressure resistance.
- Type III: This type is a main component of the reticular fibers in the skin and blood vessels. It is present in high amounts during wound healing.
- Type IV: This type of collagen is a mesh that forms part of the structure of the kidneys, inner ear, and the lens of the eyes.
When a person takes collagen supplements orally, they may promote health and healing in the skin and joint health.
Skin health
In a
It must be noted that the study included fewer than 80 participants who were all female and used only Elasten supplements. The research was also funded by the same company that manufactures Elasten. As a result, the findings may not be applicable across all collagen supplements or people.
This collagen supplement also included other ingredients, such as acerola fruit extract, vitamin C, zinc, vitamin E, and biotin. The placebo did not contain these nutrients. The additional ingredients in the collagen supplements may have led to the benefits that scientists discovered in the study rather than the collagen alone being responsible.
Another
Joint health
Collagen supplements may help keep the joints healthy and improve their health over time.
Although the
With this in mind, a person should look for products with third-party testing. Companies, such as U.S. Pharmacopeia and NSF International, provide purity and quality control testing for different supplement brands.
People can also explore online reviews of the company and the products it offers. However, these reviews are anecdotal, meaning they only apply to some people.
Before ordering any supplement, an individual should consult a doctor to ensure it will not interfere with their current medications or any underlying health conditions.
Vegan collagen
Most collagen comes from bovine hide, so it is unsuitable for people following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. While some vegetarian collagen supplements are available, those following a vegan lifestyle may want to check that the supplements do not use animal products.
Most of the supplements people think are vegan collagen are actually collagen boosters or collagen builders. They do not contain any collagen. Instead, they have nutrients that may support collagen synthesis, so they may not produce the same effects as supplements in the studies.
Furthermore, scientists have discovered a way to produce vegan collagen using bacteria and the yeast strain Pichia pastoris, though there are currently no commercially available products on the market.
The table below compares the products in this article on key features:
Supplement form | Collagen source | Types | Price | Pro | Con | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vital Proteins | powder | bovine collagen | I and III | $47 | has flavored and unflavored options | may be difficult to dissolve |
Care/of | powder | bovine collagen | I and III | $24–$32 | free from dairy and gluten | requires a subscription |
HUM Nutrition | Capsules | bovine collagen | I and III | $40 for 90 capsules | no artificial sweeteners | not suitable for anyone with a rice bran allergy |
Dose & Co | powder | bovine collagen | I and III | $24.99–$29.99 | free from soy and GMOs | not suitable for those with a coconut allergy |
Reserveage Nutrition | capsules | BioCell collagen | II | $41.99 for 60 capsules $74.99 for 120 capsules | keto- and paleo-friendly | more expensive than other capsules |
Menolabs | powder | bovine collagen | I and III | around $30 | a women’s health researcher and menopause expert formulated the product | fewer servings than other powders |
Zhou Nutrition | powder | bovine collagen | I and III | around $30 | holds | offers lower collagen dose per serving than other products |
Thorne | powder | bovine collagen | I and III | $60 for 30 scoops | suitable for signs of skin aging | the flavor may not work well in certain beverages like coffee |
Agent Nateur | powder | marine collagen | I, II, III, and IV | $99 for 30 scoops | may be beneficial for skin, hair, and nails | not suitable for vegans due to marine collagen |
Kayo | powder | marine collagen | I | $46 for 14 scoops | free from sugar, dairy, gluten, and soy | not suitable for vegans due to marine collagen |
Aura Inner Beauty | liquid | marine collagen | I | $28 for 100 ml $62 for 350 ml | available in two sizes | some reviewers mention a fishy taste and smell |
Vida Glow | powder | marine collagen | I | $50 for 30 sachets | available in three flavors | some reviewers mention having skin reactions |
Shore Magic | powder | marine collagen | I, II, III, and IV | $120 for a 30-day supply | odorless and flavorless formula | price higher than other brands |
HECH | capsules | marine collagen | no information provided | $55 for 120 capsules | also contains vitamins A, C, D, and E | unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans |
Ancient Nutrition | powder | beef, chicken, fish, and fermented eggshell membrane | I, II, III, V, and X | $52.95 for 45 servings | contains five different types of collagen | unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians |
Side effects of collagen supplements are not common. However, anyone with sensitivities or allergies should check the product labeling carefully.
Some additional ingredients can include:
- eggs
- gelatin
- shellfish
- dairy
If a person consumes something that they are sensitive to it can cause digestive side effects, such as bloating.
It is best to consult a physician before taking a collagen supplement. It is also important to note that supplements are not substitutes for a balanced and nutritious diet.
Collagen may not be the right or best choice for everyone. It also should not replace treatment or recommendations from a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.
Alternatives for collagen may depend on a person’s reasons for its use. An individual wishing to improve their skin care may want to look at moisturizing creams and other products that promote skin health.
Those looking to promote joint health may want to speak with a doctor about their concerns, as they may find other supplements that support the joints.
In a 2019 study, researchers identified several
- beef
- bone broth
- fish
- chicken
- pork
- prepared meats
A
Below are answers to common questions about collagen supplements.
Do collagen supplements really work?
A 2019 literature review that included 11 studies involving 805 people found that supplemental collagen helps improve skin elasticity, hydration, and collagen density. It may also be useful for wound healing.
A 2021 literature review also found collagen supplements beneficial for joint health.
Confirming these benefits and exploring the full effects requires further research.
How long does it take for collagen supplements to work?
Studies show that people can see results from collagen supplements in
Does collagen make a person gain weight?
While the evidence is limited, weight gain is not a known effect of collagen supplements.
A
How do I choose the best collagen supplement?
People may consider the following before buying collagen supplements:
- the form
- the price
- ingredients
- testing processes
- how and when to use
People should prioritize products that have gone through third-party testing ensuring the product does not have any unlisted or unsafe ingredients.
What is the most effective collagen to take?
Collagen can be effective for different health concerns, but it also depends on the type of product a person chooses. For example, a
What is the best and healthiest collagen?
People looking for healthy collagen supplements may look for a product free of hormones and artificial sweeteners. Those who follow a gluten-free diet may also choose supplements without this ingredient.
People can also consider collagen supplements that offer a range of essential amino acids and or use collagen peptides, as these may be easier for the body to digest.
Collagen supplements may help promote skin and joint health. They may also offer other health effects, but there is not enough evidence that supports their use.
These products typically come in capsule or powdered forms and usually contain collagen from bovine or other animal or fish sources. Vegetarian and vegan alternatives are available as collagen boosters or builders. However, these do not contain collagen — their ingredients may help support collagen production.
Before starting any new supplement, a person should talk with a doctor as they may recommend alternative solutions to help address their health concerns.