Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the many potential health and beauty benefits they offer. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and is found in the bones, muscles, skin, and tendons. It provides structure and strength to the body. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to common signs of aging like wrinkles, joint pain, and weakened bones and muscles.
Taking a collagen supplement can help restore collagen levels and provide associated benefits. When looking for a quality collagen supplement, it is important to consider the source of collagen (bovine, marine, or chicken), the form it comes in (powder, pills, gummies), and any additional ingredients. This article will explore the top 7 best collagen supplements on the market this year.
- Best Collagen Supplement for Skin: Sports Research Collagen Powder
- Best Collagen Supplement for Muscle Growth: Thorne Collagen Plus
- Most Popular Collagen Supplement: Vital Protein Collagen
- Best Collagen Supplement for Healthy Hair: Sports Research Collagen Powder
- Best Budget Collagen Supplement: Sports Research Collagen Powder
- Best Collagen Supplement for Aging: Thorne Collagen Plus
- Best Collagen Supplement for Joints and Bones: Thorne Collagen Fit
1. Sports Research Collagen Peptides Powder
Sports Research Collagen Peptides Powder is a collagen supplement designed to support radiant skin, hair, nails, joints and muscles. It provides 11g of highly absorbable collagen peptides per serving.
This formula contains collagen peptides sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine. It delivers amino acids to strengthen skin elasticity, increase hair growth, reduce joint inflammation and improve muscle repair after exercise. Each scoop also includes 10g of protein.
Sports Research Collagen Powder mixes easily into smoothies, coffee, water and more with neutral flavor and texture. It can be used as a daily protein drink or post-workout recovery supplement. The formula is paleo, keto, non-GMO and contains no artificial additives.
Potential side effects are low but may include mild digestive upset. The recommended dosage is 1 scoop (11g) per day. Benefits become noticeable after consistent daily use for 3-4 weeks.
Sports Research Collagen Peptides Powder stands out for its high collagen content, protein boost, and absorption-enhancing hydrolyzed formula. It’s affordably priced at around $0.70 per serving, making it a cost-effective collagen option.
2. Thorne Collagen Plus
Thorne Collagen Plus is a nutritional supplement powder designed to support skin, hair, and nail health using collagen peptides, plant extracts, and nicotinamide riboside. This passion fruit flavored formula provides targeted nourishment to enhance beauty from within.
Collagen Plus contains five key ingredients including collagen peptides, MitoHeal blend, HydroPeach ceramides, nicotinamide riboside, and trimethylglycine. Collagen peptides provide amino acids to strengthen the skin’s hydration, elasticity, and texture. MitoHeal, is a patented currant extract, reduces wrinkles and age spots. HydroPeach ceramides increases moisture retention. Nicotinamide riboside boosts NAD+ for cellular repair. Trimethylglycine aids the methylation.
Together, these ingredients work synergistically to hydrate, plump, and brighten skin while smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen Plus supports collagen formation, repairs UV damage, evens skin tone, and protects from environmental stressors. It also promotes stronger nails, thicker hair, and joint comfort.
Potential side effects are mild but may include stomach upset or skin irritation. The recommended dosage is one scoop per day mixed into water or smoothies. It may take 4-12 weeks to see noticeable improvements in skin, hair, and nails.
Collagen Plus stands out for its research-backed ingredients, hydrolyzed collagen from grass-fed bovine, and pleasant taste. It provides clinical strength skin nourishment without harsh additives. While not the cheapest collagen supplement, Collagen Plus offers excellent value at around $1 per serving.
3. Vital Protein Collagen Peptides Powder
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder is a premium collagen supplement that provides 20g of highly absorbable collagen peptides per serving. It also contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for additional collagen support.
The collagen peptides in Vital Proteins come from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine sources. This makes them easily digested and rapidly absorbed by the body to improve skin, hair, nails, joints, muscles and more. The formula also includes 100% DV of vitamin C which aids natural collagen production, plus 80mg of hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin and cushion joints.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder mixes odorless and flavorless into any hot or cold liquid. It can be added to coffee, smoothies, water and more with no taste. It’s paleo, Whole30 approved and contains no added sugars. The scoop-free canister provides measured collagen servings in tablespoons.
Potential side effects are rare but may include mild stomach discomfort. The recommended dosage is one serving (20g) daily. It may take 2-4 weeks to notice benefits for skin, hair, nails, and joints from consistent use.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder stands out for its very high collagen content, bonus joint and skin-supporting nutrients, and exceptional mixability. It’s more expensive than average collagen powders but provides excellent value at around $1.50 per serving.
4. Thorne Collagen Fit
Thorne Collagen Fit is an unflavored collagen powder that contains collagen peptides, nicotinamide riboside, and betaine. It is designed to support joint health, build lean muscle, and enhance cellular energy and repair.
Collagen Fit provides 15g of collagen peptides per serving derived from grass-fed bovine sources. The collagen peptides deliver amino acids to strengthen bones, muscles, tendons, and skin. Nicotinamide riboside (125mg) boosts NAD+ levels for cellular metabolism and vitality. Betaine (50mg) aids methylation to support collagen and NR function.
Together, these ingredients promote joint comfort, faster muscle recovery, increased lean mass and endurance for athletes and active individuals. Collagen Fit also enhances skin, hair and nail condition. The unflavored formula mixes easily into smoothies, coffee, or water.
Potential side effects are low but may include mild digestive upset. The recommended dosage is 1 scoop daily. It can take 2-3 months to experience the full benefits for joint health, performance, and physique goals. Collagen Fit is NSF Certified for Sport.
Collagen Fit stands out for its high 15g collagen dosage, bonus cellular energy ingredients, and ultra-pure formula safe for competitive athletes. Though not cheap, Collagen Fit provides strong value at around $1.10 per serving for hardcore competitors.
5. Live Conscious Collagen Peptides Powder
Live Conscious Collagen Peptides Powder is a rejuvenating collagen supplement that supports skin, hair, nail, and joint health. It provides a potent dose of easily absorbed collagen peptides.
This formula contains hydrolyzed collagen peptides sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine. The collagen peptides deliver amino acids that help strengthen skin elasticity, stimulate hair growth, reduce joint pain, and improve nail strength. It supports a more youthful, vibrant appearance.
Live Conscious Collagen Powder has a mild natural flavor that blends smoothly into water, juices, coffee, teas and smoothies. It contains no added sugars, fillers or preservatives. The collagen is gently hydrolyzed for easy digestion and rapid absorption.
Potential side effects are low but may include mild stomach discomfort. The recommended dosage is 1-2 scoops (10-20g) daily. Benefits become noticeable after consistent use for 4-6 weeks.
Live Conscious Collagen Peptides stands out for its high-quality grass-fed bovine collagen source and pure, additive-free formula. It costs around $1.20 per serving, providing good value for a clean and effective collagen supplement.
6. Ancient Nutrition Collagen Powder Protein with Probiotics
Ancient Nutrition Collagen Powder provides collagen protein from four real food sources along with probiotics to benefit skin, joints, gut health and more. This formula contains hydrolyzed collagen types 1, 2, 3, 5 and 10 sourced from grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, wild fish and eggshell membrane. It delivers a spectrum of collagen peptides to strengthen hair, skin, nails, bones and muscles while improving digestive function.
Ancient Nutrition Collagen Powder also includes 4 billion CFU of probiotics and 200% DV vitamin C for gut health and collagen support. It mixes easily into liquids hot or cold. The formula is non-GMO, gluten/grain free and contains no added sugars.
Potential side effects are low but may include mild bloating initially when introducing probiotics. The recommended dosage is 2 scoops daily. Benefits become noticeable after consistent use for 4-6 weeks.
Ancient Nutrition Collagen Powder stands out for its multi-collagen blend from whole food sources. It costs around $1.50 per serving, providing good value for a clean, high-quality collagen supplement.
7. Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Complex
Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Complex provides a comprehensive collagen supplement in a convenient capsule form. It supports skin, hair, nails, bones, joints and gut health.
This formula contains a blend of hydrolyzed collagen peptides sourced from bovine, marine, chicken and eggshell. It supplies collagen types I, II, III, V and X to provide full-body collagen benefits. The capsules also include Digeseb for enhanced collagen absorption.
By delivering a spectrum of bioavailable collagen peptides, Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen stimulates collagen renewal to improve skin elasticity, thicken hair, strengthen nails, ease joint discomfort and support intestinal health.
The capsules are easy to swallow at any time of day. The non-GMO, gluten-free formula contains no hormones, dairy or artificial additives. It’s suitable for both women and men seeking to boost collagen levels.
Side effects are unlikely but may include mild digestive upset initially. The recommended dosage is 2 capsules daily. Results become noticeable after consistent use for 6-8 weeks.
Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Complex stands out for its diverse hydrolyzed collagen blend in convenient capsule form. It costs approximately $0.60 per serving, providing good collagen support at an affordable price.
What are the Benefits of taking a Collagen Supplement?
There are several key benefits associated with taking a collagen supplement such as improving skin health, bone strength, strengthens nails, improves hair health, improved muscle development and it aids in recovery. While those are the common benefits, there are many additional primary and secondary benefits that result as a byproduct.
- Skin health: Improves skin elasticity and hydration, leading to reduced wrinkles, improved texture, and firmer skin
- Nail quality: Strengthens nails making them grow faster and become less brittle
- Hair health: Thickens and stimulates hair growth, reducing hair loss
- Joint health: Supports joint health by increasing cartilage production and reducing inflammation
- Bone density: Strengthens bones and helps prevent bone loss and osteoporosis
- Improved recovery: Speeds recovery and repairs connective tissues after injury or exercise
- Muscle mass: Improves muscle mass and athletic performance when combined with strength training
- Gut health: Supports gut health and integrity of intestinal lining
- Weight control: Helps control weight by increasing satiety and reducing fat accumulation
What are the Side Effects of Taking a Collagen Supplement?
Collagen supplements are generally well-tolerated, with few side effects reported. The possible side effects of collagen supplementation include stomach discomfort, allergic reactions and bad taste in one’s mouth.
- Stomach discomfort, nausea, heartburn: Especially when taking pills on an empty stomach
- Bad taste in mouth: Usually with powder supplements
- Rash or itching: Mmore common with marine collagens due to shellfish allergies)
- Feeling overly full: Can suppress appetite in some cases)
- Increased calcium levels: Usually only an issue for those already consuming high levels of calcium
- Higher oxalate levels: May increase risk of kidney stones in predisposed individuals To minimize risk of side effects, start with a low dose, take with food, and make sure to consume adequate water when using powdered collagen.
How much Collagen should you take?
Most experts recommend taking collagen supplements once per day, in the morning on an empty stomach or before bedtime. For powders, mix the collagen powder into a glass of water, juice, coffee, smoothies, or baked goods. Start with about 5-10 grams per day. For pills or capsules, take 2-4 pills per day. Follow dosage instructions on the product label.
To maximize absorption, pair collagen supplements with vitamin C which helps synthesize collagen. Taking collagen consistently for 2-4 months provides the best results as benefits are cumulative over time. If adding collagen for athletic performance and muscle growth, consume shortly after workouts. Use collagen supplements in addition to eating a collagen-rich diet for optimal benefits.
When should you use a Collagen Supplement?
The ideal times to use a collagen supplement are in the morning, before bedtime, before or after workouts, and when doing intermittent fasting or following a keto diet. Taking collagen in the morning or before bed on an empty stomach maximizes absorption. If your main goal is workout recovery and increased muscle mass, take collagen just before or after your workout to support performance and growth.
People following intermittent fasting or keto diets will also benefit from taking collagen during their eating window or fasting period to provide protein and prevent muscle loss. Those focusing on weight loss may use collagen to curb appetite and reduce snacking.
Do Collagen Supplements have an effect on Weight loss?
Yes, collagen supplements may support weight loss in several ways. Collagen peptides are highly satiating, meaning they help you feel fuller for longer after taking them. This leads to reduced appetite and less overall calorie intake throughout the day. Collagen can also boost metabolism and fat burning slightly while helping build lean muscle mass.
Also, by improving skin elasticity and cellulite dimples as you lose weight, collagen helps you achieve a toned, tighter appearance. However, the effect on weight loss is mild. Collagen supplements are best used alongside diet and exercise changes for optimal slimming results.
Do Collagen Supplements help to gain muscle?
Yes, some evidence suggests collagen supplements can help increase muscle mass and strength when combined with resistance training and protein. Collagen provides amino acids that support muscle protein synthesis needed for growth and recovery. However, the effect is likely minor.
Whey, casein, and plant proteins should make up the bulk of your protein intake for building muscle. Think of collagen as providing complementary amino acids to enhance the effects of training rather than as a key muscle-building supplement on its own.
Is it okay to take Collagen Supplements when dieting?
Yes, collagen supplements are perfectly safe and beneficial to take when following any type of diet, especially weight loss diets. Since collagen is satiating, it can help curb cravings and overeating that may derail your diet. The glycine in collagen has also been shown to help maintain muscle mass and promote fat burning when in a calorie deficit.
Collagen can support your weight loss goals while providing other structural and joint benefits. Just be mindful of any added sugars or artificial ingredients in flavored collagen products.
Is it good to take Collagen Supplements every day?
Yes, for the best results it is recommended to take collagen supplements daily and consistently. Collagen synthesis happens gradually over weeks and months. Daily collagen intake ensures your collagen levels remain elevated so the protein can be incorporated into skin cells, joints, bones, and muscles.
This ongoing collagen support helps provide continuous structural reinforcement and protection. Cycle off collagen for 1-2 weeks every 3 months or so to prevent any vitamin and mineral imbalances from high doses long-term.
What are the Best Collagen Supplements for different groups and purposes?
Certain collagen supplements are better suited for specific wellness goals and audiences based on collagen source, added nutrients, digestibility, age, and more. Here are the top collagen supplement options for various health needs.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Muscle Development?
The best collagen for muscle growth is Thorne Collagen Plus, a five star and budget friendly choice. Thorne Health is know for providing clean, well-tested, and scientifically proven products which is why their collagen supplements are no different. Other trusted products include collagen sold by Vital Proteins, Ancient Nutrition, and Live Conscious.
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Provides easily absorbable collagen peptides from grass-fed bovine to support muscle protein synthesis and athletic performance. Also contains vitamin C for collagen formation.
- Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein: Uses collagen from four food sources along with amino acids to stimulate lean muscle. Supports workout recovery. –
- Live Conscious Collagen Peptides: Contains hydrolyzed collagen sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine bone broth perfect for mixing into pre or post workout smoothies and shakes.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Women?
The best collagen supplement for women is Thorne Collagen Plus which contains high quality ingredients and is highly regarded based on thousands of reviews. Other trusted collagen products for women include collagen sold by Vital Proteins, Ancient Nutrition, and Live Conscious.
- Sports Research Collagen Peptides: Improves skin, nail, and hair health while reducing wrinkles and cellulite. Adds 11g protein and is unflavored.
- NeoCell Super Collagen: Uses type 1 and 3 collagen to restore youthful skin, hair, nails, and joints. Includes vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin B12.
- Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein: Supports hair growth and thickness, skin elasticity, and hormonal balance during menopause with zinc and vitamins A and C.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Men?
The best rated collagen supplement for men is Thorne Health Collagen. With thousands of 5-star reviews, and a science-backed formula, it is the cleanest option on the market. Other collagen supplements for men include Live Conscious Marine Collagen, Zenwise Health Hydrolyzed Collagen, and Further Food Collagen.
- Live Conscious Marine Collagen: Stimulates beard growth and thickness while improving joint flexibility using easily absorbed marine collagen peptides.
- Zenwise Health Hydrolyzed Collagen: Supports joint pain relief, lean muscle building, athletic performance, and digestive health using grass-fed bovine hide collagen peptides.
- Further Food Collagen Peptides: Improves hair and skin quality using collagen peptides from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine. Unflavored and unsweetened.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Weight Loss?
The best collagen supplement for weight loss is the Collagen Plus formula created by Thorne. Additional collagen supplements for weight loss includes Ancient Nutrition, Vital Proteins, and Bulletproof Collagen.
- Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein: Promotes satiety and fat burning with collagen from four food sources along with metabolism-supporting ingredients.
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Provides satiating collagen from grass-fed bovine to control cravings and build lean muscle mass.
- Bulletproof Collagen Protein: Uses hydrolyzed collagen peptides sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine to increase satiety. Keto and Paleo friendly.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Skin?
The best collagen supplement for skin is Thorne Collagen Plus, a proven health product with thousands of positive customer reviews raving about the product. Other collagen supplements for skin include Youtheory Collagen, Codeage Multi Collagen and Primitive Collagen.
- Youtheory Collagen: Combines types 1, 2, and 3 collagen to improve skin elasticity, firmness, and moisture. Includes vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
- Codeage Multi Collagen Protein: Uses five collagen sources including fish, eggshells, and bovine to improve skin hydration, smoothness, and texture.
- Primitive Collagen Peptides: Provides grass-fed bovine collagen peptides to reduce wrinkles, increase skin thickness and hydration.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Healthy Hair?
The best collagen supplement for hair health is Thorne Collagen Plus. Their ingredients promise to help promote healthy hair in addition to many other useful benefits. If you wish to go with another brand, you can check out Nutrafol Collagen, NeoCell Super Collagen and Sports Research Collagen.
- Nutrafol Collagen Supplement: Contains collagen peptides along with several hair-enhancing ingredients like marine collagen, ashwagandha, curcumin, saw palmetto, and biotin.
- NeoCell Super Collagen: Improves hair growth and shine with bioavailable hydrolyzed collagen, vitamin C, silica, and biotin.
- Sports Research Collagen Peptides: Supports thicker, stronger hair using collagen peptides from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Athletes?
The best collagen supplement for athletes is Thorne Collagen Fit. Thorne specifically created this formula to aid in recovery and to help prevent joint, muscle, bone, and tendon injuries that athletes typically face. For some additional brands to check out, Vital Proteins, Ancient Nutrition and Further Foods all provide great collagen supplements for athletes.
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Enhances muscle building, athletic performance, and recovery with easily digestible collagen peptides from grass-fed bovine.
- Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein: Uses protein from four collagen food sources to support joint health, muscle repair, and workout recovery.
- Further Food Collagen Peptides: Improves athletic performance and recovery with highly absorbable collagen peptides from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Aging?
When it comes to youthfulness, the best supplement for aging is Thorne Collagen Plus. This science-driven, 5-star product is both affordable and proven to work when it comes to wrinkles and skin elasticity. If Thorne is outside of the budget, some other collagen supplements can be taken for aging such as NeoCell Super Collagen, Codeage Multi Collagen and Ancient Nutirion.
- NeoCell Super Collagen: Contains collagen types 1 and 3 from chickens along with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin B12 to reverse signs of aging.
- Codeage Multi Collagen Protein: Delivers five collagen types including bovine, fish, and eggshell to improve skin elasticity, joint mobility, and bone density.
- Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein: Contains collagen peptides from four food sources to strengthen skin, bones, joints, and muscles as we age.
What is the Best Collagen Supplement for Bones and Joints?
The best collagen supplement for bones and joints is Thorne Collagen Fit. This proprietary formula sold by Thorne Health is the highest rated product on the market when it comes to your bones and joints. Other collagen supplements for bones and joints include Vital Proteins Collagen, Bulletproof Collagen, and Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Collagen.
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Reduces joint inflammation and pain while improving bone density with easily absorbed collagen peptides.
- Bulletproof Collagen Protein: Provides satiating hydrolyzed collagen from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine to strengthen bones and lubricate joints.
- Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Collagen: Uses collagen and hyaluronic acid from organic bone broth to support joint mobility and bone strength.
