I've long recommended collagen supplements to my clients for their myriad health benefits. However, finding a collagen supplement that's both effective and easy to incorporate into a daily routine can be a challenge.
The key lies in selecting the right type. Some are excellent for digestive health, while others are more suited for boosting immunity or improving mental well-being.
To address this, I collaborated with a group of clients and a seasoned dietitian. Over several months, we engaged in thorough testing and research, exploring a wide range of probiotic supplements.
Here's the insight we gathered.
The Best Collagen Supplements
- Best Overall Collagen Supplement: Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious
- Cheapest Collagen Supplement: Youtheory Collagen
- Best Collagen With Vitamin C: Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious
- Best Collagen Powder: Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious
- Best Collagen Capsules: Purely Optimal Collagen Complex
- Best Collagen Pills for Wrinkles and Skin: Transparent Labs
- Best Non-GMO Collagen Pills: Dr. Emil's Nutrition Multi-Collagen Plus
- Best Collagen Blend from Mixed Sources: Caribou Nutrition Multi-Collagen Pills
- Best Collagen Capsules for Joints and Nails: Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious
- Best Collagen Supplement for Athletes: Transparent Labs
- Best Pure Marine Collagen Supplement: NutriRise Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex
12 Best Collagen Supplements (July 2024)
1 - Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious (Best Overall Powder & for Joints and Nails)
- Price per serving : $1.04
- Key ingredients : Bovine collagen
- all flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps strengthen the joints and nails
- Brings out the radiance of the hair and skin
- Contains five different collagen types
- The powder is flavorless and mixes easily into hot or cold drinks
Cons
- Proprietary collagen blend
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking joint and nail strengthening
- Suitable for those looking for skin and hair benefits
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer a non-blend, single source collagen
Final Verdict
Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious offers a comprehensive solution for joint, hair, skin, and nail health with a multi-collagen blend. It's highly effective but not ideal for those seeking single-source collagen.
Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious takes the top spot on our list with its rich ingredient profile and noticeable physical effects.
This non-GMO product contains five different types of all-natural collagen, 20 amino acids, vitamin C, and biotin, which all work together to bring out the strength and beauty of your joints, hair, skin, and nails [1]. These ingredients also help improve your health at a cellular level, according to research from Molecular Diversity Preservation International [2].
After personally testing this product, we observed accelerated nail growth, improved nail health, and potential joint support following intense workout sessions.
2 - Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate (Best for Athletes & for Skin)
- Price per serving : $1.16
- Key ingredients : Hydrolyzed collagen
- all flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in the most effective form of collagen
- Helps reduce wrinkles and skin aging
- Supports bone and joint health
- Hydrolysate form means better mixability and absorption
Cons
- Uses stevia as a sweetener
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Athletes needing recovery support
- Anyone looking to improve skin elasticity and reduce aging signs
Who is it not for?
- People who avoid products with sweeteners like stevia
Final Verdict
This product stands out for its high absorbency and effectiveness in skin and joint health, making it excellent for athletes and those concerned with aging. Not recommended for those sensitive to stevia.
Transparent Labs earns the second spot on our list for its effectiveness, purity, and label accuracy.
The company’s collagen hydrolysate is a peptide supplement, an effective collagen form. Therefore, it works better in reducing visible signs of aging, improving bone and joint health, and aiding recovery for athletes [3].
I found that it mixes easily, whether you blend it with water, milk, or coffee.
It’s also free of gluten, GMOs, artificial sweeteners, coloring, and preservatives, making it one of the cleanest collagen products on the market.
3 - Purely Optimal Collagen Complex (Best Capsules)
- Price per serving : $0.69
- Key ingredients : Multi Collagen (Types I
- II
- III
- V
- X)
- all flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy-to-swallow capsules
- Claimed to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks
- Helps protect bones and joints
- Contains 5 major collagen types
Cons
- It may cause an allergic reaction in some users
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals dealing with joint issues
- Those seeking to improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles
Who is it not for?
- People who prefer vegan or vegetarian supplements
Final Verdict
Purely Optimal Collagen Complex is great for bone strength and skin health, packed into easy-to-take capsules. However, it's not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Purely Optimal Collagen Complex deserves the first place on our list of the best collagen supplements. What we love about their Collagen Complex is the fact that their bovine collagen source is grass-fed. It has five different types of collagen, all packed into one easy-to-swallow pill.
It also works to strengthen bones with a formula entirely free of GMOs.
This supplement has been a significant relief for my joint pain. Furthermore, numerous users struggling with conditions like arthritis, joint pain, tendon discomfort, and chronic pain have echoed the effectiveness of this product.
4 - Dr. Emil's Nutrition Multi-Collagen Plus (Best Non-GMO)
- Price per serving : $0.60
- Key ingredients : Multi Collagen (Types I
- II
- III
- V
- X) + Biotin
- all flavors : Biotin+Multi Collagen
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to contain collagen type 1, 2, 3, 5 & 10
- May work well for joint, hair, skin, and nails
- Non GMO and no unnecessary fillers
- Comes in easy to swallow capsules
Cons
- Full dose requires three capsules in one go
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users looking for a comprehensive collagen type blend
- Those concerned with hair, skin, and nail health
Who is it not for?
- People who do not like taking multiple capsules daily
Final Verdict
Dr. Emil's offers a blend of several collagen types in one capsule, focusing on joint, hair, and nail benefits. The need for multiple capsules per dose may be a drawback for some.
Based on tests, we found that Dr. Emil’s may have the best all-around effects due to a full range of collagen types and a high dose sourced from chicken bone broth [4].
I also found that the capsules seem easy to swallow. If you're not a fan of powdered supplements, this collagen hydrolysate is the one to try.
5 - Caribou Nutrition Multi-Collagen Pills (Best from Various Sources)
- Price per serving : $0.32
- Key ingredients : Multi Collagen (Types I
- II
- III
- V
- X)
- all flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Uses a unique blend of chicken, grass fed bovine, and marine collagen
- Some positive reports that it may help with joint pain
- May also help to boost stomach and gut health
Cons
- It’s not cheap
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals looking for diverse collagen sources
- Those with joint and digestive health needs
Who is it not for?
- People looking for a collagen powder instead of pills
Final Verdict
Caribou Nutrition's collagen pills provide benefits from various sources, making them great for joint and gut health. Not suitable for those preferring powder form.
Caribou has aimed to create a collagen supplement with a broad mix of sources, including grass-fed, pasture-raised cows.
This may provide a higher purity that many reviewers say improves the vibrance of their skin, hair, and nails.
Additionally, our test results revealed that it may help support your gut health and digestion.
6 - Orphic Nutrition Premium Collagen Peptides
- Price per serving : $0.73
- Key ingredients : Multi Collagen (Types I
- II
- III
- V
- X)
- all flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Seems to work well for skin, hair, and nails
- Doesn’t leave a smell or aftertaste
- Online comments are positive about joint and back pain relief
Cons
- Pills seem to be quite large
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People with joint and back pain
- Those needing skin, hair, and nail enhancements
Who is it not for?
- Individuals preferring non-pill forms of supplements
Final Verdict
Orphic Nutrition is effective for joint pain relief and improving hair and skin quality. It may not be ideal for those who dislike taking pills.
What stood out for us with this product is that the collagen peptides helped with joint and back pain.
The vital proteins it provides seem to target soft tissue in those areas. And my personal issues from an old knee injury seemed to improve a lot.
7 - Youtheory Collagen (Cheapest Option)
- Price per serving : $0.41
- Key ingredients : Collagen type 1, 2 & 3, Vitamin C
- Third-party tested : No information
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Might be the most suitable for joint issues due to high dose
- Contains some added vitamin C
- Dairy, soy, and gluten free option to avoid allergies
Cons
- Only contains three types of collagen
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those with significant joint issues
- People looking for a high-dose supplement
Who is it not for?
- Individuals seeking a collagen type I, II, or III only product
Final Verdict
Youtheory Collagen provides a high dose of collagen, beneficial for severe joint problems but limited in collagen variety, which might not suit everyone's needs.
This is one of the few collagen supplements we found with the added bonus of some vitamin C.
It’s also one of the highest doses we could find, which might make it suitable for anyone with significant joint issues.
However, our tests showed that it might not be as effective for your skin and nails.
8 - Physician's Choice Bioactive Collagen Pills
- Price per serving : $0.51
- Key ingredients : Hydrolyzed collagen peptides
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Specifically formulated for women to help with the appearance of skin and hair
- Reports of it showing improvements within four weeks
- The vitamin c and grass fed source of bovine collagen should also promote healthy joints and bones
Cons
- You’ll have to remember to take five pills
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Women targeting anti-aging benefits
- Those needing skin and hair health improvement
Who is it not for?
- People who dislike consuming multiple pills daily
Final Verdict
Physician's Choice is tailored for women's anti-aging needs with added benefits for skin and hair. The requirement to take multiple pills may not appeal to all.
This is a product that has been created for anti-aging benefits in women. We noted in quite a few reviews that it might help to improve skin elasticity within about four weeks.
I also liked that it has some vitamin C mixed with it, so it may also help with immunity [5].
Our tests showed that it may also improve your joints and reduce inflammation. But for the full dose, you’ll need to swallow five pills.
9 - Zeal Naturals Collagen Peptides
- Price per serving : $0.45
- Key ingredients : Hydrolyzed collagen peptides
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Uses hydrolyzed grass fed collagen from cows for better quality
- Keto and paleo friendly due to no carb fillers
- Positive reports that it may help with joint health within weeks
Cons
- Swallowing six capsules might not suit everyone
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking joint health support
- Those following keto or paleo diets
Who is it not for?
- People who are not comfortable with swallowing multiple capsules
Final Verdict
Zeal Naturals supports joint health and is keto-friendly, but the large pill size may be inconvenient for some users.
Another one of the stronger products available is Zea Naturals Collagen Peptides.
It also contains the amino acids that work to keep your skin and joints healthy and does not have any carbohydrate fillers [6].
The only thing I’d say is that I really struggled swallowing six capsules, which obviously might not suit everyone, in which case you may want to consider a collagen powder supplement.
10 - NutriRise Hydrolyzed Collagen Complex (Best Pure Marine Collagen)
- Price per serving : $0.67
- Key ingredients : Hydrolyzed bovine and chicken collagen, marine collagen, eggshell membrane
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains the most important collagen types
- Sourced from wild caught fish and sustainable stocks
- Certified gluten free and non GMO for added peace of mind
Cons
- Might leave a slightly fishy aftertaste
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People interested in marine collagen benefits
- Those looking for non-GMO and gluten-free options
Who is it not for?
- Individuals sensitive to fishy aftertaste
Final Verdict
NutriRise offers pure marine collagen, which is great for those seeking ethical, high-quality sources. However, the potential fishy aftertaste may be off-putting for some.
This is one of few collagen supplements that is purely based on marine sources. By using wild-caught and sustainable fish stocks, it claims to provide a higher quality source of the main types of collagen.
Just keep in mind that you might get a slightly fishy aftertaste, which 60% of our trial participants found a bit too strong. In that case, you may want to consider another brand instead.
11 - Reserveage Ultra Collagen Booster
- Price per serving : $1.18
- Key ingredients : Hydrolyzed collagen, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid and an herbal blend for added skin benefits
- Specifically formulated for women
- Capsules seem to be easy to swallow compared to a collagen powder
Cons
- Not the strongest dose available
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Women looking for enhanced skin texture
- Those interested in added herbal benefits for detox and rejuvenation
Who is it not for?
- People looking for a high collagen dose in their supplement
Final Verdict
Reserveage is tailored for women seeking to enhance skin appearance through a blend with herbal extracts. It may not be the best choice for those requiring higher collagen doses.
This is another one formulated as a beauty enhancer for women.
It comes with hyaluronic acid and an added herbal blend that suggests it may help to detox and rejuvenate your skin [7].
In our trials, female participants noted a noticeable improvement in their skin texture as a result of using this product for two months.
However, we found that it has a considerably lower dose than the above products, so consider that when comparing the prices.
12 - Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- Price per serving : $1.45 per ounce
- Key ingredients : Bovine hide collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good bulk serving option
- Positive reports on it promoting skin health
- Some users have reported relief for joint issues
Cons
- The capsules are pretty large to get used
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People needing a bulk collagen option
- Those focusing on skin health improvements
Who is it not for?
- Individuals who have difficulty with large pills
Final Verdict
Vital Proteins offers a bulk option that's well-regarded for skin health, but the large pill size may not be suitable for everyone.
This is the final collagen peptides supplement we’ll recommend, and we like it because it’s available in a nice bulk-order bottle.
There are also positive reviews about its effects on skin health due to its amino acid profile, which may be particularly interesting to women [8].
However, most of the trial participants found that the pills were pretty large, so you may want to break them down a bit.
How Did We Choose The Best Collagen Supplements
In our quest to find the best collagen supplements, we took into account several key criteria and based our recommendations on thorough research and testing, and then rating each criteria.
Collagen Content
We primarily focused on supplements with collagen content in the range of 5-10 grams, with 8 grams being the ideal amount for many health and beauty enthusiasts. From our evaluations, this quantity of collagen seems to provide the most benefits for skin, hair, and joint health.
Collagen Source
The origin of the collagen is paramount. We prioritized supplements derived from high-quality sources, such as marine, bovine, or chicken. We also considered if the collagen was sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised, or wild-caught origins.
Additional Nutrients
While collagen is the main ingredient, we also looked at supplements that contained added vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial compounds. However, we ensured that these additions didn't overshadow the primary collagen content.
Taste and Flavor
For collagen powders, taste is a significant factor, especially since collagen inherently has a neutral flavor. We favored supplements that managed to provide a good taste without adding sugars or artificial flavors.
Mixability
A collagen supplement's mixability is crucial for those who prefer to blend it in drinks or food. We assessed how seamlessly each product mixed into various liquids, ensuring no clumpy residues.
Digestion and Side Effects
Feedback from our testers was invaluable here. They reported on the digestibility of each collagen supplement and any associated side effects, such as stomach upset or allergic reactions.
Third-Party Verification
To ensure the authenticity and purity of the collagen supplements, we looked for those that had undergone third-party testing. This step reassures consumers about the product's quality and ingredient integrity.
Cost
Collagen supplements can have a wide price range, often influenced by their source, purity, and brand reputation. We aimed to spotlight products that offered good value, typically falling within the $0.50 to $1.50 range per 25 grams of pure protein.
Buyer's Guide for the Best Collagen Supplement
To choose the right collagen, consider factors like the sources and types of collagen in the supplement and the dosage.
1 - Compare The Dosage
The good thing with collagen supplements is that they are pretty easy to compare based on the dosage. Compared to the powdered form, a collagen pill is also a lot easier to take if you need a higher dosage.
This is much more important than looking at the number of servings, which could be a bit misleading.
If you have serious joint issues, then aim for something stronger, like supplements designed for relieving joint pain. And if you want to boost your appearance, then a lower dose may work fine.
2 - Pay Attention To The Collagen Source And Types
Collagen supplements and pills can be sourced from many different animal products. Chicken, cows, and eggs are very common, but marine collagen is becoming more popular as a sustainable option.
The important thing to look out for is the type of collagen the supplement contains. The main ones for the human body are types I, II, III, V, and X [9].
The blend of these collagen types with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants maintains skin elasticity and texture and promotes better collagen production in the body [10].
We generally recommend getting all of them in one supplement, as this may give you the best overall results.
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Collagen and Vegetarians/Vegans
For vegetarians and vegans, the use of traditional collagen supplements, often derived from animal sources, poses ethical dilemmas. While there's no direct plant-based source of collagen, certain foods can boost the body's natural collagen production.
Ingredients like lysine-rich legumes, vitamin C-packed fruits, and silica sources like bell peppers and leafy greens can help. Additionally, some companies offer "vegan collagen" made through a fermentation process using genetically modified yeast and bacteria.
These products don't contain actual collagen but offer pro-collagen benefits by providing the essential amino acids and vitamins required for its synthesis, ensuring ethical consumption without compromising on health benefits.
Collagen in Foods
While no plant foods contain collagen, several are rich in nutrients that support collagen production. Bone broth, made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues, is a direct source of collagen.
Fish, especially the skin, is abundant in marine collagen, known for its enhanced bioavailability. Chicken skin and pork skin are also collagen-rich. Egg whites contain proline, an amino acid essential for collagen synthesis [11].
For vegetarians, foods like berries, tomatoes, and bell peppers, rich in vitamin C, play a crucial role in collagen production. Incorporating these foods into one's diet can be a natural way to boost collagen levels without relying on supplements.
Potential Side Effects of Collagen
Collagen supplements are widely regarded as safe for most individuals. However, some users have reported minor side effects, including digestive discomfort, skin rashes, and a lingering bad taste.
Overconsumption might lead to hypercalcemia, especially in supplements derived from marine sources. It's also crucial to consider the origin of the collagen; products from fish might cause allergic reactions in some.
Additionally, those with liver or kidney disorders should be cautious, as high protein intake can exacerbate these conditions [12].
FAQs
Which Form of Collagen Is Most Effective?
Type I is the most effective form of collagen. It is the most abundant form of collagen naturally present in the body, playing a crucial role in maintaining collagen levels within the skin, hair, and nails.
How Long Should I Take Collagen?
You should take collagen for eight to twelve weeks daily for enhanced skin and hair health. In cases of arthritis, a daily dosage of ten grams of collagen peptides, divided into one to two doses, is advised for approximately five months.
Our Verdict on The Best Collagen Supplement
Of all the collagen supplements we tested, we found that Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious had the best effects on the whole body.
It has five different types of collagen and is complimented by biotin and vitamin C, amplifying its beautifying and strengthening effects on the hair, skin, nails, and joints.
Also, I found it doesn’t alter the taste of the beverage you mix it into and dissolves very easily.
If you want to get the benefits of collagen supplementation, this one is certainly worth adding to your regimen.
Our #1 Recommendation
Beyond Collagen by Live Conscious (Best Overall Powder & for Joints and Nails)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Helps strengthen the joints and nails
- Brings out the radiance of the hair and skin
- Contains five different collagen types
- The powder is flavorless and mixes easily into hot or cold drinks
- Proprietary collagen blend
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