Doctors and Dietitians Say These Collagen Powders Can ...
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Collagen has been a hot topic in the world of wellness for years now. From anti-aging wrinkle creams to protein bars, it seems like this popular protein is everywher
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
Collagen has been a hot topic in the world of wellness for years now. From anti-aging wrinkle creams to protein bars, it seems like this popular protein is everywhere you look. Its popularity makes sense; as the body's most abundant protein, collagen provides structure and support—something we could all use a little help with as we age and our features change. And that's why people seek out supplements such as the best collagen powders to add an extra touch of the protein to their regular routine.
Meet the Experts: Rachel Jones, M.S., R.D.N., chief nutrition officer at GNC; Amy Lee M.D., chief medical officer of Lindora L.L.C. and head of nutrition at Nucific; Jim White, R.D.N., A.C.S.M. Ex-P, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios
Think of collagen as a strong, flexible glue. It helps hold together tissues like skin, muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, blood vessels, and cornea, explains Rachel Jones, M.S., R.D.N., chief nutrition officer at GNC. And with the help of protein-rich foods like fish, poultry, meat, soy, and legumes, the body produces it naturally. However, that production slows with age and can be compounded by habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, and lack of sleep and exercise, according to Jim White, R.D.N., A.C.S.M. Ex-P, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios.
In turn, research shows that collagen supplements (derived from animals including fish, chicken, and bovine) may keep levels optimal while also promoting skin elasticity, bone health, muscle strength, and joint flexibility. However, further research is needed to determine its bioavailability (a.k.a. how well it's actually absorbed) in supplement form, adds Amy Lee M.D., chief medical officer of Lindora L.L.C. and head of nutrition at Nucific.
But for now, the existing evidence is promising enough to get many wellness enthusiasts on board. And the minimal effort and cost make it worth trying for yourself. What could be a simpler addition to your routine than scooping a flavorless, finely milled powder into a morning smoothie?
Below, experts and happy customers share their favorite collagen powders.
Dietary supplements are products intended to supplement the diet. They are not medicines and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure diseases. Be cautious about taking dietary supplements if you are pregnant or nursing and be sure to consult your doctor before taking new supplements (or providing them to a family member) in any situation, as they can interfere with medication.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder
It's not just Rachel Jones, M.S., R.D.N., chief nutrition officer at GNC, who loves this powder—it's a best-seller and Jennifer Aniston's holy grail. Jones specifically likes stirring it into her morning coffee.She also likes that it's a collagen peptide formula, meaning the collagen has been hydrolyzed or broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed peptides, which are microscopic bundles of amino acids. "From a scientific standpoint, I know the peptides are going to be absorbed better," she adds. "It's a win-win. Expert review: "It blends easily (no clumps) and is unflavored so I'm able to get the benefits without impacting the taste," she says.
Super Collagen Peptides Powder
This affordable option is Dr. Lee's top pick and we can see why. "It is made from hydrolyzed bovine collagen with a good portion of protein per serving," she says. The hydrolyzed collagen comes from grass-fed bovine and promotes healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints.
Expert review: "I put it into my smoothies and because it doesn't have a flavor, it blends in with anything," Dr. Lee says.
neocell
Collagen Peptides Powder
This grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen is beloved by shoppers, garnering a whopping 41,000-plus Amazon reviews and a 4.4-star rating. It's unflavored and contains the brand's patented DigeSEB digestive enzymes for superior absorption and benefits.
Review: "I absolutely love this product. My arthritis feels better in my knees. I have more energy. Nails are growing. My skin looks great. I recommend this 💯," one happy customer writes.
physician's choice
Collagen Peptides
Unflavored and effortlessly whisked into hot and cold beverages, this hydrolyzed bovine collagen powder is a simple addition to your wellness regimen that has complex benefits. 11 grams of protein make it more filling than other collagen powders, and reviewers say it improves everything from skin to nails to arthritic joint pain.
Review: "After about two weeks, using a scoop in the morning and one at night, almost all the pain in my hips were gone," one reviewer writes. "A pulled muscle in my shoulder that I thought would never heal was feeling much better! My skin feels and looks the best it has in years and my hair is shiny and silky feeling."
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Collagen Peptides Powder
If you're not a fan of bulky canisters taking of cabinet or counter space, this bag of unflavored collagen peptides powder may be your best bet. One serving contains 10 grams of protein, and reviewers say it works wonders for their skin.
"I have been taking the Collagen Peptides for about a month and have seen a significant improvement of my complexion," one Amazon shopper writes. "I am 68 and have tried a lot of face cream etc but my skin is much clearer and tighter after taking this product."
live conscious
Marine Collagen Powder
Most collagen powders on the market are made with bovine, which doesn't bode well for those who don't eat beef. Pescatarians or those who are looking for a bovine alternative will enjoy this top-rated marine collagen powder sourced from wild-caught white fish. It's unflavored and has no fishy odor.
Review: "I put it in a smoothie with some fruit and protein powder and genuinely can not taste or smell it," a reviewer writes.
Amandean
Multi Collagen Protein Powder
Grass-fed beef, wild-caught tilapia, and cage free chicken (both chicken and egg shell membrane) are incorporated into this formula to make it as effective as possible. The recommended dosage is one scoop per 50 lbs of bodyweight, maxing out at four to five daily scoops, so that's something to keep in mind before purchasing. Reviewers say it dissolves well and tastes great in coffee.
Review: "Really great product! I love making a fruit and veg smoothie for lunch and this collagen works perfectly in it. The main issue I typically have with protein supplements is the gastrointestinal affect; I'll either get some bloating or just general discomfort. But not with this!" one customer writes.
CB Supplements
Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides Powder
Packed with 20 grams of collagen per serving, this powder is sure to give you a bang for your buck. Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, it simultaneously supports hair, skin, nails, joints, and digestion and is a great addition to overnight oats and smoothies.
Review: "I originally bought this for hair growth, since my hair has started to thin. Not only did it help with my hair, but my skin is AMAZING," one reviewer writes.
Orgain
Chocolate Collagen Powder
With the same perks as the best-selling Vital Proteins unflavored collagen powder, this one comes in a creamy chocolate taste. But don't fret—it has zero sugar or dairy and is lightly sweetened with stevia. Reviewers say it tastes great in everything from coffee to smoothies to overnight oats.
Review: "The flavor is great! I add it to my morning coffee, and it's like having a hot chocolate. I can't stand the taste of the 'unflavored' collagen powders," one reviewer writes.
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Primal Collagen
White gives this "easy-to-dissolve" collagen powder an "A+ rating" for its "globally sourced ingredients and premium quality hydrolyzed bovine collagen from grass-fed cows." It also contains essential amino acids, ample protein, and 20 mg of calcium.
Review: "I debated whether to take this, but I'm glad I did," wrote one reviewer who gave the product five stars on Amazon. "Overall health seems to be better, and my nails have really benefited. They were very brittle now they're so long and strong. I love this stuff."
Primal Harvest
How to choose the best collagen powders
✔️ Consider collagen source: Some packaging disclaims the type of collagen within, for example, type I or type II. "There are a few different types of collagen, but the primary ones are known as types I, II, and III," explains Jones. "Some research suggests the benefits of type I and type III collagen supplements are mainly related to muscle growth and support, weight management, beauty, and skin, while type II is best for supporting healthy joints."
✔️ Look for the words "collagen peptides" or "hydrolyzed collagen": "Not all collagen is created equal," says Jones. "This means the collagen is put through a special production process that hydrolyzes the collagen protein into smaller components, called peptides. Peptides are microscopic bundles of amino acids that are easier for the body to absorb–which means you get the most benefits!"
✔️ Know that collagen powders are not plant-based: Collagen powders are derived from animals, and there are currently no vegan or vegetarian-friendly supplements on the market. However, there are plant-based supplements that may help boost the body's natural collagen production.
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Benefits of collagen powders
With age, our bodies produce less and less collagen, explains White, who notes that you may notice a number of health benefits by adding collagen supplements to your diet, including:
Improvement of the skin, hair, and nails
Stronger bones
A healthier heart
Healthier joints
Increase in muscle mass
Reduced bloating and digestive issues
Faster injury recovery
However, more research is warranted to determine the supplements' bioavailability and effectiveness, experts explain. So as with any supplement, be sure to consult your healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.
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How we chose the best collagen powders
We consulted Rachel Jones, M.S., R.D.N., chief nutrition officer at GNC, Amy Lee M.D., chief medical officer of Lindora L.L.C. and head of nutrition at Nucific, and Jim White, R.D.N., A.C.S.M. Ex-P, the owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios. We also combed through countless ratings, reviews, and product specs to narrow down the best collagen powders for various needs and preferences.
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Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
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