12 Best Collagen Supplements for Women, Reviewed by Experts 2024 | Glamour

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So, you keep seeing buzzy brands on your feed claiming to be the best collagen supplements on the market, and you’re wondering, Do these pills, powders, and gummies actually work? Well, the answer is a little complicated. While some experts say that collagen—the main structural protein in the skin—gets digested in our gut and therefore can’t make a difference, others tell us that it can show improvements to the skin (more on that below). We spoke with dermatologists and registered dietitians for their recommendations on top-rated collagen products, then tested them ourselves. Here’s what the pros have to say about their effectiveness, and which collagen supplements and collagen boosters you can trust to add to your morning coffee or shake.

What exactly is collagen?

Let’s get one thing clear: Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It provides structure to your skin, hair, nails, joints, ligaments, connective tissue, muscles, and bones. So far experts have identified 28 various types of collagen, according to research published by the National Institutes of Health. The most common are types I, II, and III, with type I making up 90% of collagen in the human body.

Our bodies naturally produce collagen, but production decreases due to a number of factors (age, sun damage, smoking, etc.). That’s where a supplement may be enticing: “Individuals experiencing signs of aging such as wrinkles and joint pain, or those with a collagen deficiency, may find them beneficial,” Anna Chon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, tells Glamour.

Do collagen supplements actually work?

Even with these standards, some experts—like Nava Greenfield, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City—don’t recommend collagen supplements to patients. “The jury is still out as to whether or not they truly have any benefits, and there’s a lack of consistency in quality and efficacy among the product and manufacturers,” she says. It’s also important to note that while collagen is a protein, it’s not complete (meaning, it doesn’t contain all essential amino acids), and therefore it can’t fully replace a protein powder.

Other experts, however, say the supplements may be a helpful addition to your health and skin-care regimen. “I recommend collagen supplements to individuals with noticeable signs of skin aging, those with joint pain related to osteoarthritis, and those who are unable to get sufficient collagen from their diet,” says Cameron Rokhsar, MD, FAAD, FAACS, a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.

What are the benefits of collagen supplements?

“It’s still undecided whether collagen is actually effective when we consume it,” Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology in New York City, tells Glamour. Collagen supplements have garnered some healthy skepticism among skin-care experts and doctors, who believe the supplements may get degraded during the process of digestion in the GI tract. Still, there is recent research on collagen supplements that is promising.

One 2019 review of current research found that collagen consumption may offer short- and long-term benefits for skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkling—the foundation of antiaging skin care. Other small studies suggest that collagen supplementation may help alleviate joint pain and support nail strength. Beyond those suggested cosmetic benefits, a 2021 review also highlighted that collagen products had a “significant” impact on skin regeneration, wound healing, dental therapy, joint health, and osteoarthritis. So while she is optimistic about the research and anecdotal evidence, Dr. King says, “We still need to conduct further studies to confirm these findings and to determine optimal dosing regimens.”

How we reviewed them

If you’re interested in trying collagen supplements for beauty and health benefits, here are some clear criteria from Dr. Chon—in consensus with multiple other dermatologists Glamour surveyed—to consider before buying:

Type of collagen

Again, there are 28 types of collagen, but the ones most frequently used in supplements are types I to III—mimicking the most common forms of collagen found in the human body. Types I and III are good for supporting healthy skin, hair, and nails; type II collagen is ideal for joints and cartilage. Collagen type I can help support overall skin health and address complexion concerns such as sagging skin.

Collagen source

Collagen is typically derived from bovine (cow) or marine (fish) sources. Dr. King recommends seeking out collagen products sourced from organically raised animals whenever possible. Collagen is not vegan; per a 2020 review, the protein “originate[s] from animal sources” and therefore cannot be plant-based; if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, this is an important factor to consider. However, you can find vegan formulas that help stimulate your body’s own collagen production. (Researchers have used genetically engineered microorganisms to create what is essentially vegan collagen, according to recently published research, but no product using this technology is available to consumers.)

Form

Collagen supplements come in various forms, including powders you can stir into water or coffee, capsules, and liquids. Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides have been broken down into smaller molecules, which are easier for your body to absorb and incorporate toward skin, hair, and nails. According to Kseniya Kobets, MD, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Advanced Care, you can get the most benefits from at least 2.5 grams daily, as most studies show; however, 10 to 12 grams of collagen provide the maximum perks for your skin, joints, and hair.

Ingredients

Try to avoid products with added sugars or artificial flavors and colors. Do keep an eye out for health- and skin-supporting ingredients, like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.

Thorough testing and vetting

Look for products that have been tested for purity and safety by a trusted third party. This third-party certification ensures that the supplement contains exactly what it claims to offer, with no filler or harmful contaminants. It’s also beneficial to seek out brands that conduct clinical trials on their products, offering data on each one’s potential efficacy. Making sure that bovine sources of collagen are pasture-raised and grass-fed is also important to determine trustworthiness and sustainability. “Look for labels that are certified by the American Grassfed Association (AGA) to ensure the supplement is antibiotic- and growth-hormone-free,” says Dr. King. And on top of that, do some research on each brand, prioritizing ones that are well-established, transparent about their sourcing and production processes, and liked by customers.

Can collagen supplements help with weight loss?

Collagen may potentially help with weight loss, but in more of an indirect sort of way. It can contribute to overall protein intake (although, again, be mindful that it’s not a complete protein), which supports muscle-building and can help promote a healthy weight, says Kristen Reed, RN, a board-certified registered nurse and certified health coach. “Collagen also helps us feel satiated and stabilizes our blood sugar, so we are less tempted to fill up on processed carbohydrates and refined sugars that hinder weight-loss goals.”

What about collagen for joint health?

As mentioned, collagen supplements may be helpful if you deal with joint pain or want to proactively support your joints. Dr. Rokhsar often recommends collagen supplements to patients dealing with joint pain related to osteoarthritis. Some studies even suggest that supplementing with collagen may help alleviate joint pain caused by strenuous activity.

Is it better to drink collagen or take pills?

While both collagen powder and pills are viable forms to take, powders may be more effective, as they have more collagen per serving than capsules. What’s more, the powders are readily digestible, says Reed.

“As I tell my clients, whichever way you’ll actually take it is the way I recommend,” she says. “So if you’re more likely to mix it into a smoothie or a morning cup of warm lemon water, then do that. However, if swallowing pills is easier for you, you can do that instead.” Just keep in mind that you’ll need quite a few pills to get the same dose as with a powder.

How long does it take for collagen to work?

While collagen supplements are not a magic bullet for a plump complexion and luscious hair, you may be able to see some results within about a month, according to some studies. “Multiple meta-analyses have shown improvement in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles, evident as early as four weeks, but usually at 60 to 90 days after starting supplementation and maintained for at least 40 days after stopping,” says Dr. Kobets. It’s a good idea to check in with your doctor or nutritionist after two to three months on any progress you might be making with collagen supplementation.

Is there a downside to taking collagen?

As with anything, too much of a good thing isn’t always a good thing. “Too much collagen and consuming excessive doses can lead to issues with your GI tract, kidneys, and liver,” says Reed. In most studies, no major side effects or damage to the liver and kidneys have been shown, Dr. Kobets says. Per evidence from animal studies, some people who are predisposed to a condition called hyperoxaluria, which involves naturally elevated levels of the kidney-stone-causing compound oxalate, present in urine, may not react well to collagen. You can check with your doctor as to whether or not you might fit in that category.

“Always take as recommended by your health care provider, and choose a high-quality, responsibly sourced collagen,” adds Reed.

And as mentioned, collagen isn’t a complete protein. So for proper protein intake, you’ll need to consume other sources (like chicken, eggs, and pistachios).

What vitamins should you not take with collagen?

Collagen is safe to take with most medications and supplements. Since it’s a protein that’s usually derived from animal products, it typically doesn’t have any major interactions with other vitamins or substances, says Irena Kutza, MS, RD, CDN, clinical administrative dietitian at Montefiore Health System in Bronx, New York. Often, though, collagen supplements contain other additives to aid absorption, including vitamin C, which can interact with certain medications such as estrogen or blood thinners, Kutza points out—one more reason to speak with your primary care provider before starting a new supplement routine.

Who should not take collagen?

No matter what, be sure to speak with your doctor before taking any new supplements. A health care practitioner can offer personalized advice, based on your individual dietary needs and preferences. “While collagen supplements may offer potential benefits, they should not be a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle,” says Dr. Chon. “It’s also important to remember that individual responses to supplements can vary, and what works for one person may not work for another.”

Collagen is safe for most people, regardless of age (in fact, the younger you start supplementing with collagen, the better you are in terms of making attempts to nourish your skin and bone health). “Collagen deteriorates as we age, so supplementing can be beneficial,” says Kutza. Again, if you take certain medications that might interact with other ingredients in the collagen supplements, including vitamin C, closely read labels and check with your doctor before popping the supplements.

Meet our experts

Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz prepares Vital Proteins’ collagen supplement.

Amazon

Walmart

Used by the likes of Jennifer Aniston, Vital Proteins holds up to the hype—and many of the derms and RDNs we surveyed recommend this top-rated powder. This particular product contains collagen peptides, which are easier for the body to absorb than other forms of the protein. What’s more, “it’s easy to find, good quality, and blends well,” says registered dietician Jessica Cording, MS, RD, a health coach based in NYC. Plus, it contains protective vitamin C and skin-hydrating hyaluronic acid, which can “suppress wrinkles” and improve dry skin when ingested, per a 2021 study.

Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz is a fan of this pick. “The taste is inoffensive. It’s a bit creamy—almost like a light milk. I’ve put in my iced coffee, but that adds a bit of an after taste. So I prefer to just slug it down with water. It does require a lot of stirring to get the clumps to dissipate, though, and I’ll note that it gets really sticky on your fingers once it’s mixed with liquid, but that’s an easy solve. Overall, it’s easy to get down, which I can’t say for a lot of the other supplements I’ve tried. Also, if you’re looking for something that helps the GI, like a fiber supplement, several friends have noted that this does the trick quickly.”

Collagen per serving: 20g / Collagen source: Bovine / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C

Amazon

Target

This collagen-building capsule comes highly recommended by Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology in NYC. It’s meant to support various important proteins in the body: “It’s formulated with choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid [ch-OSA] to stimulate collagen, elastin, and keratin production,” she says. “It also prevents existing collagen from degradation. There have been numerous clinical trials published in peer-reviewed medical journals that have shown significant results when taken, and noted improvements in skin elasticity, wrinkles, and fine lines.”

Collagen per serving: None / Collagen source: NA / Form: Capsule / Key ingredients: ch-OSA

Amazon

Walmart

Garden of Life

Another derm- and nutritionist-favorite brand, Garden of Life’s unique collagen powder also contains astaxanthin, an antioxidant that studies suggest may support skin health and repair. The brand’s blend, which includes type I and type III collagens, is also third-party tested to be non-GMO. Plus, it’s gluten-free and keto- and paleo-certified. Overall, reviewers like the blueberry-acai flavor, which mixes well into shakes and smoothies.

Collagen per serving: 10g / Collagen source: Bovine / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Collagen peptides, French melon, astaxanthin, acai, probiotics

Amazon

This collagen peptides powder contains two forms of collagen (types I and III)—but it gets even better. The hydrolyzed collagen peptides in this product come from the highest quality grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine. “When the animals are pasture-raised and eat an ancestral diet, the collagen is more nutrient dense and has more skin, hair, and joint benefits for humans,” says Celeste Thomas, RN, a holistic skin care expert based in Los Angeles. She’s been taking this powder for years and has noticed significant improvements. “The most striking change was how fast my nails and hair grow, and how thick my nails are,” she says. “Based on my visible nail and hair results, I believe that the amino acids from the collagen powder are supporting the collagen production mechanism of my skin.”

Collagen per serving: 20g / Collagen source: Bovine / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides

Amazon

For anyone who follows a pescatarian diet or just wants an alternative to bovine collagen, this option comes highly recommended by Ruvini Wijetilaka, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician and provider at Parsley Health. She loves that this product has a decent amount of protein (9 grams, to be exact), along with hydrolyzed marine fish collagen peptides (which she says are beneficial for skin, hair, gut, and overall health).

Collagen per serving: 10g / Collagen source: Marine / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Collagen peptides (hydrolyzed marine fish)

Amazon

Maggie Moon, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian, is a big fan of Now Foods collagen products, calling them a “reputable brand with a long track record for high quality standards and testing.” She often recommends their BioCell Collagen to anyone who prefers a capsule over a powder. What’s more, she loves how accommodating this product is to so many dietary needs. “It’s dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, soy-free, gluten-free, halal, and non-GMO, for anyone who prefers or needs to be aware of these characteristics,” she says. What’s more, it contains hyaluronic acid, which may support skin health and hydration.

Collagen per serving: 1 g / Collagen source: Hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract / Form: Capsule / Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed type II collagen, hyaluronic acid

Amazon

Glamour contributor Neha Tandon loves Copina’s plant-based collagen blends—specifically, the vanilla flavor for her chai beverages and the cacao for coffee. “It adds this nice nutty flavor,” she says. “I’ve also been using it every day for about three months, and I notice my skin looking a lot more glossy and plump. I don’t think it’s a coincidence! I’ve even been getting compliments from friends asking how I’ve switched up my skin care routine.” This plant-based formula features ingredients like biotin, bamboo leaf extract, organic tremella mushroom fruiting body extract, gotu kola whole-plant extract, and amla berry—formulated to help support collagen production.

Collagen per serving: 405mg / Collagen source: NA / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Biotin, bamboo leaf extract, organic tremella mushroom fruiting body extract

Amazon

This vegetarian option is another favorite of Dr. King’s. She particularly loves that it contains a spectrum of good-for-you components, including eggshell membrane vitamins C, E, and B7 (biotin); plus a superfood blend of asparagus, okra, pomegranate extract, mangosteen, acai, camu camu, quercetin, acerola, and coffee fruit extract. What’s more, “in their study, after 50 days, 100% of participants reported improvement in facial wrinkles,” says Dr. King

Collagen per serving: None / Collagen source: Ovoderm collagen types I, V and X / Form: Capsule / Key ingredients: Eggshells, pomegranate extract, coffee fruit extract, biotin

Amazon

Goli’s vegan beauty gummies promote building collagen without actually containing the protein itself. That’s because the formula includes bamboo extract and vitamin C, which are both believed to support collagen production. On Amazon, this product has earned more than 8,000 five-star reviews: “[After] about three weeks, my nails got stronger, my hair was stronger to me, my face was brighter,” one review reads. Keep in mind that some experts aren’t fans of gummies due to the added sugar, but they may be a good-tasting fit for someone who isn’t a fan of drinking collagen or swallowing pills.

Collagen per serving: None / Collagen source: NA / Form: Gummy / Key ingredients: Superfruit blend, organic bamboo shoot extract, cane sugar, beta carotene for color

Ulta

Golde

Not a fan of taste of traditional collagen powders? This vanilla-coconut creamer from Black-owned wellness brand Golde is about to be your new favorite, whether you add it to your coffee or tea, or blend it in a smoothie. Unlike other collagen creamers, this one doesn’t actually contain the protein; it’s meant to help boost your body’s collagen production with bamboo extract. (Added hyaluronic acid and biotin help moisturize skin and strengthen hair and nails, respectively.)

Collagen per serving: None / Collagen source: NA / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Coconut milk powder, bamboo extract, hyaluronic acid, biotin

Needed

For Kutza, Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein powder ticks all the right boxes: It’s third-party tested, and made using grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine collagen. Plus, it’s a safe option for pregnancy, nursing, and even afterward—you don’t have to be pregnant to take it. It simply assists with meeting your protein quota and supporting healthy fetal-cell growth. When it comes to fighting postpartum hair loss, this collagen supplement can be a solution, and can also keep up your protein intake if you’re nursing. On top of all that, the taste is good, according to Kutza: “Not only does it meet all my requirements, but it also dissolves very easily in warm and cold beverages without gelatinizing, making it easy to add to any beverage.”

Collagen per serving: 15g / Collagen source: Bovine collagen / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed bovine collagen

Amazon

Vital Proteins is Dr. Kobets’s go-to brand of collagen supplement. If you are pescatarian and don’t eat meat or animal products from cows, try Vital Proteins’ fish-based marine formula. It’s Paleo-friendly and has no added sugars, and can easily dissolve in any liquid, whether it’s cold or hot (from smoothies to plain water to coffee or tea). Amazon reviewers remark that they can barely taste it in their favorite morning beverage.

Collagen per serving: 12g / Collagen source: Marine collagen from cod / Form: Powder / Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed marine collagen