A daily smidgen of collagen could be just the thing for a glow-up. Our dietitian evaluated top products and chose the best collagen for skin health. Here are the supplements that made the list.
Share on PinterestA quick look at the best collagen supplements for skin health
- Best overall: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder | Skip to review
- Best multisource collagen: Ancient Nutrition Multi-Collagen Protein | Skip to review
- Best for athletes: Klean Collagen+C Powder | Skip to review
- Best collagen capsules: HUM Nutrition Collagen Love Capsules | Skip to review
- Best ingredient variety: mindbodygreen Beauty & Gut Collagen+ | Skip to review
- Best to take alongside collagen: Ora Aloe Gorgeous | Skip to review
So, what type of collagen is best for the skin? Technically, all types of collagen, but if you want to go the extra mile, we recommend choosing a supplement that contains additional ingredients thought to enhance skin health.
We chose five collagen powders and one capsule option after evaluating their ingredients against clinical research and then trying some for ourselves.
But first, what is collagen?
Collagen is a type of protein found throughout your body. It’s in your skin, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, tissue, and teeth.
Collagen in supplement for is most commonly derived from:
- bovine
- porcine
- marine sources
It can also be made synthetically from insect, yeast, and plant or mammal cultures, resulting in a lower risk of allergic reactions. People often use collagen supplements to promote skin health, as this protein has shown benefits for skin elasticity, hydration, and texture.
Though bovine collagen is more widely found in supplements, the body absorbs marine collagen better, and it’s less inflammatory and contains fewer toxins, according to research.
Most of our picks contain bovine collagen because it’s more common. However, our Ancient Nutrition pick contains marine collagen as well as bovine and other sources.
Additionally, Anthony’s Marine Collagen is a former top pick that’s made strictly from marine sources, but we decided not to include it in our main list since it does not contain additional ingredients that benefit skin health. However, it’s a good choice if you want a collagen powder sourced solely from marine sources.
A note on price
Generally, prices range from $1.33 to $3.50 per serving or $29.99 to $70.00 per container, though this may vary depending on where you shop.
$ = under $0.50 per serving
$$ = $0.50 to $1 per serving
$$$ = over $1 per serving
Healthline’s picks for the best collagen supplements for better skin
Best overall
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder
4.8 (30.3k+) from Iherb- Number of servings: 14 per container
- Dose: 2–4 tbsp per day
- Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): collagen peptides 20 g (bovine), hyaluronic acid 80 mg
- Price: $$$
Healthline's review
Why we picked it: This collagen supplement is third-party tested. It’s also formulated with ingredients to promote skin health, including vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
More about it: Vital Proteins produces many of the most popular collagen supplements on the market.
This collagen supplement is intended to support joints that have been overworked and promote healthy skin and nails.
The collagen in this supplement comes from grass-fed cows and is gluten- and dairy-free. The product also contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Though topical preparations of hyaluronic acid work more quickly, taking hyaluronic acid orally can help maintain results in the long term.
With both flavored and unflavored varieties available, there are plenty of ways to add it to your diet. One of our editors uses the chocolate collagen “literally every day” in her coffee and uses the plain flavor for cooking and baking, especially for thickening sauces without using flour. Keto gravy, anyone?
Vital Proteins products are made in an NSF certified, current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) compliant facility and are free of:
- gluten
- dairy
- fillers
- sweeteners
What our tester says
“I love this product! It’s a staple in my home.
“I make my morning ‘coffee’ with the chocolate flavor, or I use the plain and add a few drops of vanilla-flavored stevia to sweeten it up.
“It’s also a great option for thickening curries, gravies, and soups without flour. Plus, my kiddo doesn’t notice it in his hot chocolate, so he gets some added nutrients instead of all the sugar.”
— Crystal Hoshaw, Bezzy editor
“I love this product! It’s a staple in my home.
“I make my morning ‘coffee’ with the chocolate flavor, or I use the plain and add a few drops of vanilla-flavored stevia to sweeten it up.
“It’s also a great option for thickening curries, gravies, and soups without flour. Plus, my kiddo doesn’t notice it in his hot chocolate, so he gets some added nutrients instead of all the sugar.”
— Crystal Hoshaw, Bezzy editor
Pros & cons
- third-party tested
- contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to support skin health
- available in tub or stick packs
- features hydrolyzed collagen
- expensive
- has a flavor that may be unpalatable to some
- third-party tested
- contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to support skin health
- available in tub or stick packs
- features hydrolyzed collagen
- expensive
- has a flavor that may be unpalatable to some
Product details
- Form: powder
- Returns: not accepted
- Shipping: calculated at checkout
- Form: powder
- Returns: not accepted
- Shipping: calculated at checkout
Best multisource collagen
Ancient Nutrition Multi-Collagen Protein
4.6 (4k+) from iHerb- Number of servings: 45 per container
- Dose: 1 scoop
- Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): hydrolyzed collagen peptides 10 g (bovine, egg shell membrane, chicken bone broth concentrate, fish), bacilus coagluans (2 billion CFU), vitamin C (90 mg)
- Price: $$$
Healthline's review
Why we picked it: In addition to providing collagen derived from four sources (which could be more beneficial), this supplement also includes vitamin C and probiotics for an added boost of nutrients. Like our top pick, it’s also third-party tested.
More about it: Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein is the only product on our list that features 20 grams (g) of collagen from four sources:
- bovine collagen
- eggshell membrane
- fish
- chicken bone broth
Each source contains different types of collagen, which differ in function and potential health effects, so opting for a multisource collagen supplement might be beneficial.
One of the four types is marine collagen. According to a 2018 review of research, marine collagen is better absorbed, less inflammatory, and contains fewer toxins.
While some online reviews point to an “unsettling” taste and smell, an editor on our team uses it almost daily in her coffee and has found that it’s tasteless and dissolves fully.
Each scoop includes 90 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C — a nutrient that slows aging and promotes collagen production — and 2 billion colony forming units (CFU) of Bacillus coagulans, a type of probiotic.
This product is third-party tested for safety. Plus, Ancient Nutrition offers a certificate of analysis (COA) for each product on its website. The COA provides detailed information about testing results.
What our tester says
“Between the two of us, my husband and I use this collagen powder almost daily in our morning coffee or (occasionally) smoothies, and we have been using it on an off for about 2 years.
“I chose it mostly because it doesn’t have any added flavors or other ingredients like some collagen powders, and it’s proved to be easy to add to coffee without changing the taste or texture of my beloved morning beverage.
“It dissolves completely. I’ll either stir with a spoon to mix it up, sometimes I’ll just scoop it into my cup and have found that if I have to walk away to butter my toast or chase my toddler or what have you, it will completely dissolve on its own after a few minutes.”
— Catherine Conelly, Healthline editor
“Between the two of us, my husband and I use this collagen powder almost daily in our morning coffee or (occasionally) smoothies, and we have been using it on an off for about 2 years.
“I chose it mostly because it doesn’t have any added flavors or other ingredients like some collagen powders, and it’s proved to be easy to add to coffee without changing the taste or texture of my beloved morning beverage.
“It dissolves completely. I’ll either stir with a spoon to mix it up, sometimes I’ll just scoop it into my cup and have found that if I have to walk away to butter my toast or chase my toddler or what have you, it will completely dissolve on its own after a few minutes.”
— Catherine Conelly, Healthline editor
Pros & cons
- third-party tested
- includes collagen derived from four sources
- hydrolyzed to increase absorption
- contains a high dose of collagen per serving
- formulated with vitamin C and probiotics
- expensive
- some negative reviews of the taste and smell
- third-party tested
- includes collagen derived from four sources
- hydrolyzed to increase absorption
- contains a high dose of collagen per serving
- formulated with vitamin C and probiotics
- expensive
- some negative reviews of the taste and smell
Product details
- Form: powder
- Returns: not accepted
- Shipping: calculated at checkout
- Form: powder
- Returns: not accepted
- Shipping: calculated at checkout
Best for athletes
Klean Collagen+C Powder
4.4 (135+) from Amazon- Number of servings: 20 per container
- Dose: 1 scoop per day
- Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): hydrolyzed collagen (bovine) 14 g, vitamin C 50 mg
- Price: $$$
Healthline's review
Why we picked it: This supplement pairs bovine collagen with vitamin C and is NSF Certified for Sport, making it an excellent choice for athletes.
More about it: Klean Collagen+C boasts 14 g of hydrolyzed bovine collagen per serving, along with 50 mg of vitamin C derived from organic amla fruit extract.
It’s formulated to maximize absorption and naturally flavored with:
- pomegranate juice powder
- blackberry powder
- monk fruit extract
It’s easy to mix into your favorite beverages.
Like other products from Klean Athlete, this collagen supplement is non-GMO and made without:
- gluten
- artificial sweeteners
- synthetic flavors
- dyes
It’s also NSF Certified for Sport, which means it has been tested to ensure it’s free of banned substances for athletes.
Pros & cons
- NSF Certified for Sport
- contains a high dose of collagen per serving
- hydrolyzed to increase absorption
- relatively pricey
- has a strong flavor, which some may dislike
- NSF Certified for Sport
- contains a high dose of collagen per serving
- hydrolyzed to increase absorption
- relatively pricey
- has a strong flavor, which some may dislike
Product details
- Form: powder
- Available flavors: Berry, Natural Tropical
- Returns: free returns for Prime members
- Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
- Form: powder
- Available flavors: Berry, Natural Tropical
- Returns: free returns for Prime members
- Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Best collagen capsules
HUM Nutrition Collagen Love Capsules
4.6 (66+) from HUM Nutrition- Number of servings: 30 per container
- Dose: 3 capsules per day
- Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): collagen peptide blend 600 mg, skin support & protection blend 450 mg (chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, red wine extract, grape seed extract)
- Price: $$$
Healthline's review
Why we picked it: This supplement is formulated with a blend of additional ingredients linked to enhanced skin health and is available in a convenient capsule form.
More about it: These collagen capsules contain 0.6 g of collagen per serving, which is sourced from grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine animals.
Research suggests collagen peptides may be effective in doses ranging from 2.5 to 15 g. Therefore, you might need to combine this supplement with plenty of collagen-rich foods in your diet to maximize your results.
These capsules also contain a blend of other ingredients and herbal extracts to support skin health, including:
- hyaluronic acid
- vitamin C
- red wine extract
- grapeseed extract
However, some of these ingredients, such as red wine extract, have been studied mostly in animals and test tubes at high doses.
This product from HUM Nutrition is non-GMO, gluten-free, and made without any artificial sweeteners or flavors.
What’s more, it’s triple-tested for purity and verified by an independent lab to ensure potency.
Pros & cons
- third-party tested
- contains a blend of herbal ingredients to support skin health
- available in convenient capsule form
- made with hydrolyzed collagen
- limited human research to support certain ingredients
- contains a lower dose of collagen than powdered supplements
- relatively expensive
- third-party tested
- contains a blend of herbal ingredients to support skin health
- available in convenient capsule form
- made with hydrolyzed collagen
- limited human research to support certain ingredients
- contains a lower dose of collagen than powdered supplements
- relatively expensive
Product details
- Form: capsule
- Available flavors: Unflavored
- Returns: full refund within 30 days
- Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50+
- Form: capsule
- Available flavors: Unflavored
- Returns: full refund within 30 days
- Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50+
Best ingredient variety
mindbodygreen Beauty & Gut Collagen+
4 (248+) from mindbodygreen- Number of servings: 20 per bag
- Dose: 1 scoop (24.8 g)
- Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin C (200 mg), vitamin E (30 mg), biotin (500 mcg), calcium (30 mg), iron (2 mg), potassium (300 mg), grass-fed bovine collagen peptides (17.7 g), vegan hyaluronic acid (100 mg), L-glutamine (500 mg), turmeric root extract (50 mg), broccoli seed extract (250 mg)
- Price: $70.00
Use code "HEALTHLINE20" for 20% off.
SHOP NOW AT MINDBODYGREEN*Price may vary.
Healthline's review
Why we picked it: This supplement couples grass-fed collagen with a long list of ingredients that can promote skin health. Though it’s one of the pricier options on our list, it’s high in protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals, meaning it may even help streamline your supplement routine.
More about it: mindbodygreen’s Beauty & Gut Collagen contains nearly 18 g of grass-fed bovine collagen plus 16 g of protein in a single scoop.
It contains several other nutrients that can support skin health, including:
- biotin
- hyaluronic acid
- vitamin C
- vitamin E
- glutamine
- turmeric root extract
- broccoli seed extract
While some of these ingredients — such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid — have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and support skin health, research is limited on the effectiveness of others for skin health, including biotin.
This supplement is naturally sweetened with organic monk fruit and is available in an unflavored and chocolate variety.
This product is also third-party tested and free of sugar, gluten, dairy, and soy.
Pros & cons
- includes multiple ingredients to support skin, hair, and gut health
- contains high amount of collagen per serving
- available in chocolate and unflavored varieties
- third-party tested
- made with collagen peptides to maximize absorption
- can be difficult to mix
- some reviewers dislike taste
- very expensive
- includes multiple ingredients to support skin, hair, and gut health
- contains high amount of collagen per serving
- available in chocolate and unflavored varieties
- third-party tested
- made with collagen peptides to maximize absorption
- can be difficult to mix
- some reviewers dislike taste
- very expensive
Product details
- Form: powder
- Available flavors: chocolate, unflavored
- Returns: returns within 30 days
- Shipping: free shipping on orders over $98
- Form: powder
- Available flavors: chocolate, unflavored
- Returns: returns within 30 days
- Shipping: free shipping on orders over $98
Best to take alongside collagen
Ora Aloe Gorgeous
4.5 (490+) from Amazon- Number of servings: 20 per container
- Dose: 1 scoop (12 g)
- Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): vitamin C 90 mg (100% DV), vitamin E 4.5 mg (30% DV), iron 1 mg (6% DV), organic pea protein, organic acerola cherry extract, organic aloe vera gel powder, organic bamboo whole plant extract, sunflower vitamin E
- Price: $$$
Healthline's review
Why we picked it: Even though it’s not a collagen supplement, it’s made with high quality ingredients designed to naturally boost collagen production. It’s organic and third-party tested.
More about it: Aloe Gorgeous aims to support healthy aging by increasing your body’s collagen production.
It includes a blend of plant-based ingredients, such as:
- organic pea protein
- organic acerola cherry extract
- organic aloe vera gel powder
- organic bamboo whole plant extract
- sunflower vitamin E
Animal studies found that aloe vera supplementation can speed up wound healing and increase collagen production.
Other herbal extracts, like acerola cherry, contain a high amount of antioxidants. However, research for these ingredients is limited in humans.
It also includes vitamin C, an important nutrient that can stimulate collagen production to support healthy aging.
Ora Aloe Gorgeous is available in two flavors and can be easily mixed into drinks.
In addition to being third-party tested, Ora also provides a COA with detailed testing results.
Pros & cons
- free of animal products
- third-party tested, with COA available
- formulated with ingredients to support collagen production
- certified organic
- pricey
- doesn't contain collagen
- free of animal products
- third-party tested, with COA available
- formulated with ingredients to support collagen production
- certified organic
- pricey
- doesn't contain collagen
Product details
- Form: powder
- Available flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate
- Shipping: free shipping on orders over $100
- Form: powder
- Available flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate
- Shipping: free shipping on orders over $100
How we chose the best collagen powders and supplements
We selected the products featured in this article based on the following criteria:
- Type of supplement: We included collagen supplements in various forms, including powders and capsules.
- Ingredients: We selected collagen supplements made with high quality ingredients, all of which are free of fillers and unnecessary additives.
- Third-party testing or certifications: Many of the products on our list have been tested or certified by a third-party organization to ensure safety and quality.
- Dosage: Most studies have evaluated the effects of collagen at doses of 2.5 to 10 g per day. We selected collagen supplements available in a wide range of doses so you can adjust based on your needs.
Considerations as you shop for collagen supplements
When selecting a collagen supplement, there are several factors to consider.
First, it’s important to consider the form of supplement.
While some people prefer the ease and convenience of capsules, others enjoy the versatility of collagen powders, which can easily be mixed into beverages and baked goods.
Also check the label to determine the dosage.
Although there are no established guidelines for how much collagen you should take, studies show that 2.5 to 15 g of collagen peptides per day are considered safe and effective.
You may also want to read the ingredients label, as some products may contain additional ingredients to support skin health, such as:
- silica
- hyaluronic acid
- vitamin C
Finally, be sure to opt for high quality supplements purchased from a reputable retailer and look for products that have undergone third-party testing to ensure quality and safety.
Comparing collagen supplements
Product andpriceCollagenProsConsVital Proteins Collagen Peptides NSF20 g• third-party tested• contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid• available in tub or stick packs• features hydrolyzed collagen• expensive• some may find flavor unpalatableAncient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein10 g• includes collagen derived from four sources• hydrolyzed to increase absorption• contains a high dose of collagen per serving• formulated with vitamin C and probiotics• expensive• some negative reviews of taste and smellKlean Collagen+CNSF14 g• contains a high dose of collagen per serving• hydrolyzed to increase absorption• relatively pricey• has a strong flavor, which some may dislikeHUM Nutrition Collagen Love0.6 g• contains a blend of herbal ingredients to support skin health• available in convenient capsule form• made with hydrolyzed collagen• limited human research to support certain ingredients• lower dose than powders• relatively expensivemindbodygreen Beauty & Gut Collagen17.7 g• includes multiple ingredients to support skin, hair, and gut health• contains high amount of collagen per serving• available in chocolate and unflavored varieties• third-party tested• made with collagen peptides to maximize absorption• can be difficult to mix• some reviewers dislike taste• very expensiveOra Aloe GorgeousUSDA—• free of animal products• third-party tested, with COA available• formulated with ingredients to support collagen production• certified organic• pricey• doesn’t contain collagenNSF=NSF Certified for Sport USDA = Certified Organic
Useful supplement shopping guides
- How to Choose High Quality Vitamins and Supplements
- How to Read Supplement Labels Like a Pro
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between regular and hydrolyzed collagen?
Hydrolyzed collagen has been broken down into smaller molecules. It may be easier for your body to digest and absorb than regular collagen.
Hydrolyzed collagen has been broken down into smaller molecules. It may be easier for your body to digest and absorb than regular collagen.
How long does it take for collagen supplements to start working?
The amount of time it takes to experience noticeable benefits after taking collagen supplements can vary. Some research suggests collagen supplements could improve skin elasticity and hydration within 4 to 12 weeks.
The amount of time it takes to experience noticeable benefits after taking collagen supplements can vary. Some research suggests collagen supplements could improve skin elasticity and hydration within 4 to 12 weeks.
Are collagen supplements safe?
Collagen supplements are generally considered safe and are associated with few negative side effects when used as directed.
However, to ensure safety, it is important to purchase products that have been tested by an independent lab whenever possible. Additionally, be sure to consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Collagen supplements are generally considered safe and are associated with few negative side effects when used as directed.
However, to ensure safety, it is important to purchase products that have been tested by an independent lab whenever possible. Additionally, be sure to consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Are collagen supplements good for reducing wrinkles?
Some research suggests that collagen could help slow signs of aging. In fact, one 2021 review of 19 studies concludes that after taking a hydrolyzed collagen supplement for 90 days, it could:
- improve skin hydration
- decrease wrinkles
- improve skin elasticity
Some research suggests that collagen could help slow signs of aging. In fact, one 2021 review of 19 studies concludes that after taking a hydrolyzed collagen supplement for 90 days, it could:
- improve skin hydration
- decrease wrinkles
- improve skin elasticity
Can collagen supplements help tighten saggy skin?
There is limited research on whether collagen can tighten skin. However, some studies have found that collagen supplements could potentially improve the appearance of skin by improving:
- skin elasticity
- hydration
- texture
There is limited research on whether collagen can tighten skin. However, some studies have found that collagen supplements could potentially improve the appearance of skin by improving:
- skin elasticity
- hydration
- texture
Is there a vegan source of collagen?
Because collagen is derived from animal products, there are no vegan-friendly sources of collagen.
Some older research suggests that vegan collagen could be made using genetically modified yeast and bacteria. More studies are needed, though, and vegan collagen supplements are not yet readily available.
However, several vegan-friendly, collagen-boosting supplements are already on the market. These usually contain ingredients that support collagen production, such as vitamin C, but not collagen itself.
Alternatively, you can consume more vitamin C-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to help naturally promote collagen production.
Because collagen is derived from animal products, there are no vegan-friendly sources of collagen.
Some older research suggests that vegan collagen could be made using genetically modified yeast and bacteria. More studies are needed, though, and vegan collagen supplements are not yet readily available.
However, several vegan-friendly, collagen-boosting supplements are already on the market. These usually contain ingredients that support collagen production, such as vitamin C, but not collagen itself.
Alternatively, you can consume more vitamin C-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to help naturally promote collagen production.
Is collagen keto-friendly?
Collagen can fit into a ketogenic diet, as it is typically low in carbs and high in protein. However, to keep your carb intake low, be sure to check the ingredients label carefully and opt for products without added sugar.
Collagen can fit into a ketogenic diet, as it is typically low in carbs and high in protein. However, to keep your carb intake low, be sure to check the ingredients label carefully and opt for products without added sugar.
The bottom line
Taking a collagen supplement can be an easy and effective way to help promote better skin.
Plenty of products are available, containing a range of doses and a variety of ingredients.
When deciding which supplement is right for you, consider:
- the type of supplement
- additional ingredients
- the dosage
- whether the product has undergone third-party testing
As with any supplement, consult a healthcare professional, like your primary care doctor, a dietitian, or a pharmacist, before adding collagen to your treatment regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.