Collagen is the newest buzzword in the beauty industry, touted as an all-natural anti-aging ingredient – but what exactly is it? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. Overall protein makes up 30% of the body, and about 90% of those stores is collagen.
As the building block for a variety of functions in the body, collagen gives structure to the body’s bones, joints, and particularly, the epidermal layer. High amounts of collagen maintain skin, hair, and nail health. Many people with joint stiffness find that consuming more collagen decreases such symptoms.
Collagen is not directly available in natural foods. The body actually synthesizes its own collagen with the help of essential amino acids from food like bone broth, meats, fish, legumes, and other protein-rich sources like eggs. Taking in more fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C also quickens the collagen-creation process.
There are as many as 16 types of collagen. Out of these, there are four main types: Type I, Type II, Type III, and Type IV. Each type provides specific functions. Type I supports skin health, Type II is for bones, joints, and cartilage, Type III maintains elasticity, and Type IV supports other connective tissue structures. About 80-90% of the body’s collagen stores call into one of the first three types.
Over time, collagen production decreases, leaving the skin vulnerable to sun damage, fine lines, and sagginess. Fortunately, collagen supplements exist to make up for this issue, prevent aging effects and optimizing overall health. Here are some of the best collagen supplements to try for anti-aging and beauty.
1. Ancient Nutrition KetoCOLLAGEN
With all the first three types of collagen, this Ancient Nutrition KetoCollagen powder is a fantastic healthy boost to your drink.
It’s ketogenic, with great superfoods like coconut MCT oil. Chock-full of important fats, this supplement increases satiety levels, leading to better weight maintenance.
This bovine-derived hydrolyzed collagen powder is free of lactose, gluten, and soy. It’s available in unique flavors like chocolate and chocolate chai, providing great taste, improved skin, joint, and gut health.
Customers enjoy the energy they feel when drinking this supplement, appreciating its thick, milkshake-like texture.
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2. BioSil
Most collagen supplements are made of meat or fish ingredients. Biosil is one of the few vegetarian options for collagen, using a vegan silicone and choline complex locked in plant-fiber pills.
It’s high in Ch-OSA, choline-stabilized OrthoSilicic Acid, which works to trigger the body's collagen creation while protecting already existing collagen stores.
It helps in improving weak nails and improving bone strength. It also works to produce elastin and keratin.
Each bottle has 30 servings, and upon taking this supplement regularly, many customers noticed drastic improvements in less fine lines, softer hair with more shine and volume.
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3. Glotrition Collagen
With luxurious design, this collagen supplement is a premium blend of collagen peptides, biotin, and hyaluronic acid.
These three components are important to the hydration and growth of hair, nails, and glowing skin.
Hyaluronic acid is especially added to conserve the hydration on the dermal layer by binding to water molecules.
Glotrition Collagen's taste is sweet but remains to be low in carbohydrates and calories, so it fits into any diet for weight management.
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4. Great lakes gelatin collagen hydrolysate
Collagen hydrolysate is a lab-made version of collagen dispersed into tiny particles that make it easier for the body to absorb.
Great Lakes provides a gelatin that’s fit for paleo and keto diets. Derived from pasture-raised, grass-fed beef, this product provides collagen in a highly concentrated amount suitable for efficient healing, fast digestion, and high levels of glycine and proline.
These two amino acids are great for reducing the pain of joints or bones. A lot of customers who used this product enjoy the ease in which it can be mixed with cold liquids, its lack of unusual flavoring, and its effect on thickening hair and lengthening eyelashes.
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5. Milieu Beauty Collagen Drink
Available in either pineapple or raspberry, this collagen-packed drink can make a difference for that natural beauty glow.
With 12,000 mg of collagen, as well as hyaluronic acid, and a dozen other active vitamins and minerals, this drink is more of a multivitamin pick-me-up.
The hydrolyzed bovine collagen is known for making skin plump, building up hair follicle structure, and improving joint.
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6. Mosbeau Collagen Plus 12000
Perfect for low-carbohydrate diet, this drink is free of sugar while still giving a full-bodied mango flavor. With 12,000 mg of collagen derived from fish, the supplement complements a pescatarian diet.
The collagen comes from Japan-made salmon eggs, providing a source of healthy protein. It also contains the coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant that fights free radicals and prevents the effects of aging.
With the addition of hyaluronic acid and elastin, the drink maintains skin elasticity, keeping it tight and preventing discoloration.
Stronger nails and healthier hair are other benefits involved in drinking Mosbeau Collagen Plus.
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7. Neocell Beauty Infusion
With an interesting formula of collagen, biotin, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, this powder formula easily dissolves in any beverage.
The ingredients all assist in improving skin hydration, reducing under-eye puffiness, and reducing any redness from skin conditions like rosacea.
While this specialized drink is on the pricier side, the 6000 mg of hydrolyzed collagen and other ingredients work well and safely. The powder is non-GMO and completely free of gluten and soy and has a great taste.
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8. Primal Kitchen Collagen Fuel
For people who prefer powdered collagen to add to their shakes, this collagen product is available in three unique flavors: Golden Turmeric, Chocolate Coconut, and Vanilla Coconut.
It also comes unflavored for those who like to throw in some collagen into meals without any extra taste. This powder is flexible for a variety of diets and lifestyles: it’s gluten-free, contains no dairy, whey, soy, or preservatives.
The powder itself provides a mighty 10,000 mg of collagen, both Type I and Type III. Customers who’ve tried Primal Kitchen Collagen Fuel appreciate the ease of consuming it with morning smoothies or coffee since it mixes smoothly into any liquid.
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9. Relumins Premium Collagen Blend
Available in four different flavors – blueberry, vanilla, pineapple, and multiflavored – this powdered drink mixture provides high-quality collagen. This premium collagen is combined with green tea extract for anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
By targeting inflammation, signs of aging are reduced. This blend includes CoQ10 and glutathione, other antioxidants, in addition to the antioxidants naturally occurring in green tea extract.
These components work together to improve any cell damage to the skin.
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10. Scientific Beauty Technology Liquid Collagen
If you want a convenient, on-the-go bottle of collagen, this product supplies 500 mg of collagen in a tablespoon.
It’s quick to intake and use in your daily life. This grape-flavored supplement also includes ingredients like panthenol, biotin, and vitamin B6.
Panthenol is a well-known vitamin used in skincare and cosmetic, known to moisturize skin and hair from the inside.
Biotin and vitamin B6 is important for repairing skin cells and restoring youthfulness.
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11. Shiseido The Collagen Drinks
Made in Japan, this supplement comes in the form of 50 mL bottles packed with marine-derived collagen and other beautifying vitamins.
Many customers found this drink incredible in scent and taste, improving nails and skin quite rapidly.
In one review, the customer appreciated Shiseido so much, they had been using it for three years.
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12. Simply Potent Multi Collagen
There are quite a few reasons why Multi Collagen is one of the best collagen supplements. Not only does this supplement contain multiple types of collagen, from Type I to Type X, it also gets its collagen from a variety of sources.
These hydrolyzed collagen pills come from bovine, eggshell, chicken, avian, and marine protein sources. With this blend, this product maximizes skin recovery, fights anti-aging, and increases collagen supply in the body naturally.
All sources are non-GMO and gluten-free, and the pills are lab-tested and approved by the FDA. Many customers find Multi Collagen to be good quality, fast-acting and have no negative odor or taste.
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13. Skinade
This award-winning bio-active collagen product was made for fast absorption. With claims of showing results in as little as a month, this collagen was extracted from marine.
For moisturization, increasing radiance and reducing fine lines, other ingredients include flaxseed oil, B vitamins, L-lysine, and MSM. Flaxseed oil has omega-3 and omega-6, great fatty acids and moisturizes skin and hair.
L-lysine is an amino acid that improves collagen utilization. MSM is a Sulphur that helps with constructing keratin and collagen within the body.
It’s available in two flavors: peach and mangosteen. Not only does this product aim to increase collagen, it also helps to naturally produce helpful skin-loving proteins within the body, like hyaluronic acid and keratin.
Many people can see improved hydration in their skin in at least 2 weeks, and more benefits the longer they use Skinade.
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14. SkinGlo
This high-end looking product has versions for both men and women. This supplement has 8,000 mg of collagen with the lowest weight possible for faster absorption.
Many have witnessed their dull complexion gradually becoming more hydrated, more supple, and fewer signs of aging in as little as 2 weeks.
Included is also skin-brightening vitamin C, bone-strengthening L-lysine, MSM, hyaluronic acid, as well as ceramides, which are compounds from wheat that protect collagen from breaking down.
The main aim of SkinGlo is to maximize collagen production in the body, so every ingredient goes into making the absorption rate 8 times faster than usual.
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15. Highly Absorbable Collagen + Vit C 90
With a great mixture of collagen and vitamin C, this supplement targets skin clarity and hydration. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is quite important in the synthesis of collagen.
It relieves from sun damage while fighting free radicals and other toxins. The 1500 mg of hydrolyzed collagen is bio-active, allowing it to be absorbed beneath the epidermal layer.
Many people experienced improved elasticity in their faces, with more supple skin and a healthy glow.
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16. Ultimate H.A. Formula
Another one of the best collagen supplements targeting those suffering from bone and joint pain is Ultimate H.A. formula.
With Type I, Type II, and Type III collagen along with hyaluronic acid, this supplement supports joint movement, allowing them to withstand more shock in high-intensity exercises.
This clinically tested product has helped people reduce knee pain, improve exercise and daily movement, as well as strengthen skin, making it smoother and firm.
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17. VB Program Super Collagen
This Korea-based collagen supplement comes in compact, 20-milliliter ampoules.
With a bright orange color and great tasting liquid, this little potion brightens complexion and reduces any effects of early aging, from discoloration to dry, thin skin.
This product celebrates returning moisture to the skin, with at least 3,000 mg of marine collagen per bottle.
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18. Vital proteins beef gelatin
This gelatin is a great, collagen-packed alternative to create your gummy candy or jello desserts. Extracted from pasture-raised, grass-fed cows, this gelatin augments a balanced diet.
The natural glycine it contains allows for a boost for the immune system and improves digestion.
Many customers who’ve used Vital Proteins love it for its lack of odor or taste, making it easy to consume alone or in recipes. After a few weeks of taking this supplement, there is a great difference in fine lines and nail growth, as well as a fantastic reduction in bone aches and pains, especially in those with previous joint injuries.
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19. Zeal Naturals Collagen Peptides
Popular amongst gym-goers, this protein powder contains collagen from grass-fed cows. The cows are pasture-raised in Argentina and Brazil, for high quality and organic product.
Collagen peptides are convenient, aimed towards solidifying joint stability and improving bone health. Many consumers found they feel reduced pain from old injuries and less crackling joints.
This non-GMO supplements include a variety of essential amino acids and is friendly for paleo, keto, and gluten-free diets.
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The 19 Best Collagen Supplements
Is it safe to take collagen supplements?
Because there are no known risks, some may experience unpleasant side effects in terms of digestion, like heartburn, a heavy feeling the stomach, and sometimes even diarrhea. These symptoms are not dangerous, however, and may depend on the person and the type of supplement. Many collagen companies try to improve the absorption of their supplements to reduce digestive discomfort. Some people may be allergic to marine-derived collagen, so it’s important to be aware of all the ingredients.
What is the best collagen supplement?
The best collagen supplement is subjective; it depends on your goals, preferred flavor, dietary restrictions, and how you like to take your collagen.
Although all of the collagen supplements are on this list for good reason, Vital Proteins is one of the best collagen supplements out there. As a renowned health and fitness company, Vital Proteins does provide high-grade collagen peptides. One reason this product is so effective is because it packs quite a high amount of collagen: 20,000 mg. Many people enjoy Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides for its role in muscle recovery and the ease in which they can incorporate it into meals or drinks.
Other honorable mentions from this list include NeoCell Beauty Infusion, Ancient Nutrition KetoCOLLAGEN, and Skinade. NeoCell is organic and has an effective mixture of vitamins. Ancient Nutrition is a renowned ketogenic product that is creative in its flavors and the use of superfoods. Skinade is a UK-lab tested product with the results of much research showing the efficacy of its ingredients.
Before purchasing any collagen supplement, doing research on the brand's ingredient sources, type of collagen used, and the amount of collagen is important in finding the best supplement for your needs.
What are the benefits of taking collagen supplements?
Collagen supplements have several beneficial effects on the body. Because collagen provides support to many structures like the dermal layer, the joints between bones, tendons, and ligaments, taking collage can improve these functions. Many people may notice less cramping or stiffness when bending a limb, for example. Collagen is great for reducing the risk of osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle over time.
Collagen can also slow down the impact of aging, reducing fine lines, dry skin, brittle nails, and thinning hair. The elasticity of the skin is improved, due to collagen holding skin cells together more tightly. Some evidence suggests that since collagen is a type of protein, it may help with increasing muscle mass, combined with a healthy diet and regular workout plan.
How much collagen should I take daily?
To figure out your recommended daily intake of collagen, it’s best to talk to your doctor first. Usually, each supplement gives a serving size recommendation that should be followed. The amount of collagen to take for specific benefits depends. Some sources say a minimum of 5,000 mg of collagen to see general results. For reducing bone or joint pain, at least 8,000-12,000 mg of collagen can make a difference. It really depends on many factors, like body weight, type of collagen, and other ingredients involved.
Can collagen make you gain weight?
No, the chance of collagen increasing one’s weight is unlikely. Most collagen products tend to be low calorie, like many in this list of best collagen supplements. In some cases, collagen can help maintain weight, due to its satiating effect. Collagen is a protein, so it increases fulling and satisfaction. Some collagen comes in tasty low-sugar drinks which can quell a craving.
Many of the best collagen supplements can also fight inflammation with its included antioxidants. Inflammation is one of the main causes of weight gain, so collagen then can prevent weight gain. While the digestive effects of collage supplements differ from person to person, collagen does have a positive impact on gut bacteria. This optimizes the digestive system.
When should I start taking collagen?
Your twenties are the peak of collagen production in the body. After around the age of 25, the natural production of collagen begins to slow down gradually. Less and less collagen is produced as one approaches 50 years of age. Anytime in this range would be appropriate to start taking collagen.
One’s age does not affect the effectiveness of taking a collagen supplement. You can take collagen at any time, no matter how old you are. However, it is unnecessary to do so during the years in which your body is already making the most collagen it can possibly product.
How can I rebuild collagen in my face?
In addition to taking one of the best collagen supplements, you can also stimulate collagen in your face. There are facial massages that can tighten up facial skin, making it supple and improve blood circulation. Some skincare provides collagen, but collagen works better from the inside out. It can’t be absorbed through the skin. Other procedures like lasers and fillers can trigger more collagen production in the face directly. Using sunscreen regularly can also protect the existing collagen.
What is the best time to take collagen?
If taken with food, there is a risk that stomach acid could break down the collagen. For the most efficient absorption, it's best to take a collagen supplement about 2-3 hours after eating. That way, it can have a smooth passage through the intestines. Many people choose to taken it in the morning but ingesting collagen at night before bed is recommended. The natural repair process of sleep helps collagen become fully absorbed and implemented into the body. Depending on the supplement, you could see the full results of collagen anywhere from 1-4 months.
