For those of us who are continually looking for ways to improve the appearance and health of our skin, hair, and nails, the polypeptide collagen has proven to work wonders.
Our body creates collagen for us; being one of the most abundant proteins in our bodies, there has been an extensive amount of research done on the benefits of this glycine and proline containing peptide – these amino acids are what compose our connective tissues, cartilage, bone, and skin.
As we age, our bodies tend to decrease the amount of collagen production, giving rise to brittle hair, gray strands, wrinkled skin, and weaker nails. Apparently, collagen influences the proper structure of hair follicles, allowing for the production of hair pigment.
It is important to know that our bodies do not put the collagen that has been consumed to work in its full form. Preferably, the protein is digested, and its constituent amino acids are used – collagen production is thus prompted.
Given the bioavailability of these amino acids, once a supplement is taken, joint and bone support and strengthening had also been noted.
In addition to the intake of collagen supplements, it is vital to maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well as diet in order to see better results. It is highly recommended that you take Vitamin C with your collagen, as the production of this protein will be stunted given its absence.
Stress, sleep deprivation, gastrointestinal problems, and an unhealthy diet will not be in your favor.
Know that there are three types of collagen – Type I which comprises the majority of nails, ligaments, bone, organs, hair, and skin, Type II which comprises the majority of cartilage, and Type III, which comprises the fibrous proteins in connective tissue. Depending on what you are trying to target, be weary of the type of collagen offered in the supplements you purchase.
Supplement sources of collagen can come in liquid, powder, or pill form – this allows you the flexibility of choosing whichever consuming method works best for you.
Before getting into the list, I will note the importance of paying attention to the ingredients, as there are things you should avoid when shopping for collagen supplements. Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are in the clear as they promote collagen production – but CoQ10, glucosamine, and arginine are some, as they do not contain high collagen content. Branched-chain amino acids are also of no benefit in comparison to those offered by collagen.
Despite these ingredients being helpful to our bodies in their ways, they will not stimulate collagen production nor expedite the process in any way.
Filler ingredients are often added to supplements as well – keep an eye out for maltodextrin, sugars, oils, and artificial ingredients. You want to get the best bet for your buck, and these unnecessary ingredients will only cheapen your supplement.
There is a wide variety of supplements that you can choose from, but below I picked out the highest rated products on Amazon gave customer reviews.
Best Collagen Supplements Review
1. Phi Naturals Citrus Flavored Collagen Complete Hydrolyzed Peptides Powder
This advanced collagen formula is similar to that of the Vital Protein brand given its source – pasture-raised and grass-fed cattle. However, it has a citrus flavor added to it, which appeals to many, but may leave some turning their heads as it is not as versatile.
Given its citrus flavor, this supplement is best mixed with fruit juices and smoothies. Due to its guarantee to regenerate and protect collagen, many have raved about the appearance of their hair, nails, and skin, as well as the disappearance of pain in their joints and the feeling of stronger bones.
Some of you are more prone to breaking bones, so it is important that those who are are taking supplements once or twice daily – it’s better to invest in collagen supplements than the most expensive and inclusive health insurance plan, right? Just kidding, please do both.
Keep in mind that this brand offers a hydrolyzed form of the supplement, meaning the extracted collagen is put in an evaporator and concentrated, possibly desiccated with drum driers, and pulverized.
It is important to understand the neurochemistry behind glutamate and GABA receptor balance before taking hydrolyzed, or unhydrolyzed supplements as inflammation or organ damage may arise. In most cases, no significant difference is noted, but it is best to refer to a physician if this concerns you.
Phi Naturals provides the full package in the sense that it does not contain only one type of collagen. Including the main three collagen proteins, its 14-gram serving size allows for a broader range of support and collagen production.
The ingredients in Phi Naturals are listed below:
- Hydrolyzed Collagen
- Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid)
- Chondroitin 1,500 mg
- Glucosamine Sulfate 1,200 mg
- Hyaluronic Acid 25 mg
- 70 Trace Minerals 100 mg
- Bromelain
- Papain
- Protease
- Natural orange flavor
- Stevia
Pros
- Contains type I, II, and III collagen
- Hydrolyzed
Cons
- Not as versatile given added flavor
- Not FDA approved
- Several ingredients – not as pure as competitors
2. Premium Collagen Peptides
This Keto and Paleo certified product claim to be a gut-friendly and easily digestible formula, containing type I and III collagen proteins.
Sourced from grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine in Brazil, this product is very similar to those already listed.
What differentiates this product from its competitors is its amino acid profile, listed below:
- Alanine
- Arginine
- Aspartic Acid
- Glutamic Acid
- Glycine
- Hydroxyline
- Hydroxylysine
- Hydroxyproline
- Isoleucine
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Proline
- Serine
- Threonine
- Tyrosine
- Valine
This odor and flavorless powder mix are famous given its solubility, although it may clump in colder drinks – it is recommended that you mix this supplement with a drink or proper meal at least once daily, twice being the suggested intake, 11 grams at a time.
Keep in mind that results are not immediate – you will see improvements given your consistent use of the product over time.
If no results are seen after a 90 day trial period, this brand offers refunds given your dissatisfaction with the product.
When it comes to allergies, note that some are allergic to bovine, so it is best to consult a doctor before intake of this product (this goes for those stated above as well). This goes for those of you who are also pregnant, taking prescription medications, nursing a child, or have an existing medical condition or conditions.
Given its reviews, those recommending this product claimed to see significant improvement in the health, flexibility, and function of their joints and ligaments.
Pros
- Packed with amino-acids
- Flavorless and odorless
- Versatile
- Stick packets available for to-go
Cons
- Not evaluated nor approved by food and drug administration
- May cause stomach pain
- Contains type I and III protein – type II not present
- Few noted acne problems arose
- Some complained about powder not dissolving well
3. Natural Force® Collagen Protein
Natural Force collagen powder supplement is also sourced from grass-fed, and pasture raised free-roaming bovine in South America. Being a top-ranked product, this supplement has been said to provide the highest quality collagen peptides for its buyers.
Consisting of 30 servings of Type 1 pure collagen hydrolysate peptides, this product has been said to provide rapid results to the health of nails, ligaments, bone, organs, hair, and skin.
It’s no lie that collagen is one of the most important missing proteins in our diets today – it is extremely important that we are aware of this, therefore taking steps to implement an adequate amount back into our diets. Natural Force makes this easy for you – healthy bones, joints, and gut health are crucial to a happy and healthy life.
Claiming to ensure high-quality bio-available collagen peptides given its pure handcrafted source, this odorless and flavorless protein boost is paleo certified, gluten free, dairy free and non-GMO.
Being a bioavailable collagen protein supplement, several buyers claimed that their dietary collagen needs were addressed efficiently.
This taste and odor free daily 100% collagen protein supplement is a phenomenal buy as it contains 10 grams of collagen protein while containing no fillers – fat and sugar are also left out of the mix.
Whether its one or two scoops once or twice daily, these hydrolyzed collagen peptides allow for vital amino acids like hydroxyproline to polymerize to aid in joint pain, gastrointestinal function, joint recovery, as well as several other benefits and features.
Pros
- No artificial flavors or ingredients added
- Flavorless and odorless
- Versatile – mix with any food or drink!
- Hydrolyzed
Cons
- Not evaluated nor approved by food and drug administration
- Some claimed the quality was not as high as that of competing brands
4. Vital Proteins Pasture-Raised, Grass-Fed Collagen Peptides
This non-GMO, kosher, paleo friendly, gluten, dairy, hormone, and preservative free supplement has received very high ratings given its versatility – being a powder collagen concentrate, it dissolves and absorbs quickly into the cold or hot water, other liquids, and smoothies!
Along with the container, to-go sized packets are also available, perfect for those who commute to work or travel often. In regards to consumption, it is suggested that you mix one to two scoops into your meal or drink of choice one to two times per day.
Being Whole30 approved, Vital Proteins is sourced from grass-fed and pasture raised cattle, ensuring its sustainability and given its high-quality nutrients.
This powder is clean, flavorless and odorless, for those who get grossed out quickly by the unnatural taste of supplements, adding a scoop of this powder to your meals will not alter the flavor whatsoever (perhaps just the consistency).
Consisting of 20 grams of collagen per serving, this product claims to guarantee noticeable overall health and wellness as well as a boost in immune and digestive functions (given the 3,719 mg of natural glycine).
Powder supplements are not limited to just-drinks – feel free to add a serving to your yogurts, oatmeals, cereal, soups, or sauces – it’s truly up to you!
Digested easily, Vital Proteins has been said to promote younger looking skin, shinier and stronger hair, and less brittle nails, all while helping in the maintenance healthy bones and joints.
Many have also acknowledged the fact that this supplement has helped balance their diet, therefore helping with weight maintenance.
Pros
- Versatile
- Safe for those who are gluten and dairy free
- Sourced from grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine
- Dissolves in both hot and cold liquids
Cons
- May cause bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort (very few stated this)
5. Premium Anti-Aging Marine Collagen Powder
Unlike the hydrolyzed collagen supplements listed above, this transparent and sustainably sourced product is composed of proteins of fish caught in the North Atlantic ocean.
Given the pristine conditions of the waters in this region, this supplement has been rated a high-quality purchase given its price.
Collagen sourced from marine animals are the smallest particles in comparison to that of land animals – it also contains the lowest molecular weight among all collagen types. This is beneficial as it makes the digestive process much faster and less energy intensive – particles are absorbed from the intestinal wall into the bloodstream at a much more efficient rate, resulting in more intensive healing and nourishment.
Similar to both brands Vital Protein and Natural force, there is no added flavor nor odor to this non-GMO, gluten, wheat, corn, eggs, dairy, soy, and yeast free powder mix. This enzymatically processed product contains intact peptides, resulting in its influence on cells that compose the hair, skin, nails, eyes, teeth, cartilage, bones, tendons, internal organs, arteries, blood vessels, and the immune system.
Some of its most apparent results are linked to an improvement in gut and digestion health, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties, bone, joint, cartilage, and ligament strengthening and repair, metabolism boost, weight-loss and management (appetite control), lean muscle growth, and brighter skin.
For those of you over 30, this product has been highly recommended given the fact that your collagen levels decrease by an average of 1.5% annually. The benefits are comparable to that of bone broth. This anti-aging amino acid (glycine) mix should be taken once or twice daily – 10 grams per serving.
6. Collagen Peptides Hydrolyzed Powder
This non-GMO, grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine sourced (from China), gluten-free, and kosher premium beef collagen powder contains hydrolyzed peptides in two 16 oz containers – for the price, it sounds like a great buy one get one free deal!
Revitalize your body from the inside out with this protein booster – it contains 41 servings of 11 gram daily scoops (type I and III proteins only).
Being unflavored and odorless, to the dismay of few, this product has been said to be easily mixed as well as absorbed into your bloodstream.
Hydrolyzed Perfotec collagen, processed enzymatically in a delicate manner, has been said to aid in tissue repair after muscle training, while also healing poor quality hair, nails, and intestinal health.
Given its structured short amino acids, this collagen supplement is processed through the body fairly quickly upon consumption.
Keep in mind that there are several low quality hydrolyzed collagen powder supplements that are produced by an acidic method, which results in damage, and therefore inferior, collagen peptides.
Given its bioavailability, some positive feedback given customer reviews are listed:
- Healthier hair and nails
- Healthier intestinal function
- Healthier joints, tendons, and ligaments
Pros
- Two one pound bottles for the price of one
Cons
- Few claimed the powder did not mix well
- Very few claimed they might have received a bad batch
7. Advanced Collagen Supplement, Type 1, 2 and 3 with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C
The all natural Forest Leaf’s brand collagen supplement exhibits one significant difference when juxtaposed to the five products listed above – rather than coming in powder form, and the protein concentrate is packed into 120 vegetable capsules per container.
This protein non-GMO, It is recommended you take two capsules at least three hours before a meal, twice daily.
Many competitors are not typically going to offer all three collagen protein types. This can be a disadvantage to some who are looking for a more holistically targeted protein booster. For those who are individuals in need of the benefits offered by either collagen type I, II, or III, this supplement may not be a wise investment (given the potency of each constituent protein type, that is).
Given its triple action, this advanced collagen supplement is all-inclusive in its remedies. Those who left higher ratings of this product (all reviews were five stars) claimed their skin seemed more moist and elastic, their hair felt sleek and thicker, their cellulite and stretch marks became less noticeable, their facial skin glowed with youthfulness, and that their nails were less prone to breakage.
Of course, for those of who live more sedentary lifestyles, it is harder to tell whether these NSF Certified Facility collagen supplements are in fact aiding in the composition of fragile-prone bones, ligaments, and joints.
Those who play extreme sports, however, (given relative reviews) are said to have noticed severe improvements in the avoidance of bone fractures (therefore increasing mobility), as well as joint protection and ligament elasticity.
Pros
- Three collagen types included
- Capsule form – best for those who prefer not to mix supplements with their drinks and meals.
- Contains hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C which promote collagen production, plumped skin, and protect from sun damage.
Cons
- Fillers included – powder forms are said to be more collagen potent and free of unnecessary ingredients.
8. Youtheory Collagen Advanced Formula Tablets
Youtheory Collagen Advanced Formula Tablets are packed with 18 amino acids, consisting of the three more abundant types of collagen proteins sourced from blended bovine and chicken extracting protein.
Containing 390 tablets, the recommended dose is three tablets per serving, twice daily with or without food, supplying a total of 65 total servings per container.
This gluten, dairy, and soy free product have been said to significantly impede the aging effects of facial skin cells, while also supporting all other relevant body parts mentioned in the product listed before this one (given its 3 type protein bioavailability).
*Allergy Review* This product may contain sulfite residues – so make sure to consult a doctor if you are unaware.
Here are some important supplement facts you should note regarding the included ingredients:
- 26 calories per serving
- Sodium 10mg
- Vitamin C as calcium ascorbate (100% daily intake)
- Protein 6 grams (12% daily intake)
- Magnesium Stearate (vegetable grade)
There are no traces of fat, cholesterol, or carbohydrates – so those of you weight watchers, do not fret.
Pros
- Three collagen types included – holistic implications noted
- Comes in tablet form – best for those who prefer not to mix supplements with their drinks and meals.
- Contains Vitamin C which promotes collagen production and protects from sun damage.
Cons
- Fillers result in less potent product
- A good number complained of several differing negative side effects (only 6% from review pool)
- Tablets are enormous – some were uncomfortable with taking six per day
9. Health Logics BioCell Collagen Joint and Skin Care
The Health Logics BioCell Collagen capsule supplement has several outstanding reviews – being a clinically tested and patented product, these 1,000 mg BioCell collagen capsules have been shown to deliver optimal results.
The suggested dose is two capsules per serving, twice daily – make sure to do so 20 minutes before eating.
These 1,000 mg BioCell collagen capsules are composed of hydrolyzed collagen type II peptides (600 mg), chondroitin sulfate (200 mg), and hyaluronic acid (100 mg). Health Logics truly upped their game – they created a supplement entirely independent of that of their competitors.
Being a GMP certified product, customers stated that their daily intake led to the promotion of joint comfort and mobility, a reduction in dryness (by 76%), crows feet, and other common wrinkle-affected areas.
An intensive sports targeted study had shown that this particular product benefited musculoskeletal tissue, therefore also acting as a performance recovery supplement.
Pros
- Three collagen types included – holistic implications noted
- Comes in capsule form – best for those who prefer not to mix supplements with their drinks and meals.
- Free of allergens
Cons
- Not FDA approved
- Rice powder, and magnesium stearate as fillers
- Not Vegan
10. Collagen Marine Gummies Hydrolyzed Supplement
As both a user and lover of these sugar-free collagen marine gummies, I highly recommend those of you who are a big fan of gummy bears to look into this product.
Not only is it sourced from marine life (the collagen particles from source are significantly smaller and therefore more permeable through the blood-gut barrier, as mentioned before), they are delicious!
Just be sure to take your dose following a meal, as suggested.
This 100% natural, GMO-free, keto friendly, and pectin based supplement has worked wonders for both my now rejuvenated hair, skin, and nails, as well as my severe acne problems.
Being an easily digestible supplement, this type I and III protein containing product leaves me excited to get my two gummy daily dose – it’s hard to forget to take them, and sometimes even harder to exceed the daily dose.
You know what I’m talking about, sweet tooths.
I make sure to never run out of these soy, nut, milk, egg, gluten, artificial coloring, and preservative free gummies – they are made from fruits, which contributes to their natural sweet flavoring (sucrose) as well as their pink coloring.
Collagen Marine gummies are made in USA (no need to deal with the hassle of international shipping), and are FDA registered as well as GMP certified.
Here are the ingredients:
- 96 mg of collagen
- 4 grams of sugar
- 4.2 grams of Carbohydrates
- Water
- Sugarcane
- Glucose Syrup
- Citrus Pectin
- Natural and artificial flavor
- Beta Carotene
- Citric Acid
- Sodium Citrate
Pros
- Tasty due to natural sweeteners
- Contains 1.5% more collagen than competitor brands
Cons
- Many fillers added
