12 Of The Best Collagen Supplements For 2025, As Recommended By Experts And Editors

Understanding the different types of collagen

What should everyone know about collagen supplements?

“Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, accounting for around 80 per cent of the skin’s structure, though its distribution varies by type,” explains Jen Mackinder, resident nutritionist at Revive Collagen. “From your mid-twenties onwards, natural collagen levels begin to decline by about 1.5 per cent each year, which can affect the health and appearance of your skin, hair, nails, joints and bones.” She adds that taking a daily collagen supplement can help replenish these levels, especially when combined with supportive ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which enhance its effectiveness.

Which form of collagen is most effective?

“Hydrolysed collagen is broken down into smaller peptides, making it easier for the body to absorb,” says Hussain. “This enhances its ability to support the skin, hair, nails and joints.” While collagen can be sourced from marine, bovine, or porcine origins, all experts agree that its hydrolysed form is what truly matters for effectiveness.

According to Pupinder Ghatora, award-winning pharmacist and CEO of Ingenious, the hydrolysation process “severs any link between the source and the resultant peptide,” meaning the original source is irrelevant. “What truly determines a supplement’s effectiveness is its ability to deliver intact collagen peptides into the bloodstream,” he explains. “These peptides must be protected from digestive breakdown – particularly in the stomach – until they reach the small intestine, where absorption occurs. They also need to be of low molecular weight to allow for rapid absorption. Factors like source or collagen type are mostly marketing claims and do not impact efficacy.”

That said, certified nutritionist Jenny Logan still recommends prioritising type 1 collagen. “Type 1 makes up about 90 per cent of the collagen in the body, particularly in the skin, bones, tendons and ligaments,” she notes. “It’s the most important type to focus on, especially for maintaining skin structure and strength.”

Are all collagen supplements the same?

“No, not all collagen supplements are equal,” says Mackinder. “There are various factors to consider, including the format of the collagen supplement [such as] liquid, powder, gummies and tablets. Hydrolysed liquid collagen is the most effective way to ingest collagen, due to the fact that collagen peptides are broken down in the hydrolysis process, which allows for better absorption.” The type of collagen is also key. As mentioned, type 1 marine collagen is considered superior for benefits to the skin, hair, and nails due to the fact it has the most similar amino acid profile to human type 1 collagen in the body and makes up 80-90 per cent of the collagen in the skin, hair and nails.

Is marine collagen or bovine collagen considered the best?

“Marine collagen has higher bioavailability as it is a smaller molecular size than other forms, like bovine collagen,” advises Mackinder. “This makes it easier for the body to absorb and utilise. Marine collagen is also plentiful in glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, which are the amino acids that form key building blocks for skin elasticity, hydration and strength. Collagen supplements also differ due to their potency and dosage per serving. You typically need around 5,000mg per serving to notice the benefits.”

Can collagen help with menopause symptoms?

“Evidence suggests that as much as 30 per cent of skin collagen may be lost in the first five years after menopause,” says Dr Laura Wyness, explaining that this is why menopausal women may notice increased signs of skin ageing (think: wrinkles and sagging skin.) “In addition, the average woman loses up to 10 per cent of their bone density in the first five years after menopause.” These factors, combined with depleting collagen stores and the senescence of collagen-producing cells (the term given to cells when they stop dividing but don’t die), can result in common menopause symptoms such as joint stiffness and pain.

According to Hussain, taking collagen could help to counter these symptoms, because “the presence of ingested collagen peptides can activate fibroblasts in the skin and chondrocytes in cartilage. These cells are responsible for synthesising new collagen and elastin, as well as other key proteins which aid in tissue repair, improving overall skin elasticity and joint health,” she explains. Wyness thinks more research is needed on the benefits of collagen supplements, but agrees there is evidence to suggest supplements can alleviate menopause symptoms. “It’s thought that collagen supplements may help promote cartilage repair and increase osteoblast activity (the cells responsible for bone mineralisation),” she says, “and the evidence shows some promising results in relation to collagen supplements benefiting bone and joint health.”

Read more: A Comprehensive Guide To The Best Vitamin C Serum

Which collagen is best for anti-ageing?

Regardless of its source, all collagen works to combat the signs of ageing. As a general guideline, Logan recommends choosing a well-researched, hydrolysed marine collagen – specifically type 1. “Type 1 collagen is the primary structural support for the skin,” she explains. “As it degrades over time, we lose that support, which contributes to visible signs of ageing.” Studies show that maintaining high collagen levels through the use of absorbable collagen peptides may help slow the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Many experts favour marine collagen over bovine or porcine alternatives due to its smaller particle size, which allows for faster and more efficient absorption.

What’s the best vegan collagen?

While most collagen supplements are derived from bovine or marine sources, there are plant-based options that take a different approach. Rather than supplying collagen directly, these formulas mimic its structure and support the body’s natural collagen production. Typically, they contain a blend of plant-based ingredients – like amino acids sourced from fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Which collagen is best for joint health?

Collagen is found in bones, cartilage, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, so it stands to reason that it’s an excellent supplement to try if you suffer from sore, stiff or aching joints. As well as repairing cartilage and maintaining its stability and elasticity of which cushions bones and prevents friction, it reduces inflammation that contributes to pain. The best one to try? Ancient + Brave’s True Collagen.

How do I choose a collagen supplement?

When selecting a collagen supplement, two crucial factors are whether it is optimally protected from breakdown in the digestive tract and its molecular weight. A lower molecular weight means smaller particles, which allows for quicker and more efficient absorption into the body. “It’s also essential to choose a product that’s been independently and clinically proven,” says Ghatora. “Data from ingredient suppliers or basic consumer trials doesn’t accurately reflect a supplement’s true effectiveness.” Ghatora also notes that collagen peptides alone may not be sufficient. Supporting ingredients like hyaluronic acid — for hydration — and powerful antioxidants such as astaxanthin can enhance the quality of new skin cells. Together, these elements promote cellular regeneration, contributing to healthier, longer-living skin.

Vitamin C is another key nutrient to look for on collagen supplement labels, as it works synergistically with collagen. “Combining collagen with nutrients like vitamin C can boost its effectiveness,” explains Logan. “That’s because vitamin C plays an essential role in the body’s production of healthy collagen, supporting both skin and bone health.” She also emphasises the importance of proper dosage: “Most studies suggest supplementing with five to 10 grams per day for optimal results.” For this reason, powders and high-strength liquid sachets or shots are often preferable over capsules and tablets.

Can I take collagen every day?

As with any other health supplement, consistency and compliance are key, so collagen supplements need to be taken daily for good results. If you find yourself skipping your daily dose, it might be worth looking at other options that taste better or fit more conveniently into your existing daily routine. If you are unsure of how much you should be taking just make sure to follow the instructions on your collagen product.

How long does collagen take to start working?

“Results typically appear within six to eight weeks, though this varies by individual and many of our customers report noticing benefits a lot sooner, from two to four weeks,” says Mackinder. “Those with micronutrient deficiencies may experience results sooner, especially if the supplement contains high doses of vitamin C, which also helps to support natural collagen production.”

When should I take collagen, in the morning or at night?

“Evening is the ideal time as your body goes through a cell rejuvenation and regeneration process while you sleep,” says Ghatora. “Consistency is key with this type of supplement,” adds Logan. “So if you find it easiest to take it in your smoothie in the morning, that’s the best time. Conversely, if you find it easiest to remember to take it in the evening, then that’s the best time. The best results are seen with consistent long-term use.

What collagen does Jennifer Aniston use?

When she spoke to Vogue, Jennifer Aniston revealed that Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is the supplement behind her signature glowing skin. The star swears by mixing a scoop of the collagen peptides into her morning coffee to maintain a healthy, plump complexion. Following her endorsement, it’s no surprise that the Vital Proteins collagen supplement has become a popular choice, and several users (Vogue editors included) have attested to its effectiveness in their own rave reviews.