If you spend time on social media, you’ve probably heard that collagen is a must supplement you should start taking as soon as possible. Is it another marketing trick or something we should all actually add to our daily routine?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, and it accounts for around 30% of all proteins. It’s fundamental for keeping our muscles, bones, and skin tight and strong. It’s, like any other protein, built from amino acids, namely glycine, hydroxyproline, and proline. As we age, the amount of collagen in our bodies decreases, and it is important to consume it, primarily through a balanced diet, but also with the help of adequate supplements.
We did a small research, so you don’t have to, and found out what the best collagen supplements on the market are at the moment.
Soul Strips (melting strips)
Soul Strips Replenish comes with 30 oral strips that dissolve on the tongue in 60 seconds. It has a light orange flavour, and it makes daily use simple, tasty, and much more fun than taking pills or mixing collagen powders into shakes.
The formula contains SkinAx²™ (a vegan collagen) with vitamin C, biotin, and citrus bioflavonoids, nutrients known for supporting collagen production, skin hydration, and antioxidant protection. The brand sells them as one of the best supplements for women , and if you’re noticing early signs of skin ageing or worrying about the strength of your bones and muscles in the future, it’s time to try Soul Strips.
Neocell Collagen Bio-Peptides
Brand Neocell has a bunch of collagen products. Their bestseller is Collagen Bio-Peptides Protein Powder. Its collagen is of the highest quality, and in combination with protein, it really is the best supplement for muscle gain.
Along with the powder, there’s also a popular Neocell liquid collagen with pomegranate flavour. You can take one tablespoon of it per day, or mix it into water, juice, or a morning smoothie.
The third Neocell product with collagen is Collagen peptides with vitamin C and biotin in the form of 270 caplets. Practical solution for 270 days in the year.
Sunshine Nutrition advanced collagen + vitamin C
This product is especially popular, and the brand is one of the fastest-growing in the nutritional supplements industry. It contains 6g of type I & type III hydrolyzed collagen.
Sunshine Nutrition’s advanced collagen has an addition of vitamin C and makes an excellent combination for healthy and really glowy skin. It comes in a package of 100 tablets. For the best results, it’s recommended to take 3 tablets per day with meals. Read about more great supplements for skin in our blog.
Auracos Fish Hydrolyzed Collagen
Auracos Fish Hydrolyzed Collagen is a marine-based collagen powder made from fish, known for its high bioavailability. It dissolves easily in water, coffee, or smoothies and is often chosen by people focusing on skin elasticity, joint comfort, and overall connective tissue support. Thanks to its neutral taste, it’s easy to include in a daily routine.
Natures Aid Collagen with Zinc, Vitamin C, and B
Natures Aid Collagen comes in tablet form and combines collagen with zinc, vitamin C, and B-vitamins, nutrients commonly linked to skin, hair, and nail health. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation, while zinc supports skin maintenance. It’s a practical option for those who prefer already measured daily doses more than powders.
Youtheory Collagen Powder
Youtheory Collagen Powder provides a high dose of hydrolyzed collagen peptides in an unflavoured powder form. It can be mixed into hot or cold drinks without changing the taste, so it’s super easy to use consistently.
KIKI Health Pure Marine Collagen
KIKI Health Pure Marine Collagen is a single-ingredient marine collagen powder, sourced from wild-caught fish. It contains no added sweeteners, flavours, or fillers, which makes it suitable for minimal-ingredient diets. This product is typically chosen by people looking for clean, simple collagen supplementation.
Gold Collagen Forte
Gold Collagen Forte is a ready-to-drink liquid collagen supplement, designed for daily use. In addition to hydrolyzed collagen, it includes vitamin C and antioxidants, and comes in pre-measured bottles for convenience. It’s often preferred by those who want a quick, no-mix option.
Reserveage Collagen Replenish Powder
Reserveage Collagen Replenish Powder is a multi-collagen formula containing several collagen types, usually combined with vitamin C and trace minerals. The powder is lightly flavoured and dissolves easily in water. It’s positioned as a daily collagen drink for people focusing on skin, joints, and healthy ageing.
What types of collagen exist?
There are around 28 types of collagen, believe it or not. However, the main five are:
- Type I (in skin and bones, for strength);
- Type II (in cartilage, important for joints and their flexibility and support);
- Type III (in skin, muscles, and vessels, for elasticity and structure of muscles);
- Type IV (in the basement membranes, an important part of the layers of skin);
- Type V (in the surfaces of cells, hair, and placenta).
Unhealthy habits that decrease collagen in our bodies
Several everyday habits can speed up collagen breakdown over time. Smoking, excessive sun exposure without protection, and high sugar intake are among the biggest contributors, as they increase oxidative stress and damage collagen fibers.
Chronic stress, poor sleep, and diets low in protein and vitamin C can also interfere with the body’s ability to maintain normal collagen levels.
When should I start taking collagen supplements?
There’s no fixed age, but collagen production naturally begins to slow down in the mid-20s. Some people choose to start supplementation early as a preventive step, while others wait until they notice visible or physical changes. It’s generally considered a long-term, consistency-based supplement, rather than a short-term fix.
Signs you may need to take collagen
Common signs include loss of skin elasticity, fine lines, dry or dull-looking skin, brittle nails, slower hair growth, or joint stiffness, especially after activity. These changes don’t always mean collagen deficiency, but they can indicate that the body’s natural production is declining.
If you have chronic lower back pain or have had some injuries in the past, maybe it’s time to consider taking collagen supplements.
Can everyone take collagen supplements?
Most healthy adults can take collagen supplements, but they are not suitable for everyone. People with fish or shellfish allergies should avoid marine collagen. Also, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific medical conditions, please consult a healthcare professional first. Quality, dosage, and ingredient transparency are also important. Read descriptions of products carefully and choose the right one for you.
Does eating food rich in collagen help with its production in the body?
Collagen-rich foods like bone broth provide amino acids, but the body doesn’t absorb collagen directly as collagen. Instead, it breaks it down into amino acids and rebuilds collagen where needed. For this process, nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and adequate protein intake are just as important as collagen itself.
