The Top 11 Collagen Supplements, According to Registered Dietitians

This collagen product from German company Besha comes highly recommended by Moon. “I like that its collagen has the best research-backed evidence to help with aging skin issues, like crow’s feet, skin elasticity, and thigh cellulite,” she says. “Plus it’s versatile since it’s tasteless and stirs into cold and hot drinks well, thanks to its low molecular weight.”

Spoiled Child E27 Extra Strength Liquid Collagen

• Pros: Good flavor without an aftertaste; easy to absorb
• Cons: Contains artificial sweeteners

If you’re looking for a little help with visible signs of aging, consider Spoiled Child’s liquid collagen. This formula boasts a higher dose of vitamin C than competitors (with 89% of your daily value), which is great news for the skin’s elasticity and firmness. “Vitamin C supports your skin’s natural collagen matrix by helping with the stabilization and cross-linking of collagen fibers,” Callins says, adding that this process is necessary for skin to look healthy and firm.

We also like that Spoiled Child’s liquid collagen is made with hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which is an easier form of collagen for the body to absorb. In addition, the liquid formula is super easy and tasty to take, reviewers note. You can add it to sparkling water, smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal for a light mango or pineapple flavor and a collagen boost.

Thorne Collagen Plus

• Pros: Third-party-tested; contains longevity-supporting ingredients
• Cons: Contains stevia (which may have an aftertaste)

Collagen isn’t the primary type of protein that comes to mind when weight loss is the goal, but that doesn’t mean it can’t help. A 2023 study shows taking collagen may help support lean muscle retention during weight loss. Thorne is a very reputable supplement line, and their Collagen Plus delivers a clinically supportive dose of collagen peptides at 13g per serving, which is close to the dose in the referenced study (15g), Callins says. Plus, it contains nicotinamide riboside (NR), which has been shown to increase levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) in the body, helping support longevity and energy levels, 2023 research shows.

Reviewers love that Thorne’s Collagen Plus has a pleasant berry flavor, is easy to mix, and blends well into smoothies. It’s a great way to add some satiating protein to your morning shake, yogurt, or oatmeal without many extra calories (61 calories per scoop).

Vital Proteins Hair Complex

• Pros: Clinically studied; no artificial sweeteners; easy to absorb
• Cons: Only available unflavored

This popular supplement combines collagen and biotin, two well-known nutrients for hair growth. “Collagen provides amino acids that are building blocks for keratin, which is the protein that makes up your hair,” Callins says. “Biotin, which is a B vitamin, supports the infrastructure of keratin and is often used to improve hair strength and thickness.” Together, these superstar nutrients establish a strong foundation for hair growth.

Reviewers rave that Vital Proteins Hair Complex helped them grow thicker hair and stronger nails, but you have to take this supplement consistently for a few months before noticing improvements. “I’m on my third jar. My hair is thicker and growing faster. My nails look so much better after years of damage from constant gel usage,” one reviewer notes.

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