NUTRITION

The Best Collagen Supplements of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

By Emma ParkerUpdated on Nov 12, 2024

Collagen is a protein that’s essential for maintaining skin elasticity, hydration, and overall youthful appearance. As we age, our collagen production naturally decreases, which can lead to signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging skin. Collagen supplements have become a popular way to support skin health from within. Here’s a list of some of the best collagen supplements for skin health, chosen for their quality, ingredients, and effectiveness.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

4.9

Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine
Includes hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
Unflavored and dissolves well in coffee, smoothies, or other drinks
Collagen per Serving: 20g

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Vital Proteins is one of the most well-known collagen brands, praised for its high-quality, bioavailable collagen peptides that are easy for the body to absorb. It contains type I and III collagen, which are beneficial for skin elasticity and hydration. Plus, it includes hyaluronic acid and vitamin C for extra skin-supportive benefits.

Pros & Cons

Unflavored formula allows it to be easily incorporated into various beverages or recipes without altering taste

Keto and Paleo-Friendly

Made with grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen

As it’s sourced from bovine collagen, it is not suitable for those avoiding animal products

Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

4.8

Contains multiple types of collagen for comprehensive skin support
Non-GMO, keto-friendly, and paleo-friendly
Easy-to-mix powder, available in various flavors
Collagen per Serving: 10g

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Ancient Nutrition’s Multi Collagen Protein contains five types of collagen from four sources (beef, chicken, fish, and eggshell membrane), covering types I, II, III, V, and X collagen. This broad spectrum makes it beneficial not just for skin but also for joints, hair, and nails. The addition of fermented ingredients enhances bioavailability.

Pros & Cons

Sourced from non-GMO, pasture-raised, cage-free, and cruelty-free sources,

Contains multiple types of collagen (I, II, III, V, and X)

Enhanced Absorption

Contains ingredients derived from eggs and fish, which may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these foods

Garden of Life Grass-Fed Collagen Beauty

4.6

Contains biotin and silica for additional skin, hair, and nail support
Grass-fed, pasture-raised collagen with no added hormones or antibiotics
Probiotic blend for enhanced absorption and digestive health
Collagen per Serving: 11g

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Formulated specifically for skin health, Garden of Life’s Collagen Beauty includes both type I and III collagen, along with added biotin, silica, and probiotics. This combination supports a healthy, glowing complexion while also benefiting gut health, which plays a role in skin clarity.

Pros & Cons

Non-GMO tested, gluten-free, and free from artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives, pasture-raised, cage-free, and cruelty-free sources

Contains 1.5 billion CFU of Lactobacillus plantarum

Supports Skin, Hair, and Nails

Considered premium-priced compared to some other collagen supplements on the market

NeoCell Super Collagen Powder

4.5

Non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from artificial ingredients
Hydrolyzed for optimal absorption
Affordable and widely available
Collagen per Serving: 10g
Calories per Serving: 35

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

NeoCell offers a pure collagen powder that’s free from additives and includes hydrolyzed collagen, which is easy to absorb and specifically supports skin elasticity and hydration. It provides type I and III collagen, making it an ideal choice for those focused solely on skin and hair benefits.

Pros & Cons

Sourced from grass-fed bovine collagen, ensuring a quality product

Gluten-free, soy-free, and lactose-free

Supports Skin, Hair, and Nails

A few users have noted that the powder may require vigorous stirring to dissolve completely

Further Food Collagen Peptides

4.5

Only one ingredient: grass-fed collagen peptides
Free from sugars, fillers, and artificial flavors
Dissolves easily, tasteless, and versatile for mixing
Collagen per Serving: 20g
Calories per Serving: 80

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Further Food Collagen Peptides are known for being simple, clean, and effective. This supplement is made from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen and dissolves easily in hot and cold drinks, making it versatile for daily use. It's rich in types I and III collagen, perfect for boosting skin hydration and elasticity.

Pros & Cons

Gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free,

Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen

Easily dissolves in various beverages

As it’s sourced from bovine collagen, it is not suitable for those avoiding animal products

The Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements

Collagen supplements have gained significant popularity for their potential benefits, particularly for skin health, but also for overall wellness. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that acts as the building block for skin, hair, nails, bones, and joints. As we age, collagen production naturally decreases, which can lead to wrinkles, joint discomfort, and weaker hair and nails. Taking collagen supplements may help combat these signs of aging and improve overall health. Let’s look at some of the top benefits of collagen supplementation.

1. Supports Skin Elasticity and Hydration

One of the primary reasons people turn to collagen supplements is for skin health. Collagen is a major component of the skin, contributing to its structure, elasticity, and hydration. Studies show that taking collagen supplements may help improve skin elasticity, reduce dryness, and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Benefits for Skin: By providing extra collagen, these supplements can help the skin appear smoother and firmer, giving it a youthful, glowing look. Collagen supplements may also boost the skin’s hydration levels, which is essential for maintaining a radiant complexion.

2. Promotes Stronger Hair and Nails

If you struggle with brittle nails or thinning hair, collagen may be a natural solution. Collagen provides amino acids that are essential for keratin production, the protein that forms hair and nails. With age, hair can lose its strength and thickness, and nails can become more prone to breaking.

Benefits for Hair and Nails: Taking collagen supplements can help promote stronger, thicker hair and support healthier, more resilient nails. Some studies have shown that collagen can help reduce nail brittleness, making them less likely to split or chip.

3. Improves Joint Health and Reduces Joint Pain

Collagen is a key component of cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. As collagen production decreases with age, cartilage can weaken, leading to stiffness and joint pain. This is why collagen supplements are often used by individuals with joint issues or arthritis.

Benefits for Joints: Collagen supplements may help support joint cartilage and reduce inflammation, leading to improved mobility and less pain. Many people report that regular collagen supplementation helps relieve joint discomfort, especially during exercise or daily activities.

4. Enhances Bone Strength and Density

Bones are made primarily of collagen, which gives them structure and strength. Over time, collagen loss can lead to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Collagen supplements may play a role in maintaining healthy bones as we age.

Benefits for Bone Health: Studies suggest that collagen supplements can help slow down the rate of bone loss and even improve bone density. This makes collagen a valuable supplement for bone health, particularly for postmenopausal women and older adults.

5. Boosts Muscle Mass

Collagen is found in muscle tissue and plays a role in maintaining muscle strength and mass. For those looking to increase muscle mass or support muscle recovery, collagen supplements can be beneficial as they contain amino acids like glycine, which support muscle repair and growth.

Benefits for Muscles: Some research indicates that collagen supplements, combined with resistance training, may help increase muscle mass and strength in older adults. Additionally, it may support muscle recovery after exercise, making it a popular choice among athletes.

6. Improves Gut Health

Collagen is rich in amino acids, particularly glycine and glutamine, which are known to support the digestive tract. A healthy gut lining is essential for proper digestion, immune function, and nutrient absorption, and collagen may help strengthen this barrier.

Benefits for Digestion: Collagen may help soothe the digestive tract, making it useful for individuals with digestive issues like leaky gut syndrome or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By strengthening the gut lining, collagen may improve overall gut health, which also positively impacts skin and immune function.

7. May Aid in Weight Management

Collagen is a protein, which means it can help you feel full and satisfied. Including collagen as part of a balanced diet may help manage cravings and promote satiety, which is helpful for weight management.

Benefits for Weight Control: Some research suggests that taking collagen supplements as part of a balanced diet may reduce appetite and help regulate hunger hormones. This, in turn, can help prevent overeating and support weight management goals.

8. Promotes Heart Health

Collagen provides structure to arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Weak collagen levels can lead to less flexible arteries, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.

Benefits for Cardiovascular Health: Some studies have shown that collagen supplements may help improve artery flexibility and lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. This means collagen can play a role in maintaining cardiovascular health over the long term.

Choosing the Right Collagen Supplement

To maximize the benefits, it’s essential to choose a high-quality collagen supplement. Here are a few tips:

Check the Collagen Type: Collagen types I and III are best for skin, hair, and nails, while type II is more beneficial for joints.
Look for Hydrolyzed Collagen: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are broken down for easy absorption, making them more effective.
Added Ingredients: Supplements with added vitamins like C, hyaluronic acid, or biotin can enhance collagen synthesis and overall benefits.

How to Take Collagen Supplements

Collagen supplements are available in powders, capsules, and even ready-to-drink forms. Here are some tips to incorporate them into your routine:

Powder: Add collagen powder to your morning coffee, smoothie, or oatmeal for a convenient, tasteless option.
Capsules: Collagen capsules are a quick, no-fuss option for those on the go.
Consistency is Key: For the best results, take collagen daily for at least 4–6 weeks. Skin, joints, and muscles will benefit from consistent intake over time.

Final Thoughts

Collagen supplements offer a variety of health benefits, from enhancing skin appearance to supporting joint, bone, and muscle health. They are an easy and effective way to promote well-being from within, helping you look and feel your best. Whether you’re aiming for glowing skin, stronger nails, better joint function, or improved digestion, collagen can be a valuable addition to your health and beauty routine.