You might be familiar with collagen as it's often in beauty, hair, and skincare products, but there is so much more to it when it comes to your body.
For performance athletes, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissue can come under a lot of strain, and any lack of collagen can make things worse.
So, together with the team at TotalShape and a dietician, I did extensive research and testing of over two dozen collagen powders. I personally used them, asked our clients who use collagen powders for feedback, and consulted a dietician.
Here's the ultimate list of the 10 best collagen powders you should try.
The Best Collagen Powders
- Best Overall Collagen Powder: CIRA Glow-Getter Collagen
- Cheapest Collagen Powder: Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen
- Best Collagen Powder for Skin and Joints: CIRA Glow-Getter Collagen
- Best Collagen Powder from Various Sources: Ancient Nutrition
- Best Collagen Supplement for Athletes: Sports Research Collagen
- Best Marine Collagen Powder: Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen
- Best Collagen Powder With Vitamins: CIRA Glow-Getter Collagen
- Best Collagen Powder Without Artificial Flavors: Kylea Collagen Peptides
- Best Collagen Powder for Nails and Hair: Transparent Labs Collagen
- Best Grass-Fed Collagen Powder Formula: PaleoPro Grass-Fed
Our Top Product Recommendations (April 2024)
1 - CIRA Glow-Getter Collagen (Best Overall With Vitamins for Joints and Skin)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides 10 grams of collagen to support joints, skin, and gut health
- Mixes easily with water and suitable for blending with smoothies
- Comes in both flavored and unflavored options for mixing with food
- Added vitamins may help support healthy hair, skin, and nails
Cons
- Not suitable for vegetarians/vegans since it's bovine collagen
Our top recommendation for collagen peptides comes from CIRA Glow-Getter. I’ve personally tried CIRA Glow-Getter and can vouch for its effectiveness.
In just a few weeks, I noticed my skin becoming more radiant, and my hair and nails felt stronger.
But my clients also commented that it seems to work well to improve joint health and support better injury recovery.
Plus, there are some added vitamins that your body needs for connective tissue and skin repair.
Compared to the second Kylea collagen and third Transparent collagen on the list, this is the only one with both flavored and unflavored options.
The only thing to keep in mind is that this isn't suitable for vegans or vegetarians as it uses bovine collagen.
2 - Kylea Collagen Peptides Powder (Best Without Artificial Flavors)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains 11 grams of bovine collagen peptides
- Has 10 grams of protein per serving
- Free from artificial additives like colors, flavors, and preservatives
- Many user reports of positive results on joints, hair, skin, and nails
Cons
- Only comes in an unflavored option
Over many months of testing out these products, our team has agreed that of all the collagen powders, Kylea has managed to create one that stands out the most.
Kylea is made from pasture-raised, grass-fed bovine collagen. It’s also free of common allergens, artificial flavors, sugars, and sweeteners.
I remember the first time I mixed Kylea Collagen into my morning smoothie. My body felt rejuvenated, and it became a staple in my daily routine.
Kylea also contains a good amount of protein per serving, so it may help with better muscle strength, stronger joints, and healthier skin, hair, and nails.
While it’s unflavored, blending it with some fresh fruits solves the issue.
Finally, Kylea collagen powder and Transparent Labs powder have 11 grams compared to the Cira glow-getter collagen, which only contains 10 grams.
3 - Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Collagen Hydrolysate (Best for Hair and Nails)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains 11 grams of hydrolyzed collagen peptides
- With less than 2 grams of carbs, it's keto-friendly
- Void artificial ingredients
- Restores nail and hair health
Cons
- Some more flavor options would be great
From a nutrition perspective, Transparent Labs only contains collagen and some traces of carbs and iron. In an industry where supplements are so commonly packed full of additives, it's something very refreshing to see.
I decided to give Transparent Labs a try after hearing positive feedback from my clients. The experience was enlightening. My joints felt more flexible, and there was a noticeable glow to my skin.
Also, if you are on a keto diet, you may choose Transparent Labs collagen powder since it only contains 2 grams of carbs compared to Kylea and CIRA Glow which have more.
One thing I would say is that limiting it to just the chocolate flavor means you can get a bit bored with it.
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4 - PaleoPro Grass-Fed Bone Broth Collagen + Turmeric (Best Grass-Fed)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Minimum processing to provide a healthy source of natural collagen
- Certified paleo-friendly using only grass-fed, pasture-raised cows
- Contains no carbs or fat to mess up your ketosis
- GMO and hormone-free to keep your gut flora healthy
Cons
- Some people have struggled with the texture
I was on a paleo diet, feeling the strain of dietary restrictions when I stumbled upon PaleoPro. It not only aligned with my diet but enhanced it. The texture was a bit grainy, but the health benefits and the energy boost I felt made that a small price to pay.
PaleoPro definitely fills that gap when it comes to premium collagen peptides, which you would only get in your diet by eating the less appetizing parts of animals.
The grass-fed collagen is also certified hormone and GMO-free, which is something that a lot of paleo dieters take quite seriously.
My personal experience with the flavor was positive, but I found that just mixing it in a shaker left it a bit grainy.
5 - Physician's Choice Collagen Peptides Powder
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains 7 g of bovine collagen per serving
- Includes some digestive enzymes that can help to absorb the collagen faster
- Comes unflavored, making it ideal for adding to snacks
- Sourced from grass-fed, hormone, and antibiotic-free animals
Cons
- High-quality food supplement but a bit on the expensive side
This is specifically marketed as a health and beauty supplement for women.
Because of this, it's important to note that the dosage is designed for women as well.
Every morning, as I stirred Physician's Choice into my tea, I felt like I was stirring in a potion of youth and vitality. My skin thanked me with a glow, and my hair had never been so luscious.
Because it is sourced from animals that haven't been exposed to hormone or antibiotic treatment, you're also getting something that is of higher quality and much safer from a health perspective [1].
If you work it out per gram of collagen, then this one does come out on the high side, but the quality is highlighted as a big plus in many reviews.
6 - Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 20 g of grass-fed collagen peptides per serving
- With no flavor or odor, you can mix it with tea or coffee
- No added sugar or artificial flavors
- Many positive reports that it mixes easily with water
Cons
- Some users reported a slight aftertaste and sensation
If you're looking for collagen supplements with a stronger dose per serving, then Vital Proteins is one of the best options.
I was initially drawn to Vital Proteins because of the generous serving of collagen - 20 g in each serving. My skin felt firmer, and my joints more agile. It was a rediscovery of youth, and though there was a slight aftertaste, the benefits far outweighed this minor inconvenience.
After speaking with my dietitian, she said that for most people, half a scoop would be plenty as a nutrition boost.
This means that you can make the powder last a good bit longer.
While it mixes easily with hot and cold water, I did notice a few comments online that said it left a slightly strange and grainy sensation in the mouth.
7 - NeoCell Super Collagen Powder
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to provide the ideal amount of collagen to support skin, hair, and nails
- Mixes very easily with no flavor to deal with
- Hydrolyzed collagen can make it a lot easier to digest
- Available in bulk containers to save on costs
Cons
- Some reports about damaged packaging
I was intrigued by NeoCell’s focus on beauty, so I gave it a shot. Every scoop felt like a beauty treatment. My skin started to radiate a natural glow, and my athletic performance improved.
The formula is designed with the needs of women in mind, meaning you don't get too large a dose in each serving.
A lot of users provided positive comments that it's very easy on the stomach, and many women reported positive and noticeable results within 2 weeks.
The main negative that I saw was that some people reported that the seal on the container was damaged during transport, but they were able to get a replacement shipped out.
8 - Sports Research Collagen Peptides Powder (Best for Athletes)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to provide the full profile of amino acids
- Can be mixed with drinks and healthy snacks
- Doesn't leave an aftertaste or chalky sensation
- Good bulk order options available
Cons
- Can cause some bloating and gas
This Sports Research product is specifically marketed for supporting healthy joints and bones.
Weeks into using this supplement my joints felt more fluid, and my bones stronger. It was like an internal armor building up. Yes, there was initial bloating, but it subsided, leaving behind a body that felt fortified and resilient.
It's also one of the few products that claim to provide the complete profile of amino acids that your body needs to repair and rebuild damaged tissue fully.
For performance athletes, that can make a significant difference when it comes to recovery from training.
I liked that it had no flavor at all, so you can mix it with all types of drinks and food.
9 - Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein Powder (Cheapest & Best Marine Collagen Mix)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low-calorie with no carbs to support most diets
- Provides a small boost of calcium
- Includes chicken, eggs, bovine, and marine collagen
- Also available in convenient stick packs that fit in your pocket
Cons
- Does have a slightly fishy smell
I’ve always been a fan of Dr. Axe, so trying Ancient Nutrition was a no-brainer. Despite the slightly higher price I decided to give it a try. Every serving felt like a comprehensive health boost.
The fishy smell was there, but the vitality I felt every morning made it a non-issue. It was an investment in holistic wellness, and my body thanked me for it.
Sourced from chickens, eggs, cows, and fish, you get a very healthy blend to support various body functions [2].
While the collagen from fish does provide benefits, be aware that it gives the powder a slightly fishy smell.
10 - Amy Myers, MD, Collagen Protein Powder
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Promotes vibrant hair, skin, and nails
- Uses only the healthiest, organic, grass-fed, pasture-raised beef collagen
- Mixes easily into both hot and cold drinks
Cons
- Although advertised as completely unflavored, some people found it to have a medicinal taste
I was drawn to Dr. Myers’ collagen because of its purity. This is a 100% non-GMO collagen that is sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised beef. From the first scoop, I felt a difference.
My gut health improved, and my cravings for sugar diminished. The medicinal taste was noticeable but easily masked in my morning smoothies, and the benefits to my body were undeniable.
Dr. Myers specifically designed the formula to support both Type I and Type III collagen.
This means that not only are your connective tissues enhanced, but it supports the optimization of your lean muscle mass.
My client also noticed that her hair and nails improved after 2 weeks of using it so I’m not surprised many reviews find this collagen supplement to be a game-changer, both for their musculoskeletal system and also for their intestinal system.
How We Tested Collagen Powders
Here's how we chose the best collagen powders.
Collagen Content
We checked the grams of collagen each product claimed to offer per serving. We then rated the powders based on the amount of collagen they have.
Ingredient Breakdown
We meticulously analyzed the ingredient list of each product, focusing on the source of collagen (e.g., bovine, marine, chicken).
We identified any additional ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fillers. Special attention was given to any artificial additives or potential allergens.
Preference was given to products with natural ingredients, and those sourced from grass-fed, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free sources.
Price Evaluation
We calculated the cost per serving for each product to determine its value proposition. Products were then ranked based on their price relative to the quality and quantity of collagen they offered.
While ensuring quality, we also identified products that offered good value for money to cater to budget-conscious consumers.
Types Of Collagen In The Body
While there are 5 main collagen types, three of these are more commonly found in the human body.
Some of the above product recommendations will have you covered for all 5 [3], but this is not always necessary.
The 3 main ones to make sure you get are:
- Type I: Needed for skin, tendons, and bones
- Type II: Mostly found in cartilage
- Type V: Found in cell surfaces and hair
"Type II Collagen is less prevalent within our bodies, it still offers great benefit to the aging body by promoting joint and cartilage health!"
- Taylor Kiser, Food & Nutrition Blogger
Getting these 3 types through supplements, along with some vitamin boosts, can make a significant difference to your health and appearance.
Benefits Of Collagen Supplements
While collagen is needed in practically all vital organs of your body, it mainly provides noticeable health benefits in these 3 areas.
1 - Joint Health
Many studies have identified the direct link between collagen intake and joint health.
One particularly interesting trial looked at the impacts on arthritis and revealed that it also provided an anti-inflammatory effect [4].
When coupled with a stringent weight loss diet, many people can make a significant difference in the health of their tendons and cartilage.
2 - Skin Health
Collagen is one of the most dominant substances needed for regenerating skin cells. You'll find it in many beauty products and skin creams, but taking it in the form of supplements can have the most significant impact on skin elasticity [5].
Many people are amazed how quickly it will impact the appearance of their skin, with even better results than topical skin application.
3 - Bone Density
Most people tend to just think of calcium intake when it comes to making sure that their bones remain healthy. But bone mineral density is also very heavily reliant on vitamins and collagen [6].
Collagen production in the body goes down once you hit the young age of 20, with a reduction of about 1% per year [7]. This explains the initial wrinkles but eventually leads to more problematic issues with bone density.
4 - Cardiovascular Health
Collagen supplements may support a healthy cardiovascular system. Some individuals who used collagen tripeptide for six months experienced a significant reduction in artery stiffness and a decrease in bad cholesterol levels.
5- Hair and Nails
Collagen plays an important role in promoting healthy nail and hair growth. By integrating collagen supplements into your daily regimen, you can achieve stronger, more resilient nails and luscious, vibrant hair.
Buyer's Guide
Here are the four factors you should consider when choosing the best collagen protein powder:
Type Of Collagen Supplements
Types I, II, and V collagen are the most important ones to improve your physical appearance as well as joint health. I would always focus on these first, as they give you the most impact without needing to choose some of the more expensive options.
Look for hydrolyzed collagen, also known as collagen peptides, which is a form of collagen broken down to be more easily absorbed by the body. Hydrolyzed collagen has been linked to a number of health benefits, including skin health and enhanced collagen production in the body.
Notably, it's vital to consider the blend of collagen types in your chosen supplement. Products like vital proteins collagen peptides offer a balanced blend of Types I and III collagen, which supports skin, hair, nail, and bone health.
It's also important to remember the role of Vitamin C in collagen production. Vitamin C is essential for the body to synthesize collagen, so it's worth considering collagen powders that include this nutrient or ensuring you're getting enough Vitamin C from your diet or other supplements.
Source Of Collagen
You can get collagen from all types of animals, but the best options are from grass-fed hormone, and antibiotic-free cows. If you want to get the full range of all collagen types mentioned above, then you'll need a supplement sourced from different animals, including fish.
Source of collagen is especially important if you're a vegan or a vegetarian. While collagen usually comes from animal sources, there are still opportunities to reap the benefits of collagen without compromising your ethical and dietary standards.
There's a variety of vegan and vegetarian alternative collagen options, derived from non-animal sources. These plant-based alternatives offer the same skin, hair, and nail benefits as traditional collagen supplements. Some examples are collagen from plant-based amino acids, algae, and genetically modified yeast and bacteria.
Flavor
Some collagen supplements are available as flavored options, but I generally prefer to have something that is completely tasteless. The advantage of this is that you can easily mix it with drinks or into your breakfast cereal for a quick boost in the morning.
Unflavored collagen powders or supplements offer the most versatility. You can mix these into a variety of foods and drinks without altering their taste. However, flavored options are available for those who prefer them.
Budget
Budget is, of course, an important factor. While it might be tempting to opt for cheaper collagen powders, keep in mind that you're investing in your health. High-quality collagen supplements, like vital proteins collagen peptides, while more costly, offer a more effective and digestible form of collagen. Therefore, they could give you better value for your money in the long run.
FAQs
Is Collagen Protein Powder Good For You?
Yes, taking collagen protein powder is good for you as your body will gradually produce less of it as you age. For performance athletes, it's best to take some regularly to ensure ligaments and tendons are adequately repaired.
Should You Take Collagen Protein Powder in the Morning or at Night?
You should take collagen protein powder in the morning with your breakfast. This gives you a consistent supply throughout the day. If you do some high-intensity training, then you can also take some along with your post-workout recovery drink.
Does Collagen Protein Powder Make You Gain Weight?
No, collagen protein powder doesn't make you gain weight unless you're taking it in large doses and not exercising enough. As part of a balanced diet, and along with a regular exercise routine, it can have the opposite effect.
How Much Collagen Should You Take?
You should aim to take about 10 grams of collagen for regular daily use. On training days where your body comes under more stress, about twice that amount is the best option to ensure optimal joint health.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Collagen Protein Powder?
Side effects of taking collagen protein powder are generally very rare, though some people experience bloating, gas, and nausea. In most cases where I found comments in forums and Facebook groups, the reason was mainly due to taking very large doses.
Our Verdict on the Best Collagen Powder
Having personally tested numerous collagen products, I consistently find myself gravitating back to CIRA Glow-Getter.
It's not just about the optimal dose of collagen it offers; the added vitamins play a crucial role in enhancing the health of my skin, hair, nails, and joints. Every scoop feels like a step towards a healthier, more radiant me.
If you're on the hunt for a collagen powder that truly delivers, whether you're an athlete or someone simply aiming for a youthful glow, CIRA Glow-Getter is the way to go.
Our #1 Recommendation
CIRA Glow-Getter Collagen (Best Overall With Vitamins for Joints and Skin)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Provides 10 grams of collagen to support joints, skin, and gut health
- Mixes easily with water and suitable for blending with smoothies
- Comes in both flavored and unflavored options for mixing with food
- Added vitamins may help support healthy hair, skin, and nails
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- Not suitable for vegetarians/vegans since it's bovine collagen
About The Author
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I’ve been trying collagen powders for a while and found they work best accompanied by a balanced diet rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C.