9 best collagen supplements 2025, tested and reviewed
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The demand for the best collagen supplements is fully understandable, after all, collagen has become practically synonymous with radiant skin, silky-soft hair, strong nails, healthier joints (and the list goes on). From Hailey Bieber's famed “Skin Glaze” smoothie to Jennifer Aniston's collagen-infused coffee, this clever protein's impact on the beauty industry is undeniable.
Yet, the question still stands: do collagen supplements actually work or is it all part of some elaborate marketing scheme? Well, as it turns out, the answer isn't strictly black or white.
It's easy enough to reduce collagen to yet another trending buzzword – especially when so many new product launches come with the good ol' “promotes collagen production” claim attached – but as is the case with any supplements, getting all clued up on what you're about to put into your body is never a bad idea.
SKIP TO FAQs: Our full reviews | What is collagen? | What are the benefits of taking collagen supplements? | How soon can I notice results? | How old should I be to start taking collagen supplements? | How do collagen supplements work? | What is the best form of collagen to take? | What is marine collagen? | Are there any side effects?
What is collagen?
So, what even is collagen? Kirsten Humphreys, nutritional therapist at Bare Biology, shares that it's an essential protein that's already present in our bodies: “your body makes its own collagen proteins from the amino acids proline, glycine and hydroxyproline.” According to Dr Grace Hula, GP, aesthetic doctor and founder of G&M Healthcare, “collagen production depletes as we age, leading to weaker hair and nails as well as the occurrence of fine lines and wrinkles.”
One of the biggest misconceptions about collagen is that it's only meant for people above a certain age, but the lesser known fact is that its benefits stretch way beyond its youth-boosting effects. As Dr Grace told me, this key protein is responsible for a lot more than some might assume: "collagen is found in connective tissues like skin, tendons, ligaments and cartilage, and since it provides structural support, it helps maintain the elasticity and strength of these tissues. It also contributes to the health of your gut lining, which is equally an important factor.” Better yet, according to dermatologist and medical aesthetics expert Dr Elif Benar, collagen also does wonders for your muscular health by promoting the “synthesis of muscle proteins like creatine and stimulates muscle growth after exercise.”
But make no mistake: although innovation within the health and wellness industry resulted in collagen supplements becoming more accessible, choosing the right kind is a lot trickier than you'd think. Dr Emma Cunningham, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics, reveals that their efficacy very much depends on factors like “type of collagen, the amount, and your individual health needs.”
Available in all shapes in forms – from liquid sachets to powders and even gummies – each kind comes with its own set of ambitious claims. However, let me assure you that not all supplements are made with quality and research in mind, so to help you navigate through this confusing process, I'm here to help. Alongside the team of GLAMOUR resident testers, I've been on a mission to scout the most effective and convenient collagen supplements out there, having also consulted with dermatologists, nutritionists and GPs to reveal all the ‘dos and the ’don'ts. Here's everything you need to know.
Disclaimer: keep in mind that this article isn't a substitute for professional medical advice and our recommendations won't replace a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
Meet our expert panel:
| Name | Expertise |
|---|---|
| Dr Elif Benar | Dermatologist and medical aesthetics expert. |
| Dr Grace Hula | GP, aesthetic doctor and founder of G&M Healthcare. |
| Dr Emma Cunningham | Aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics. |
| Kirsten Humphreys | Nutritional therapist at Bare Biology. |
How we tested collagen supplements:
Over the years, the GLAMOUR team has trialled countless collagen supplements featured in this edit. We've tested the formulations over a minimum period of four-six weeks, making sure that everyone who participated in the reviewing process varied in terms of age, skin type and hair type. We assessed the taste – was the taste pleasant enough to take everyday? – value for money, efficacy – how soon did we notice improvements? – customer reviews and dietary requirements. Read: is the formula suitable for vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian diets? Free from additives? Gluten-free? Read on for our results.
What is the most effective collagen supplement?
While budgets and preferences differ, having tested dozens of different collagen supplements first-hand, the GLAMOUR team's top pick has to be the Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides powder, and with good reason. True to its name, it's formulated from collagen peptides, which are essentially soluble pieces of protein derived from bovine collagen or marine collagen. They're also bioavailable, which makes them easier to digest and absorb by your body. The best part? Since they're unflavoured, you can easily enjoy them in whichever way suits you best – be it in a coffee, mixed in with your soup or blended into your smoothies. Our testers noted that there wasn't any artificial aftertaste and that the powder didn't mess with the consistency of the food or drink that they were consuming it with. As an added bonus, it also happens to be Jennifer Aniston's favourite. You're welcome.
When reviewing it over a period of 5 weeks, our Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett noted that her skin started looking more radiant, plump and healthy-looking, plus her hair seemed slightly shinier too. It's also worth mentioning that since she was also taking probiotics at the time, it was trickier to determine whether the improvement to her gut health could be attributed to either one of the supplements. One thing to note is that it's not plant-based since it contains traces of milk, making it unsuitable for vegans.
Ahead, more of the best collagen supplements, reviewed by GLAMOUR.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
Tester: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor.
- Type: Bovine collagen.
- Form: Powder.
- Recommended daily dose: 2 scoops (approx 20g).
- Concentration per serving: 20g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: Each recommended serving contains 20g of pure bovine collagen peptides, which are easily absorbed by your body.
Why we love it: This is the collagen supplement Jennifer Aniston credits for her youthful-looking skin and enviable glow. Whether you're after healthier hair, stronger nails or lit-from-within complexion, the Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides makes easy work of making the process of taking collagen supplements seamless due to its unflavoured nature.
Mix a couple of scoops in with your morning coffee or your protein smoothie and you will forget that there's collagen powder in there in the first place. It's made with collagen peptides, which are soluble pieces of protein derived from bovine collagen or marine collagen but what makes them unique is that they're bioavailable, which also helps them absorb faster. It's also available in 567g, sachets, capsules and even comes in a delicious vanilla flavour. A win.
VIDA GLOW Collagen Liquid Advance
Tester: Fiona Embleton, GLAMOUR's Associate Beauty Director.
- Type: Marine collagen.
- Form: Liquid sachet.
- Recommended daily dose: 1 sachet.
- Concentration per serving: 4.8g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: Sustainably sourced natural collagen, vitamin C, and a blend of pomegranate, blackcurrant, goji berry and acerola cherry extracts for an added boost for your skin health.
Why we love it: Our Associate Beauty Director Fiona Embleton describes these liquid collagen sachets as her “go-to supplement,” and deservedly so. She finds that it's super convenient to take on the go. After all, let's face it, the whole process of measuring a scoop, mixing it in may not be the easiest of processes (especially on the days when we're in the office or running errands).
With this clever supplement, you won't have to worry about dosage, simply through one sachet in your purse, take it on the tube or in-between meetings and you're golden. But apart from its convenient form, the formula of the Vida Glow Collagen Liquid Advance is unmatched when it comes to its youth-boosting benefits. From firming up your skin, reducing signs of aging to maintaining optimal joint and bone health, this hero product is proven to be twice as effective as the original Vida Glow. Where do we sign up?
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Beauty Pie Collagen Super Powder
Tester: Samantha Reynolds, PA to Acting Executive Editor at GLAMOUR UK.
- Type: Marine collagen.
- Form: Powder.
- Recommended daily dose: 1 scoop (approx 11.3g).
- Concentration per serving: 10g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: Collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, biotin, tramella mushrooms for hydrating and plumping, and grape seed extract — which is a potent source of antioxidants.
Why we love it: One of the tastiest collagen supplements in this edit, Beauty Pie's Collagen Peptide contains a 100% natural berry infusion to help cover the taste of seaweed. Best taken with cold water or added to juice or a smoothie. When testing this particular powder, we noticed just how easily it mixed in with water without forming any unwanted weird texture or resulting in an artificial taste.
In fact, it actually ended up tasting like a nice berry lemonade on a hot summer day. Apart from collagen peptides, this collagen supplement is filled to the brim with skin-loving ingredients and antioxidants to help maximise the benefits for your skin's hydration levels. Think: hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, tramella mushrooms and grape seed extract. One of the most effective beauty collagen supplements we've seen.
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- Type: Type 1 and 3 collagen.
- Form: Powder.
- Recommended daily dose: Measure out ¾ scoop (15g) of Clear Collagen 360, once a day.
- Concentration per serving: 15g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: Type 1 and 3 collagen, plus Vitamin C, Zinc, and Selenium to maximise collagen absorption.
Why we love it: Formulated to support healthy collagen formation – and help maintain the normal function of bones, cartilage, skin, gums, teeth, and blood vessels – Protein Works' collagen powder won our hearts for its taste. Because not only is it packed full of collagen types one and three – plus Vitamin C, Zinc, and Selenium to maximise its absorption – but it tastes better than so many collagen supplements we've tried. It comes in either Orange and Mango, Apple and Lemon, unflavoured or Summer Berry Burst. We tried Orange and Mango, which is so refreshing – and the reviews of the other flavours are pretty good, too. We loved that it is sugar-free, and easy to take on-the-go (using the ProteinWorks protein shaker bottle).
Dermatica Collagen Complex Powder
- Type: Marine collagen.
- Form: Powder.
- Recommended daily dose: 2 scoops in cold liquids.
- Concentration per serving: 5g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: Marine collagen peptides, vitamin C, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, vitamins B2 and B3.
Why we love it: If you're after a high-quality marine collagen supplement that also won't break the bank, look no further than the Dermatica Collagen Complex Powder – a powerhouse gluten-and-dairy-free formula that's packed with science-backed antioxidants. The hero ingredient is, of course, the hydrolysed marine collagen, which supports the skin's elasticity and promotes hair strength, nail growth and joint health.
It also comes enriched with the likes of vitamin C, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, vitamins B2 and B3 – all of which are potent antioxidants that work towards protecting your skin against free radical damage. Simply mix it with your cold liquid of choice to make your collagen drink (just remember that it has a subtle sweet flavour) and enjoy.
Bare Biology Skinful Pure Marine Collagen Powder
- Type: Marine collagen.
- Form: Powder.
- Recommended daily dose: Approx 5g.
- Concentration per serving: 5g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: 5g of type one marine collagen peptides that are made from sustainably-caught hydrolysed wild codfish skin in Norway.
Why we love it: Utilising collagen from ethically-sourced hydrolysed wild cod skin – and available in both original and natural strawberry flavours – Bare Biology's Skinful collagen supplement is fast absorbing, and isn't damaged by heat. This means it can be added to soups, muffins, cookies, stews… this list goes on. It's definitely one of the best collagen supplements to mix in with your hot meals or drinks (and yes, there's no aftertaste whatsoever).
When testing this particular formula, we noticed that it fast-dissolving and doesn't require mixing for what seems like forever to get it to completely disappear into whatever it is that you're drinking or eating. The best bit? It genuinely delivers. Within a few weeks of testing, our Beauty Contributor Denise Primbet noted the improvement to her skin's firmness and radiance as well as the quality of her once damaged nails.
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Vida Glow Pro Collagen+ Powder
- Type: Natural marine collagen.
- Form: Powder sachets.
- Recommended daily dose: 1 sachet daily.
- Concentration per serving: Not specified.
- Key ingredients: Natural marine collagen tripeptide, inulin, sodium hyaluronate, kiwi fruit powder, bromelains.
Why we love it: Looking for a collagen supplement that packs a punch and delivers faster results? Say less. The Vida Glow Pro Collagen+ Powder is one of the most innovate formulas on the market. Formulated with natural marine collagen as the hero ingredient, these supplements come in form of pre-dosed powder sachets and are also infused with a clever blend of tripeptide collagen, hyaluronic acid and digestive enzymes.
Better yet, it also uses advanced hydrolysation technology to help it work more effectively and faster. Just make sure not to exceed the daily dosage of one sachet a day (mix it in any liquid that tickles your fancy most). Sure, it may not be the most affordable option out there, but trust us when we tell you that it's well worth the long-term investment.
Marine Liquid Collagen Supplement Drink For Women
- Type: Marine collagen.
- Form: Liquid sachet.
- Recommended daily dose: 1 sachet a day.
- Concentration per serving: 8g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: High-grade hydrolysed marine collagen, and vitamin C.
Why we love it: Since it's the best-selling collagen brand in the UK, the Absolute Collagen's liquid sachets are a natural addition to this expertly curated round-up. Best known for its hard-working and powerful ingredients list that's won them multiple beauty awards, these supplements are formulated with high-grade hydrolysed marine collagen as well as vitamin C for the added hydration and antioxidant benefits.
It's also been repeatedly backed by leading skincare and haircare experts, having been clinically proven to deliver visible results on the skin, hair, and nails — and it can be consumed straight from the easy-rip sachet, or mixed into food and drinks.
JS Health Greens + Collagen Formula
- Type: Marine collagen.
- Form: Powder.
- Recommended dosage: 1 scoop (approx 6.5g).
- Concentration per serving: 5g of collagen.
- Key ingredients: Peptan collagen peptides, wheatgrass, barley grass, organic broccoli, kale, and spinach.
Why we love it: If you're keen to try out a collagen supplement — and also up your greens intake for added fibre— this JS Health powder is well worth considering. Essentially a clinically-backed greens blend (think: wheatgrass, barley grass, organic broccoli, kale, and spinach), this unique formula is enhanced with marine collagen peptides.
Plus, it also comes enriched with a bunch of prebiotics, vitamins, phytonutrients, antioxidants, and has a delicious pineapple mint flavour that's really refreshing when stirred into cold water, or mixed into juices and smoothies. Hands down, one of the best collagen hybrid products we've tried.
Your collagen supplement questions, answered:
What is collagen?
Collagen is a structural protein that consists of essential amino acids such as proline, glycine and hydroxyproline. It's also one of the most essential building blocks that make up 30% of our body's protein and plays a key role in giving us a plumper, healthier and more supple complexion.
“All three (and hydroxyproline in particular) are hard to come by from diet, unless you regularly eat natural sources of collagen such as organ meats or foods such as bone broth,” shares Kirsten Humphreys, nutritional therapist at Bare Biology.
Do collagen supplements genuinely work?
While research is still limited, there is more than enough evidence that backs the benefits of collagen supplements. According to a review and analysis published in the International Journal of Dermatology that had over 1,000 participants, those who used collagen supplements reported an "increased firmness, suppleness, and moisture content of the skin, with wrinkles appearing less noticeable.”
How do collagen supplements work?
“Collagen supplements usually contain hydrolysed collagen peptides, which are small pieces of collagen,” shares Dr Emma Cunningham, aesthetic Doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics.
“When these peptides are ingested, they are absorbed into the bloodstream and sent through the body. These peptides act as signals, stimulating the body's cells to produce more collagen," she shared.
What are the benefits of taking collagen supplements?
Dr Grace Hula, GP, aesthetic doctor and founder of G&M Healthcare shares that taking collagen supplements “can benefit individuals of different age groups. Younger people may use them for skin enhancement and preventive measures, while older individuals may find relief from joint pain.” However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially for children and pregnant or nursing women.
“Twenty-nine different types of collagen have been identified, but the vast majority of collagen in the human body is type I, II, or III,” says Dr Elif. “Collagen type I is by far the most common and is largely responsible for skin’s elasticity and strength. Collagen type II is primarily distributed in cartilage, and collagen type III is prevalent in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs,” she adds. In other words, although the type needed depends on the health goal, in the case of beauty, you’re likely best off prioritising intake of type I and III.
What is the best form of collagen to take?
As for how to take it, “collagen supplements are available as powder, collagen tablets, pills and liquid. Choosing between collagen supplement type is a matter of personal choice. There is no significant difference between them regarding efficacy,” Dr Elif adds. Instead, which form you choose should be based on what works for your lifestyle. “Hydrolyzed collagen is considered one of the best forms as it's broken down into smaller peptides, which are easier for your body to absorb,” shares Dr Grace.
Whichever type you choose, bear in mind that “most collagen supplements have undergone the process of hydrolyzation, which means the manufacturer has broken the collagen down into peptides so the body can absorb and use it."
What is marine collagen?
While bovine collagen is extracted from cow hides, marine collagen is sourced from the skin of wild-caught fish. Derived from fish collagen peptides, marine collagen has superior bioavailability — meaning that it’s absorbed up to 1.5 times more efficiently into the body.
How old should I be to start taking collagen supplements?
“There’s no specific age you need to be to start taking collagen supplements but since your natural collagen production starts to decrease in your 20s so this is a great time to start,” shares Dr Zoë Lees, Medical Writer at Dermatica.
Kirsten Humphreys, nutritional therapist at Bare Biology shares that if you're not after the youth-boosting effect, you can start taking collagen supplements for other reasons from your late teens "Some people take it for scarring, gut health, joint recovery so it’s all down to the reason you take it," she confirms.
How soon can I notice results?
Dr Lees shares that “noticing skin results from collagen supplements can vary depending on individual factors.”
“Most people start to notice a positive effect after about 6 weeks. Early improvements can include improved skin moisture and a smoother texture. More pronounced benefits including reduced appearance of wrinkles may start to appear with a longer duration of supplementation. Remember, consistency in supplementation is key to achieving and maintaining results.”
Are there any side effects?
Generally, collagen supplements are safe and well-tolerated. But minor side effects can include digestive issues like mild diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, gas, or a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. In very rare cases, allergic reactions are possible — as well as a higher chance of developing kidney stones if you're someone who's particularly prone to them. As always, be sure to consult a doctor beforehand if you're after more specialist medical guidance.
After more health and wellness content? Shop the best multivitamins, best probiotics for women, best iron supplements, best vitamin D supplements and the best at-home keratin products. And if you're looking for topical skincare products that can increase your collagen production, check out our guide on the best retinol serums.
