Menu
very logo
SearchSavedBasket

Save up to 40% off

Easter
Back to Very Inspired
Model smiling excitedly while holding a sachet of Vida Glow's liquid collagen

Beauty

The Best Collagen Supplements: Collagen Supplements Buying Guide  

Collagen is currently the talk of health and beauty spaces everywhere, but it’s more than just a trend. It’s an essential part of how our body functions and is a key building block in supporting healthy bones, skin, joints and muscles.  

You might have noticed collagen cropping up in everything from skincare to supplements with a range of benefits being reported, but if you’re feeling confused about where to start, we wouldn’t blame you.  

There’s a lot to learn about collagen and how taking supplements could benefit you, so we’ve put together this guide to demystify the science and tell you all you need to know – from the different collagen types and what they do, to the various forms of supplements and how each is best suited to help you achieve your goals. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast or someone who’s just starting to explore collagen supplements for the first time, we’re here to break it all down for you.  

Someone sprinkling collagen powder into a glass of water

What is Collagen? 

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in our body and it plays a vital role in your overall wellbeing. It provides elasticity, strength, structure and support through the body, which helps to keep bones strong, hair and nails healthy, muscles limber and skin looking plump, youthful and wrinkle-fee.  

Unfortunately, as we age the amount of collagen our body naturally produces begins to decrease. From as early as our mid-twenties our collagen production begins to drop by around 1% each year and the regeneration processes begins to slow. This is when our bodies begin to show those all too recognisable signs of ageing, like joint stiffness, loose or wrinkled skin and weakened hair and nails. 

The good news is that adding a daily collagen supplement into your routine can give your collagen levels a boost and see you experience a range of benefits, from reduced joint pain to younger looking skin. 

Check out our wide range of health and beauty supplements where you can find selection of collagen based options.   

Types of Collagen Explained 

Before beginning to take collagen supplements, it’s important to know all about the different collagen types, sources and forms, and what each one can do for you.  

Supplements will typically contain the same types of collagen that are already found in your body, making it easy to give your collagen game a boost. Knowing the benefits of each collagen type can help you pick out the right supplement to support your wellness goals. 

Collagen Types 

There are 28 different types of collagen, but types I to III are the ones you’re most likely to find in supplements. Type I is the most common and makes up around 90% of your body’s collagen, while Types II and III are the next most common. Below, we’ve put together a table breaking down the benefits of each of these three collagen types:  

Table displaying the types of collagen supplements that there are

Types

Where it’s found

What it can do for you

I

Skin, hair, nails, bones and tendons

Improve skin elasticity for reduced wrinkles and younger looking skin. Strengthen bones, tendons and ligaments. Support hair and nail growth.

II

Joint cartilage

Promote joint and cartilage health. Reduce joint stiffness and pain.

III

Skin, blood vessels and organs

Works alongside type I collagen to support skin firmness and elasticity. Supports gut and cardiovascular health.

Marine vs. bovine vs. porcine sources 

Typically, collagen supplements will come from one of three different sources – bovine, marine or porcine. Below, we’ve broken down these different collagen sources and the ways they can benefit your wellness: 

Hydrolysed collagen (collagen peptides) vs. native collagen 

When we talk about hydrolysed collagen or native collagen, this basically refers to the molecular form the collagen protein comes in. This is important to be aware of as it impacts how easily collagen is absorbed into the body.  

Collagen peptides (or hydrolysed collagen) are small fragments of collagen protein that have been broken down through a process called hydrolysis. When collagen is hydrolysed, it becomes more bioavailable – meaning the body can absorb and use it more effectively.

On the other hand, native collagen is the whole protein in its complete molecular form. This larger form can be difficult for the body to use effectively, as it can’t be absorbed whole and your body must first do the hard work to break down.

Because of the high levels of bioavailability, collagen peptides are generally considered a more effective option for supplements, though it’s worth noting that native collagen can be an effective option for supporting joint health.  

Choosing the Best Collagen Supplement for Your Needs 

So, how do you go about picking a supplement? As with anything, it’s important to start with what your needs are and go from there. Keep in mind that different supplements are often better suited for tackling particular concerns and look out for supplements that are paired with other hero ingredients – like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid for skincare concerns – as these can potentially further boost your collagen supplements effects and help you achieve specific goals.  

Best Collagen for Skin & Anti-Aging 

Are you after healthier, younger-looking skin? Then you’ll want to make sure you’re picking a collagen supplement that contain either type I or type III collagen. Skincare focused collagen products will also often contain hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, as these can help to support skin hydration and maintain elasticity and firmness.  

MyProtein’s Beauty Collagen Shot and Vida Glow’s Anti-G-OX Berry Powder Sachets are both top choices for collagen supplements that could have skin looking plump and youthful. 

Bootle of MyProtein’s Beauty Collagen Shot
Shop MyProtein’s Beauty Collagen Shot
Packet of Vida Glow’s Anti-G-OX Berry Powder Sachets
Shop Vida Glow’s Anti-G-OX Berry Powder Sachets

Best Collagen for Joint Health & Mobility 

Picking the right collagen supplement can be an effective way to relieve the stiffness and aches that come with age. Are you after a collagen supplement that can give your mobility a boost? Then you’ll want to keep an eye out for a supplement containing type II collagen.  

When it comes to a supplement that promotes flexible joints, stronger tendons and healthy cartilage, our top picks are the Pura Collagen Flex+ powder supplement and Bio Synergy’s Marine Collagen powder.  

Containers of Pura Collagen Flex+ powder supplement
Shop Pura Collagen Flex+ powder supplement
Large container of Bio Synergy’s Marine Collagen Powder
Shop Bio Synergy’s Marine Collagen Powder

Best Collagen for Hair & Nails 

We all want smooth, glossy hair and strong nails, don't we? Well, we're here to tell you there’s an easy way to get there. You’ll want to make sure you’re choosing a supplement containing type I collagen, and keep your eyes peeled for products containing biotin, which supports strengthening nails and hair, or zinc, which can prime the body to effectively absorb collagen.   

Our go-to picks for strong nails and glossy hair are Applied Nutrition and Coleen Rooney’s Marine Collagen Powder and Myvitamins Coconut and Collagen V1 Capsules.  

Box of Applied Nutrition and Coleen Rooney’s Marine Collagen Powder
Shop Applied Nutrition and Coleen Rooney’s Marine Collagen Powder
Bottle of Myvitamins Coconut and Collagen V1 Capsules
Shop Myvitamins Coconut and Collagen V1 Capsules

Best Collagen for Fitness Recovery 

We all know how important recovery is when it comes to hitting your fitness goals, but what you may not know is that collagen supplements could aid in muscle recovery. Collagen can provide amino acids that help with tissue repair and regeneration, potentially leading to reduced muscle soreness and faster recovery times – meaning there’s one less thing standing between you and smashing your fitness goals.  

If you’re looking for a supplement that can also aid in post-workout recovery, then consider choosing one that contains type I or type III collagen.  

Dose & Co’s Collagen Protein Powder and Bio Synergy’s Active Woman Energise Creatine & Marine powder are our go-to picks for getting a post workout boost.  

Tub of Dose & Co's collagen protein powder
Shop Dose & Co’s Collagen Protein Powder
Large white tub of Bio Synergy’s Active Woman Energise Creatine & Marine Powder
Shop Bio Synergy’s Active Woman Energise Creatine & Marine Powder

Collagen Supplement Formats Compared 

Curious about how you can get collagen into your diet? There are plenty of formats to choose from that will work around your lifestyle: 

Collagen Powders

One of the most popular formats, collagen powder typically delivers more collagen per serving than other formats, which can lead to quicker and more noticeable results. You can even get your daily dose in before the school run by mixing into smoothies, coffee, water or recipes, and they’re available both flavoured and unflavoured so you can easily find one that suit your tastes. Powders aren't the best choice if you're someone who’s always on the go – they require mixing and aren’t as easily portable as other supplement options.

Collagen Gummies

A quick and easy way to consume collagen, gummies are another good choice for those on-the-go. They generally have a sweeter taste that’s often much tastier compared to other supplement options and they’re pre-measured, so you’ll always get a consistent dosage. However, gummies typically have a lower amount of collagen per serving compared to other formats and they can contain added sugars, meaning they can be one of the less healthy options.

Liquid Collagen

Another convenient option for those on the go, liquid collagen comes pre-measured and ready-to-drink. However, the liquid format typically contains less collagen per serving than the powder format does and can be a more expensive long-term.

Collagen Capsules

If you’re the type that’s always heading from school run to the gym to back-to-back meetings, then capsule supplements might be the right choice for you. Small and easily portable, you can effortlessly fit your daily dose of collagen in around your busy day. Capsules come with a pre-measured dosage so you can be sure you’re always getting a consistent amount of collagen and they’re perfect for those who dislike the texture or taste of the powder and drinks options. However, capsules typically contain a lower dose of collagen per serving than other formats, meaning they can be a less cost-effective option.

Key Ingredients to Look For 

Want to see collagen boost your wellness even further? Keep an eye out for these key ingredients that can increase the effectiveness of supplements and have you seeing more significant results. 

Other Things to Consider When Buying Collagen Supplements 

Dosage & Frequency 

Everybody’s needs are different and the amount of collagen you require per day will ultimately depend on what your goals are. Factors like your diet, age and general health can play a part in determining the specific amount you should take but it’s generally considered safe to take between 2.5 to 15 grams of collagen per day.  

Individual needs may vary but typically a smaller dose of 2.5g per day can be effective in relieving joint pain and supporting skin health and hydration, while 5g per day can be effective for those with bone health concerns. Larger doses of around 15g per day can be effective for those looking to improve muscle mass and injury recovery.  

This will usually work out as around 1-2 scoops or tablespoons of collagen powder daily, or if you're using gummy or pill supplements, 1 or 2 pieces. The amount of collagen per serving will likely be different depending on the type and brand of collagen supplement you're using, so always be sure to check the label to see how much you need. 

Glass of water with someone dropping a spoonful of collagen powder into it

Safety & Side Effects 

Fortunately, collagen supplements are generally safe to use for most people and are not likely to cause any major negative side effects, though some minor side effects have been reported. These include bloating, mild diarrhoea and rashes.  

It’s always recommended to check the ingredients label before taking any new supplement, as some people can have allergies, sensitivities or dietary restrictions.  

In particular, if you’re allergic to shellfish you’ll want to avoid collagen derived from marine sources. While those with dietary concerns may want to avoid collagen that comes from bovine or porcine sources as they are unlikely to be kosher, halal or vegetarian.  

It’s important to also be aware that collagen supplements are not regulated by the NHS, so quality can vary. Make sure you’re always purchasing from trusted sources to ensure you’re getting safe, high-quality supplements.  

Vegan Options 

As collagen can only be derived from animal sources, there is no true vegan collagen. There are however alternative options that are instead meant to boost and support your body’s own collagen production.  

These vegan products typically contain ingredients, vitamins and minerals like silica, biotin, and vitamin C that work to stimulate the body’s production of collagen rather than being a direct source of it. 

Pot of the Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream with the lid off - showing the pink jelly cream inside. A small spatula with the product on it is next to the container.

Are there alternatives to collagen supplements?  

We get that supplements might not be for everyone but don't worry, there's some great non-supplement options out there that can offer similar benefits.   

There's a bunch of collagen-infused skincare treatments that you can add to your routine instead of supplements that can give your skin a quick, nourishing boost. Skincare staples like serums, moisturisers and cleansing balms that contain collagen can help to enhance skin elasticity, while reducing visible signs of aging over time.  

Another great alternative is eye masks. The area around our eyes is particulaly vulnerable to collagen loss, resulting in dark circles, puffiness and fine lines as we age. If this is something you're looking to combat, you might want to try out a collagen eye mask that can plump, brighten and rejuvenate the skin for a more youthful appearance.  

If you're not interested in traditional skincare options, why not go for something a little more high-tech? Light therapy masks use red LED lights to promote cellular regeneration and stimulate collagen production. 

Feel your best  

And there you have it, a comprehensive dive into all things collagen. Hopefully now you’ve got everything you need to find the right collagen supplements to support your goals and give your wellness routine a boost.  

Looking for a couple of extra product picks? We’ve got you covered – we’ve picked out the best collagen powder supplements you can take in 2025. Looking for more skincare advice? Check out our guide to repairing the skin barrier to get plump, radiant skin that’s healthy from the inside and out.  

FAQs