Many well-known brands use big marketing campaigns, often featuring celebrity endorsements, to push their products. But, when you take a closer look, do these brands really back up their claims with high-quality ingredients and proven results?

Collagen is one of the hottest supplements on the market, but choosing the right one can be tricky. Understanding what to look for—and what to avoid—is key to finding a supplement that truly delivers. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of what to look for in a collagen supplement and explore the potential benefits of adding collagen to your daily routine.

Plus, we’ve handpicked the top collagen supplements this year to help make your decision easier.

Why should you be taking a collagen supplement?

The collagen market is projected to soar to $5.3 billion by 2026—and for good reason.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, vital for maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones, and even supporting muscle growth and overall wellness. Unfortunately, collagen production naturally begins to decline in your mid-20s. By age 30, most people lose about 1% of their collagen each year.

This decline leads to weaker hair and nails, reduced joint flexibility, loss of skin elasticity, and more noticeable wrinkles. ^[1,2]

Collagen Decline Can Lead To:

❌ Wrinkles, sagging, and dullness in the skin ^[1,2]

❌ Weaker, more brittle hair & nails ^[1,2]

❌ Discomfort in joints, muscles, and bones ^[2,3]  

It seems simple—just take a collagen supplement to replenish that loss, right? But not all collagen supplements are created equally.

Some brands use collagen that the body can’t absorb, meaning much of it passes through your system without delivering any real benefits.

That’s why it’s crucial to choose a supplement with Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, which are broken down into smaller amino acids that the body can digest and absorb more effectively.

WARNING: Not All Collagen Supplements Are The Same

Research shows that Type I collagen plays a key role in enhancing skin health, particularly in improving skin elasticity and hydration. It’s a top pick for addressing common signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Bovine collagen is one of the most prevalent sources of this essential collagen type. ^[2,3]

Bovine collagen, rich in both types I and III, offers key joint health benefits by providing the amino acids necessary to support joint mobility and flexibility. This makes it a great option for those seeking to reduce joint discomfort, particularly as they age or engage in physical activities. ^[4]

Type III collagen, in combination with Type I, plays a vital role in maintaining skin structure and joint flexibility. These two types of collagen work together to support smooth movement, improve skin firmness, and enhance overall mobility, making bovine collagen highly effective for both beauty and joint health. ^[2]

What to Look For

What to Steer Clear Of

• Amino Acid & Collagen Quantity:

Check the label for collagen content and amino acid profile. While some brands boast larger collagen doses, it’s important to remember that more isn’t always better—quality matters more than quantity. Most quality brands also provide a detailed amino acid profile.

• Hydrolyzed Collagen:

Choose a collagen supplement that has been enzymatically hydrolyzed, which breaks the protein into smaller peptide chains for better absorption. Avoid products treated with chemicals, as this can reduce the quality of the amino acids.

• Taste & Mixability:

Some collagen supplements tend to have an unpleasant taste & odor, often accompanied by poor mixability. To make daily use easier, choose one that blends smoothly and is flavorless, so you can enjoy it in your favorite drinks or foods without any issues.

• Quality & Purity:

When choosing a collagen supplement, opt for one made with 100% pure hydrolyzed collagen without unnecessary fillers or additives. It's also best to select collagen sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine or sustainably harvested seafood for higher quality and ethical sourcing.

• Untraceable Collagen Source:

Not knowing the specific origin of collagen used in a supplement can raise concerns about both quality and effectiveness. It's important to know where your collagen comes from to avoid potential issues and to guarantee you're getting the intended benefits.

• Artificial Fillers & Additives:

Steer clear of collagen supplements containing unnecessary additives or fillers, as these can reduce effectiveness. Opt for 100% hydrolyzed collagen, free from synthetic ingredients or fillers, to ensure you're maximizing the benefits.

• Lack of Independent Testing:

Choose supplements that have been verified for purity and potency through third-party lab testing.

• Lack of Transparency:

Always thoroughly review the ingredient list and prioritize brands that are fully transparent, ensuring they have nothing to hide about their product's contents.

• Artificial Flavors & Sweeteners:

• Collagen Type:

Look for collagen types I and III, which are crucial for supporting skin elasticity, hydration, and joint health. These types are commonly found in bovine collagen, making it a versatile choice for overall wellness.

Some brands include artificial flavors and sweeteners, which can add unwanted chemicals and calories, diminishing the natural benefits of collagen. Always check for added sugars and extra calories that can detract from the supplement's purity and effectiveness.

#1

Mobility Collagen Peptides

by Fernes ^[5]

ESSENTIAL TAKEAWAYS

• GREAT FOR: Skin, hair, nails, joints, bones, gut & recovery*
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I & III
• DERIVED FROM: Brazilian pasture-raised, grass-fed bovine
• TASTE: Tasteless
• MIXABILITY: 10/10

Score

A+

Overall Score

Pros

• Made in the USA with traceable collagen.
• Features Peptan® collagen – scientifically backed for health benefits.
• Rich in 18 amino acids for full-body support.
• Hydrolyzed and highly bioavailable for better digestion and absorption.
• 100% pure collagen with no additives or fillers.
• Unflavored and odorless for versatile use.
• Dissolves fast without clumping.
• Hassle-free subscription service available.

Cons

• Only available for purchase online.
• Popularity can result in occasional stock shortages.
• Not the cheapest option

Overall Thoughts

What makes Fernes Mobility Collagen Peptides stand out is the inclusion of Peptan® collagen, a scientifically supported collagen peptide known for promoting skin elasticity, hydration, joint health, and more. Each serving contains 10 grams of bioactive hydrolyzed collagen peptides, providing essential amino acids for full-body wellness.

We found that this unflavored powder dissolves easily in both hot and cold beverages, making it a seamless addition to coffee, smoothies, or even recipes like oatmeal or baked goods. The fact that it’s completely tasteless ensures it won't alter the taste or texture of your food.

Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, Fernes Mobility Collagen Peptides is made in the USA and third-party lab-tested, guaranteeing purity and quality. With no fillers or artificial additives, it offers a clean, pure collagen supplement that’s easy for the body to absorb.

Fernes also offers a convenient Subscribe & Save program, which provides a 20% discount on each order, making it cost-effective to maintain your collagen routine. Plus, the 365-day money-back guarantee adds an extra layer of confidence.

Overall, Fernes Mobility Collagen Peptides offers excellent value, combining bioavailability, scientific backing, and a strong commitment to quality, making it a great option for joint and skin health.

#2

Collagen Peptides

by Native Path

ESSENTIAL TAKEAWAYS

• GREAT FOR: Skin, hair, nails, joints, & bones
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I & III
• DERIVED FROM: South American grass-fed & pasture-raised bovine
• TASTE: Neutral
• MIXABILITY: 6/10

Score

B+

Overall Score

Pros

• Made in the USA
• Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine in South America
• Hydrolyzed collagen for easy absorption
• No odor or unpleasant taste
• Contains only one ingredient
• Convenient subscription service available

Cons

• Collagen source not fully specified
• Only 25 servings per container
• Contains 50mg of sodium per serving
• Difficult to dissolve fully

Overall Thoughts

Native Path Collagen Peptides offer hydrolyzed, unflavored type I and III collagen, sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised South American bovine. However, the sourcing details remain somewhat vague, which raises concerns as you want to look for full transparency. Additionally, the collagen in this formula is not backed by scientific studies, unlike some other brands in the market.

While the powder contains only one ingredient—pure collagen peptides—it doesn’t dissolve easily in liquids, making it more challenging for daily use. On the positive side, the powder is odorless and free from any unpleasant taste, which is ideal for an unflavored supplement. The formula also includes 50mg of sodium per serving, which could be a consideration for those monitoring sodium intake.

Native Path offers a 10% discount on the first order with their subscription service, providing a modest saving. However, with only 25 servings per container, it may not last as long as other collagen supplements on the market.

#3

Collagen Peptides Advanced

by Vital Proteins

ESSENTIAL TAKEAWAYS

• GREAT FOR: Skin, hair, nails, & joints
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I & III
• DERIVED FROM: Bovine (Source Unknown)
• TASTE: A tad salty
• MIXABILITY: 7.5/10

Score

B-

Overall Score

Pros

• Made in the USA
• Hydrolyzed collagen for easy absorption
• Contains added Vitamin C & HA
• Convenient subscription service available

Cons

• Contains 110mg of sodium per serving
• Collagen and ingredient sources are unspecified
• Only 13 servings per container
• Does not come with a scoop for easy measuring
• Lacks a satisfaction guarantee

Overall Thoughts

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Advanced offers a convenient way to add collagen into your daily routine, featuring hydrolyzed, unflavored peptides that mix easily into beverages or foods. However, it requires a relatively large serving size of 20g, which is higher than many comparable options. Often, when larger doses are needed, it can indicate that the collagen might not be as potent or effective.

The product contains 110mg of sodium per serving, which may be a concern for those watching their sodium intake. This sodium content also slightly affects the taste. Moreover, the product doesn’t include a scoop, making it inconvenient to measure out the correct serving size.

A lack of transparency regarding the collagen's source raises further concerns, as it doesn't specify where the collagen or other ingredients are derived from. Plus, without a satisfaction guarantee, customers may find themselves without recourse if the product doesn't meet their expectations.

#4

Multi Collagen Protein

by Ancient Nutrition

ESSENTIAL TAKEAWAYS

• GREAT FOR: Skin, hair, nails, joints, & gut
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I, III, IV, V, VII, VIII, X, XII, XXII
• DERIVED FROM: Bovine, chicken, eggshell membrane & fish (Sources Unknown)
• TASTE: Noticeable aftertaste
• MIXABILITY: 4/10

Score

C

Overall Score

Pros

• Made from pasture-raised and grass-fed sources
• Hydrolyzed bovine collagen for easy absorption
• Contains added Vitamin C & Probiotics
• Convenient subscription service available

Cons

• Unspecified sodium amount
• Collagen and ingredient sources are unspecified
• Contains allergens like fish and eggs

Overall Thoughts

Ancient Nutrition’s Multi Collagen Protein offers 10g of hydrolyzed collagen per scoop, along with probiotics and vitamin C. However, this product has several notable downsides that make it less appealing for those seeking high-quality collagen supplements.

First, the origins of the collagen and other ingredients are left unspecified, which raises concerns about transparency and quality control. Additionally, the product contains allergens like fish and eggs, making it unsuitable for individuals with dietary sensitivities. The dissolvability of this powder also falls short, struggling to mix smoothly, even in warm beverages.

Another issue is that the sodium content is not disclosed, which is a vital consideration for those monitoring their sodium intake. Priced higher than many alternatives, this product doesn’t deliver the value or performance expected at this cost, making it less than ideal for those looking for a superior collagen option.

#5

Super Youth Collagen

by Skinny Fit

ESSENTIAL TAKEAWAYS

• GREAT FOR: Skin, hair, nails, & joints
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I, II, III, V, X
• DERIVED FROM: Bovine, chicken, eggshell & fish (Sources Unknown)
• TASTE: Noticeable aftertaste
• MIXABILITY: 7/10

Score

C

Overall Score

Pros

• Contains hydrolyzed bovine collagen for easy absorption
• Contains added Vitamin C, HA, ACV, Probiotics, & Fiber
• Convenient subscription service available

Cons

• Has an aftertaste
• Collagen and ingredient sources are unspecified
• Contains allergens like fish and eggs

Overall Thoughts

SkinnyFit's Super Youth Collagen offers a multi-source collagen blend with 15.6g of hydrolyzed collagen per serving, derived from bovine, fish, chicken, and eggshell membranes. This formula also includes vitamin C, apple cider vinegar, and hyaluronic acid, with about 28 servings per container.

While the additional ingredients may offer added benefits, the inclusion of fish and eggshell membranes could be a concern for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Additionally, the origins of the collagen and ingredients are unspecified, which raises transparency and quality control concerns. Although the powder dissolves fairly well, we noticed a slight aftertaste, likely due to the variety of collagen sources and added ingredients.

The serving size is relatively large at 2 scoops (20g), which is higher than many comparable options. Often, when larger doses are required, it can indicate a less potent formula. At $99.95 per container for a one-time purchase, this product is also priced higher than other collagen options without clear advantages.

CITATIONS

DISCLAIMER: The scientific research presented is solely for informational purposes. Individual results may differ. We provide this information as a service and do not endorse its contents. This material should not  be regarded as an endorsement or recommendation of any specific products. 

*These statements have not been reviewed by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Please note: The information provided on this website or by this company should not replace a personal consultation with your physician and should not be taken as personalized medical advice. The testimonials featured on this site reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee similar results for everyone. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information available on this website, is intended for general informational purposes only.

Any trademarks displayed on our website are owned by their respective holders, and no endorsement by them of our website or services is implied or expressed. Rankings may be influenced by our relationships with the top picks featured.

[5] We maintain financial relationships with some of our top picks and partners.

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[1] Lippiello L, Woodward J, Karpman R, Hammad TA. "Chondroprotective effects of glycosaminoglycans on human articular cartilage explants in vitro." Am J Ther. 1994 May;1(2):84-91. PMID: 8043384

[2] Jiang JX, Yu S, Huang QR, Zhang XL. "Efficacy and Safety of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, the Two in Combination, or Celecoxib in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee." Sci Rep. 2019 Nov 25;9(1):17417. PMC6891674

[3] Dai Z, Wang R, Ang LW, Low YL, Yuan JM, Koh WP. "Protective effects of dietary carotenoids on risk of hip fracture in men: The Singapore Chinese Health Study." Osteoporos Int. 2016 Feb;27(2):681-9. PMID: 26840887

[4] Kapoor S, Agrawal DK, Mittal SK. "Proteoglycans in the compressive strength of cartilage." Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2002 Oct;(403 Suppl). PMC10058045