Are you thinking about adding a high-quality collagen supplement to your daily routine? Explore the rapidly growing world of collagen, one of the most popular supplements today. Learn the essential guidelines for selecting the right collagen supplement and uncover the myriad benefits it can offer for your overall wellness. Also, check out our top collagen supplement recommendations for this year.
Discover some quick facts about collagen:
Collagen is often hailed as a miracle for supporting skin, hair, and joint health, but does it truly live up to its reputation?
Collagen, which the body produces naturally, is the most abundant structural protein we have and plays a crucial role in supporting the health of our joints, skin, hair, and nails.
Why is collagen important?
As the body's most abundant protein, collagen is crucial for the health of your hair and skin, the integrity of your joints and bones, muscle development, and sustaining an active way of life.[2,3]
Yet as we age, our collagen levels begin to decrease.
Unfortunately, as we get older, our body produces less collagen. This slowdown typically begins in our mid-twenties, causing a reduction of 1-2% of collagen per year. This decline can affect skin elasticity, hair strength, nail health, and overall mobility.[2,3]
Some common signs of declining collagen levels include:
- Reduced skin elasticity and hydration
- Dull and thinning hair
- Weak and brittle nails
- Decreased joint mobility
- Slower physical recovery
- General loss of strength in connective tissues
What are the benefits of taking a collagen supplement?
POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTATION
- Support skin health & elasticity*
- Promote smooth, youthful-looking skin*
- Support joint health & comfort*
- Promote bone health*
- Support hair thickness, density & shine*
- Enhance nail strength & reduce brittleness*
- Aid in muscle recovery after exercise*
- Support digestion and gut wellness*
- Support a restful night’s sleep*
- Support mental clarity and focus*
- Provide essential amino acids & protein*
Not All Collagen Supplements are Created Equal
With over 400 collagen supplements on the market, selecting the right one can feel extremely overwhelming. To choose the best one, always read the labels, confirm the origin of the ingredients, and take into account these important factors before making your final decision.
KEY THINGS TO LOOK FOR
✓ QUALITY & PURITY: Ensure the ingredient list doesn't contain any unnecessary fillers or additives. Choose a supplement that contains 100% pure collagen.*
✓ SOURCE: Opt for collagen sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, or sustainably sourced, wild-caught marine collagen.*
✓ COLLAGEN TYPES: Look for a supplement that includes types I and III collagen, as these are beneficial for hair, skin, joint, and nail health.*
✓ AMINO ACID QUANTITY: Examine the label for amino acid and protein content. High-quality brands typically provide the amino acid profile of their collagen supplement.*
✓ HYDROLYSIS PROCESS: Choose a collagen supplement that has been enzymatically hydrolyzed, breaking the protein into shorter peptide chains for better absorption and effectiveness. Avoid collagen that uses chemical treatments, as they can degrade amino acid integrity.*
✓ FLAVOR AND MIXABILITY: Some collagen supplements have an unpleasant taste and do not mix well. Choose a supplement you'll enjoy taking daily!*
✓ LAB TESTED: Choose supplements that have undergone third-party testing to ensure purity and potency.*
✓ STRICT QUALITY STANDARDS: To ensure you're getting the safest product possible, check that the supplement is packed in an FDA-approved facility, has a GMP certificate, and is made in the USA.*
KEY THINGS TO AVOID
Not all collagen powders meet high standards, whether in their ingredients or manufacturing practices. Here’s what to steer clear of:
Lack of Third-Party Testing: Always opt for supplements that have undergone third-party lab testing for purity and potency.
Not Hydrolyzed: Hydrolyzed collagen is broken down into smaller peptides for better absorption and digestibility. Always choose hydrolyzed collagen, often labeled as collagen peptides.
Artificial Flavors or Sweeteners: Some brands add artificial flavors and sweeteners, which can add unnecessary calories, introduce unwanted chemicals, and detract from the natural benefits of collagen.
Artificial Additives and Fillers: Some brands include artificial additives and fillers, which can diminish the quality and effectiveness of the collagen. Opt for supplements that are pure and free from unnecessary ingredients.
Difficult to Mix: Low-quality collagen supplements often don't dissolve well, leaving clumps of powder.
Bad Taste & Odor: Some collagen powders can have an unpleasant taste and odor, making them difficult to consume.
Our Top Picks: Collagen Supplements for 2025
Our Top Picks: Collagen Supplements for 2025
Mobility Collagen Peptides by Fernes
Collagen Peptides by NativePath
Advanced Collagen Peptides by Vital Proteins
Multi Collagen Protein by Ancient Nutrition
Super Youth by SkinnyFitKEY THINGS TO LOOK FOR
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Types I & III Collagen
Sourced from Bovine
Traceable Ingredients
Dissolves & Mixes Easily*
Tasteless & Odorless*
Highly-Bioavailable
Bioactive
KEY THINGS TO AVOID
No Added Sweeteners
No More Than 40mg of Sodium
KEY FACTORS
365-Day-Money-Back Guarantee
Subscription Available
GMP-Certified
FDA-Approved Facility
Thrid-Party Tested
Note: We strive to update product information as often as possible. Please visit product websites for the latest information.
*Based on individual experiences from the Smart Choice Reviews team and numerous user reviews.
*Based on individual experiences from the Smart Choice Reviews team and numerous user reviews.
1. Mobility Collagen Peptides
By Fernes[1]
PROS
Made in the USA using grass-fed and pasture-raised Brazilian bovine
Contains Peptan® collagen which is scientifically shown to enhance health benefits
Rich in 18 amino acids
Unflavored and odorless
Powder dissolves easily and is clump-free
Hydrolyzed using an enzymatic hydrolysis process
Highly bioavailable, enhancing absorption and effectiveness
Science-backed benefits
No artificial ingredients, only 100% pure collagen
28 servings per bag
Offers a subscription service
CONS
Exclusively available online
High demand can occasionally lead to stock shortages
FINAL THOUGHTS
Fernes Bioactive Collagen Peptides feature hydrolyzed, bioactive bovine collagen peptides, types I and III, formulated with Peptan®, a leading brand in collagen peptides backed by scientific studies.
This formula is highly bioavailable, meaning the peptides are efficiently absorbed and reach target tissues. Being bioactive, they help stimulate the production of new collagen in the body. It dissolves quickly and easily with no taste, making it convenient to mix into any liquid, from coffee to smoothies. You can even add it to foods like scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and baked goods. Each scoop offers 10g of bioactive hydrolyzed collagen peptides and a wide range of amino acids as well as 9g of protein and only has 40mg of sodium.
Fernes Collagen Peptides are free from fillers and artificial ingredients, with the only ingredient being 100% Peptan® Collagen Peptides. They are third-party lab tested and made in the USA with traceably sourced ingredients. The brand offers a Subscribe & Save program, giving you 20% off each bag plus free shipping, making it easy and economical to maintain your supply.
Overall, Fernes provides excellent value and quality at a reasonable price, plus a 365-day money-back guarantee
This formula is highly bioavailable, meaning the peptides are efficiently absorbed and reach target tissues. Being bioactive, they help stimulate the production of new collagen in the body. It dissolves quickly and easily with no taste, making it convenient to mix into any liquid, from coffee to smoothies. You can even add it to foods like scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and baked goods. Each scoop offers 10g of bioactive hydrolyzed collagen peptides and a wide range of amino acids as well as 9g of protein and only has 40mg of sodium.
Fernes Collagen Peptides are free from fillers and artificial ingredients, with the only ingredient being 100% Peptan® Collagen Peptides. They are third-party lab tested and made in the USA with traceably sourced ingredients. The brand offers a Subscribe & Save program, giving you 20% off each bag plus free shipping, making it easy and economical to maintain your supply.
Overall, Fernes provides excellent value and quality at a reasonable price, plus a 365-day money-back guarantee
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2. Collagen Peptides
By Native Path
PROS
Made in the USA using grass-fed and pasture-raised South American bovine
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides
No unpleasant taste
Just one ingredient
Offers a subscription service
CONS
Unspecified collagen source
Only 25 servings per container
50mg of sodium
Difficult to dissolve
FINAL THOUGHTS
Native Path Collagen Peptides feature unflavored type I & III peptides formulated from hydrolyzed, grass-fed, and pasture-raised South American bovine collagen. Each daily serving provides 10g of hydrolyzed collagen, which can be added to any liquid of your choice.
Additionally, the formula includes 9g of protein, amino acids, and 50mg of sodium. This flavorless, odorless, and tasteless collagen powder, however, mixes poorly.
Additionally, the formula includes 9g of protein, amino acids, and 50mg of sodium. This flavorless, odorless, and tasteless collagen powder, however, mixes poorly.
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3. Collagen Peptides Advanced
By Vital Proteins
PROS
Made in the USA
Gluten & dairy-free
Certified grass-fed bovine collagen
Includes HA and vitamin C
CONS
110mg of sodium per serving
Unspecified collagen source
14 serving per container
Scoop not included
No satisfaction guarantee
FINAL THOUGHTS
Unlike the previous collagen peptides, the Vital Proteins formula, while convenient and easy to use, requires a larger dose of 20g per serving. This unflavored collagen powder also contains 110 mg of sodium, which may be a concern for those monitoring their sodium intake. The sodium content can affect the flavor, making the product less versatile for various uses.
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4. Multi Collagen Protein
By Ancient Nutrition
PROS
Hydrolyzed collagen from bovine sources
Mild, neutral taste
Includes probiotics and vitamin C
CONS
No satisfaction guarantee
Price
Unknown ingredient origins
Contains allergens like fish & eggs
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ancient Nutrition's Multi Collagen Protein is an average choice for a collagen supplement. It offers 10g of hydrolyzed collagen per scoop, sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen, and includes probiotics and vitamin C.
While it has a relatively neutral flavor that can blend into various beverages, its dissolvability is less impressive. It tends to take longer to dissolve in cold drinks and struggles even more in warm drinks, compared to other collagen powders.
Although it's a decent product, it is pricier than many other options available. This might not be the best choice if you're looking for superior value and performance.
While it has a relatively neutral flavor that can blend into various beverages, its dissolvability is less impressive. It tends to take longer to dissolve in cold drinks and struggles even more in warm drinks, compared to other collagen powders.
Although it's a decent product, it is pricier than many other options available. This might not be the best choice if you're looking for superior value and performance.
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5. Super Youth Collagen
By Skinny Fit
PROS
Hydrolyzed collagen from bovine sources
Includes vitamin C
14g of protein
CONS
Contains allergens like fish & eggs
Requires a 2-scoop serving size
Price
Unknown ingredient origins
FINAL THOUGHTS
Super Youth Collagen by SkinnyFit delivers 15.6g of hydrolyzed collagen per serving, derived from a mix of bovine, fish, chicken, and eggshell membrane. It also features vitamin C, apple cider vinegar, and hyaluronic acid. Each container provides 28 servings of this unflavored collagen powder.
Despite its diverse collagen sources, the inclusion of fish and eggshell membrane might not be ideal for everyone. The two-scoop serving size can also be less convenient and effective than single-scoop options.
Moreover, the addition of different ingredients makes it not entirely flavor-neutral. Lastly, the cost is something to consider: at $99.95 for a one-time purchase (around 28 servings), it is on the pricier side compared to other options.
Despite its diverse collagen sources, the inclusion of fish and eggshell membrane might not be ideal for everyone. The two-scoop serving size can also be less convenient and effective than single-scoop options.
Moreover, the addition of different ingredients makes it not entirely flavor-neutral. Lastly, the cost is something to consider: at $99.95 for a one-time purchase (around 28 servings), it is on the pricier side compared to other options.
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Our Top Pick
Mobility Collagen Peptides
By Fernes[1]
- 10g of Hydrolyzed Bioactive Collagen Peptides
- 9g of Protein & Rich in 18 Amino Acids
- Features Science-Backed Peptan® Collagen
- Only 100% Pure Bioactive Collagen Peptides
- Made in the USA in FDA Approved Facility
CITATIONS
DISCLAIMER: The scientific research provided is for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. SmartChoiceReviews shares this information as a service and does not endorse it. This content should not be interpreted as a recommendation or endorsement of any specific products.
[1] Ricard-Blum, Sylvie. “The collagen family.” Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in biology vol. 3,1 a004978. 1 Jan. 2011, doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a004978
[2] Oikarinen, A. “Aging of the skin connective tissue: how to measure the biochemical and mechanical properties of aging dermis.” Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine vol. 10,2 (1994): 47-52.
[3] León-López, Arely et al. “Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 24,22 4031. 7 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3390/molecules24224031
[4] Bolke, Liane et al. “A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study.” Nutrients vol. 11,10 2494. 17 Oct. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11102494
[5] Silvipriya, K., et al. “Collagen: Animal Sources and Biomedical Application.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2015, pp. 123–127., https://doi.org/10.7324/japs.2015.50322.
[6] Zhao, Yu-Hong, and Yu-Jie Chi. “Characterization of Collagen from Eggshell Membrane.” Biotechnology(Faisalabad), vol. 8, no. 2, 2009, pp. 254–258., https://doi.org/10.3923/biotech.2009.254.258.
[7] Borumand, Maryam, and Sara Sibilla. “Daily consumption of the collagen supplement Pure Gold Collagen® reduces visible signs of aging.” Clinical interventions in aging vol. 9 1747-58. 13 Oct. 2014, doi:10.2147/CIA.S65939
[2] Oikarinen, A. “Aging of the skin connective tissue: how to measure the biochemical and mechanical properties of aging dermis.” Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine vol. 10,2 (1994): 47-52.
[3] León-López, Arely et al. “Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 24,22 4031. 7 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3390/molecules24224031
[4] Bolke, Liane et al. “A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study.” Nutrients vol. 11,10 2494. 17 Oct. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11102494
[5] Silvipriya, K., et al. “Collagen: Animal Sources and Biomedical Application.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2015, pp. 123–127., https://doi.org/10.7324/japs.2015.50322.
[6] Zhao, Yu-Hong, and Yu-Jie Chi. “Characterization of Collagen from Eggshell Membrane.” Biotechnology(Faisalabad), vol. 8, no. 2, 2009, pp. 254–258., https://doi.org/10.3923/biotech.2009.254.258.
[7] Borumand, Maryam, and Sara Sibilla. “Daily consumption of the collagen supplement Pure Gold Collagen® reduces visible signs of aging.” Clinical interventions in aging vol. 9 1747-58. 13 Oct. 2014, doi:10.2147/CIA.S65939