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By Hannah Coates and Tracy Achonwa
Skin feeling lax? The best collagen supplements not only slow down the body’s loss of collagen rate, they also work to firm up skin, boost elasticity and improve overall radiance. One of the building blocks of healthy skin, hair, nails and bones, collagen is the ultimate key to youthful looking, plump skin. Of course, as we get older, our natural resources deplete which is why collagen supplements are becoming increasingly popular as a way to combat the signs of ageing. “After the age of 30, we lose around one to two per cent of our collagen every year, which is why we can start to visibly age,” says Beauty Pie expert nutritional therapist Jenny Logan. “The idea of taking collagen is to slow this down.”
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The efficacy of collagen supplements has been widely disputed. After all, not all collagen supplements are created equal. That said, many would agree that, given the right formulation, collagen supplements can indeed slow down the body’s breakdown of collagen which in turn has a positive result on the health of your skin, hair and nails.
As a general rule, always ensure your supplement contains bioavailable collagen and has been subjected to clinical trials that prove their efficacy.
By Hannah Coates and Tish Weinstock
Collagen can come from multiple sources, from marine to bovine to porcine. In its natural form, collagen is too large a molecule to be absorbed by the body, which is why, when making supplements, it is broken down into smaller collagen peptides. This process is called hydrolysation.
“Hydrolysed collagen has basically been broken down in much smaller pieces, which the body can easily absorb and utilise,” says Logan. “Some research has further indicated that marine-sourced hydrolysed collagen could be up to 1.5 times better absorbed than other sources.”
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According to Pupinder Ghatora, award-winning pharmacist and CEO of Ingenious, the process of hydrolysation “severs any link between the source and the resultant peptide”, which means it shouldn't matter what type of collagen (and there are said to be 28) you use. “The overriding issue in choosing a collagen supplement is its ability to deliver the collagen peptide into the bloodstream without it being converted into amino acids. This means that the collagen peptide has to be protected from the natural processes of the intestinal tract, including the stomach, until it reaches the small intestine which is the site of absorption. It must then be of a sufficiently low molecular weight to ensure almost immediate absorption; as digestion continues in the small intestine. All other considerations such as source or collagen type are marketing hype and have absolutely no impact on the effectiveness of the supplement.”
Meanwhile, Logan recommends opting for type 1. “Type 1 collagen makes up 90 per cent of the collagen in the body, so it is certainly the one we should try and focus on the most – especially when looking to support the skin. Type 1 collagen is concentrated around the skin, bones, tendons and ligaments, helping to provide structure and strength.”
No matter the source, all types of collagen target the effects of ageing. As a general rule, Logan suggests opting for a well-researched hydrolysed, marine-sourced, Type 1 collagen. “Type 1 collagen provides the main support for the skin, helping to provide structure,” she says. “ As it breaks down, we start to lose that structure, which can lead to the signs of ageing. Research has indicated that keeping collagen levels high in the body, by using absorbable collagen peptides, can help to slow the down the development of lines and wrinkles.”
The key things to consider when choosing a collagen supplement is whether it is protected from the processes of the intestinal tract and is of low molecular weight. “Also, you need an independently clinically proven product, not one that uses active ingredient supplier data or consumer trials,” says Ghatora. “This will not indicate the true efficacy of any supplement. Another key consideration is that collagen peptide supplementation alone may not be enough: hyaluronic acid as a moisture-binding active and as well as a powerful antioxidant such as astaxanthin will help to ensure the new cells being produced are of the highest quality. These factors all contribute to cellular regeneration that can help increase health and longevity in skin cells.”
Vitamin C is another nutrient that works well with collagen. “If the Collagen is also combined with nutrients like vitamin C, this could help to increase efficacy,” says Logan. “This is because vitamin C is required by the body for the formation of healthy collagen, to support healthy skin and bones.” She also suggests ensuring you are taking the right amount. “Most studies indicate that we need to supplement 5-10g per day for optimal benefits.” Which is why powders and/or high-strength liquid-filled sachets/bottles are recommended over capsules and tablets.
Yes, it needs to be taken daily for good results. Make sure to follow the instructions on your collagen product.
Typically speaking, collagen supplements take a minimum of three months to work, which is approximately two complete skin cycles. “This ensures the new cells coming up to the surface are of the highest quality, please note, in some cases this will take longer as the body uses collagen in many other areas, not just the skin,” says Ghatora.
“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, in your hot chocolate, then that’s the best time. The best results are seen with consistent long-term use.
An easy way to ensure you get your collagen fix consistently (which is when it works optimally) is to blend into your daily coffee – just make sure that the collagen you use is flavourless to avoid an un-tasty shock.
While, yes, they are widely acknowledged as safe supplements to take, it’s always best to check with your doctor if you’re worried. Here, find the best collagen supplements to try now, as vetted by Vogue.
Rejuvenated Collagen Shots With 10,000mg Marine Collagen & Acai Berry
10,000mg of hydrolysed marine collagen, vitamins B5 and B6, vitamin C, antioxidant acai berry extract, niacinamide, zinc and copper.
Via an energising acai berry shot, Rejuvenated’s one-a-day supplement packs a hefty helping of peptides, vitamins and antioxidants to revitalise senescent cells all over the body. A tablespoon of the powder dissolves easily in water to make a refreshing daily beverage, which strengthens nails, thickens hair and improves skin suppleness and glow. What’s more, its benefits extend to joints and muscles too – when we tried a 30 day course, we were impressed with how it eased muscle soreness and recovery after especially strenuous workouts.
“I started adding Rejuvenated’s collagen shots into my pre-workout to streamline my morning routine, and after two months, the results have been pretty impressive. Unlike some collagen supplements which can be difficult and gloopy when mixed in water, the powder dissolves completely in a shaker and has a subtle berry flavour with no piscine tinge. The biggest benefits I’ve seen have been on my skin, which feels smooth, comfortable and moisturised before applying any topical creams – and the benefits to my body during my HIIT training. Where I usually get delayed onset muscle soreness after pushing myself, this simple addition seems to diminish those aches and shortens my downtime immensely.” — Tracy Achonwa, Vogue beauty commerce writer
10g of hydrolysed marine collagen peptides, reinforced with vitamin C for better absorption. For a health boost, natural actives like ginseng, guarana, turmeric and horsetail extract are also included depending on the flavour blend.
With Mocha, Matcha and Cacao blends, Aime’s collagen makes taking your daily dose an enjoyable treat. Swap out your morning beverage for the soluble sachets which promise improvements to fine lines, damaged hair, and brittle nails in as little as eight weeks. If you’re not sure which flavour takes your fancy, the discovery set includes sachets from the entire range – including a flavourless option that is easily mixed into salads and soups.
Vida Glow Collagen Liquid Advance
5g of hydrolysed marine collagen peptides, ascorbic acid to enhance absorption and Vida Glow’s propietary B-Blend4 antioxidant complex.
First came Vida Glow’s bestselling Natural Marine Collagen powder, and now, a liquid supplement with double the dose that’s even more bioavailable. This nectar-like elixir is tinged with berries and bursting with vitamin C, which works in tandem with hydrolysed peptides and antioxidants to boost collagen synthesis. Its low molecular weight ensures that it is readily absorbed throughout the body, supporting healthier nails, hair and skin from the inside out. We’re especially into the convenient squeeze sachets – achieving plumper, smoother skin on-the-go has never been easier.
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Bovine collagen peptides – 284g of them – which are easily absorbed by the body.
For those frantically googling “which collagen does Jennifer Aniston use?” this is it. The flavourless formula is her ticket to a next-level glow and she adds it into her morning coffee or smoothie each day. And it really is as easy as that – with a mini scoop that accompanies the tub, it is soluble in both hot and cold liquids, easy to digest and doesn’t taste of anything at all. And if it leads to the skin like Aniston’s… well, add to basket, immediately.
Absolute Collagen Marine Collagen Supplement For Men
8,000mg type 1 marine collagen, vitamin C and 7.7g of protein per serving. Lactose, dairy, soy and gluten-free.
While collagen’s age-defying benefits are not gender specific, the blend of ingredients in this supplement has been selected to cater nutritionally to men. As well as a unique sequence of amino acids and plenty of protein to help you maintain hard-won muscle gains, it’s enriched with vitamin C and natural extracts to nourish skin and hair – both on the head and beard. Users experiencing male pattern baldness note its transformative effects on a thinning crop, praising it for its ability to restore fullness and length.
Ovomet® (a naturally-occurring matrix of three types of collagen, elastin, glucosamine and hyaluronic acid derived from eggshell membranes) vitamins C & B12, ferrous citrate and maca powder
Nourished made its name printing bespoke multivitamins for your exact deficiencies, and its new range of collagen supplements takes that same tailor-made approach. There are stacks clinically proven to support an Age Rewind, Hair Skin & Nails, Sleep, Joint Health, and Energy, so you can choose collagen personalised for your goals. The gummies come in purse-friendly packets which are vegetarian and sugar-free, and full of flavour, they make your daily dose a treat you’ll look forward to.
“Those with very busy schedules will know preparing (and remembering) collagen supplements can feel like a chore. Determined to stay consistent, I stashed a few of the Nourished Collagen Energy stacks in my desk at work, handbag and kitchen drawer, and they quickly became my go-to during the morning rush. Highly snackable, they taste great and actually help offset fatigue – so much so I’d find myself forgoing coffee to chew on these instead. Looking up their ingredients, I’m certain that was the work of maca root powder, iron and vitamin B12 which science backs for a sustained energy boost. By the end of the course, I also noticed a reduction in my usual eyebags – the entire eye contour felt much more plump. I love the idea of taking a collagen supplement that can improve more than just skin. I’ll be putting in a subscription order for these and the Sleep support stacks next.”
There’s a cocktail of do-good ingredients in this supplement. Each beverage includes an optimal dose of vitamin C, biotin, folate, omegas 3 & 6, MSM and L-lysine as well as the all-important marine collagen peptides.
Skinade’s supplement is made with type 1 collagen from freshwater fish, which comes as a surprise on your first sip. Flavoured with peach and mangosteen, it goes down a treat and has no piscine aftertaste. Thanks to the liquid format (which boosts bioavailability) it’s also readily absorbed by the body, and packaged in convenient daily drinks, it’s a fuss-free way to get your collagen fix.
“Store these in the fridge and you won’t soon forget to take them, because they taste like a chilled tropical beverage. The resealable bottle makes it easy to sip throughout the day (which I took to doing after lunch and dinner) and as well as smoother digestion, I found my skin feeling softer and looking more deeply hydrated.”
Powder, which comes in handy, travel-friendly sachets.
The only ingredient in Vida Glow’s original formula is natural marine collagen, which is activated through a hydrolysation process. That means that the resulting collagen peptides are small in weight and more bioavailable, absorbing quickly and easily into the body. The marine collagen is made from sustainably-sourced fish skin.
As well as being ultra-effective and clinically proven to improve fine lines and wrinkles and hydrate the skin, Vida Glow’s collagen is also really easy to use. All you have to do is mix into your drink or add on to your food, and you’re good to go. It’s a big yes from us.
“I’ve taken to sprinkling the Vida Glow Collagen Original collagen into my soups and smoothies – it’s perfect for this given that it is completely flavourless. After four weeks of use, I can swear it’s restored a comfortable strength to my brittle nails, which is something I specifically wanted to target. On the skin front, my face has felt considerably less dry and tight, especially after washing when I usually have to moisturise immediately.”
Artah Skin Clinic Pro Collagen Supplement
Collagen peptides plus a proprietary blend of collagen-stimulating factors, including glycine, hyaluronic acid, lysine and vitamin C.
Boasting a synergistic duo of collagen and hyaluronic acid, Artah’s capsules promise skin that’s thoroughly plumped and nourished from within. Three capsules a day will set you on the path to longer hair and stronger nails, too, given the healthy dose of zinc and biotin in this powder’s blend.
Hydrolysed collagen, vitamins C & D, folate and Evening Primrose oil.
Formulated with 5,000mg of hydrolysed collagen per bottle, this is a supplement that packs a punch. The doses are designed to provide full spectrum support for skin, hair, nails and joints with added Evening Primrose for hormonal balance.
“When I started taking these Gold collagen supplements, I only really cared about fortifying my nails under a new set of gel nail extensions. Within just two weeks, a manicure that would have normally lasted me four had grown far past the cuticle – bad news for my mani, but a good problem to have. They come with rave reviews for rapid nail growth, so I was pleased, but considered that par for the course. What surprised me was the energy boost I had after each daily dose and the rejuvenated feel to my skin. My face felt bouncier and a month in I noticed some stubborn blemishes I had seemed to be brightening. It’s powerful stuff.”
Erba Glow + Flow Plant Based Collagen Support
L-Glycine, 500mg of MSM, prickly pear, amino acids, Horsetail extract, Saw Palmetto, vitamins A, C and E, biotin, zinc, copper and selenium.
Powered by plants and the principles of Ayurvedic medicine, Erba’s supplement not only supports collagen production but your health and wellness overall. It’s infused with adaptogens and superfoods to defend the body against stress, and is one of few collagen supplements on the market that is vegan, kosher and halal-friendly. With natural extracts of Horsetail and Saw Palmetto it promotes healthier hair growth, as well as calming skin with antioxidant-rich Prickly pear and peptides that boost resilience.
Sustainably sourced bovine collagen – each serving offers 10g.
More affordable than some other collagen powders, Dose & Co’s offering is also free from gluten, dairy, sugar and preservatives. Two teaspoons of the unflavoured, all-natural powder is all it takes to get your daily fix – like the aforementioned formulas, you can add it to drinks or food.
These capsules contain a patented ingredient called BioCell Collagen II that is clinically shown to boost skin’s collagen stores and soften fine lines and wrinkles. The formula also contains vitamin C for antioxidant protection and hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate.
An excellent all-rounder, especially if you love a capsule-based supplement, Solgar’s Collagen Hyaluronic Acid Complex Tablets combine collagen with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to quickly supercharge skin health. Gluten and dairy-free, consistent use will help cells to retain water for a plump appearance, while also strengthening collagen stores.
Three teaspoons of Bare Biology’s powder contains 5g of type one marine collagen peptides that are made from wild, sustainably-caught cod skin from Norway.
Low carbohydrate, halal-certified, high protein and gluten-free, Bare Biology’s collagen powder works just as well in stews, cookies and other hot food as it does in your drinks – so load up. One 300g pot lasts two months if you use it every day, so it’s also a good price per use, plus the packaging is also 100 per cent recyclable.
Utilises a low molecular weight collagen (type 1) sourced from easily digestible wild fish, alongside 250mg of vitamin C for good collagen formation, and 100 mcg of biotin for healthy skin and hair.
With a super natural-tasting berry flavour, this is a brilliant collagen powder if you’re looking for something that packs a punch – it will add a little sparkle to a bog-standard glass of water. One scoop offers 11.3g of collagen, plus the addition of vitamin C and biotin mean that you’re also boosting hair and nails while you’re at it.
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This formula comes as a ready-made drink in 10ml sachets.
8000mg of hydrolysed marine collagen as well as vitamin C.
Inside each one of Absolute Collagen’s travel-friendly sachets you’ll find 8000mg of marine collagen, which is the most concentrated dose available in the UK. Pre-mixed in each sachet, the addition of vitamin C works synergistically with the marine collagen to boost the skin’s natural collagen production and boost radiance. Free from lactose, gluten and dairy.
Collagen, retinol keratin, vitamin B6, B12, C and D.
Powered by a potent blend of nutrients, this collagen-rich sachet uses type 1 hydrolysed marine collagen to boost elasticity for youthful looking skin.
Marine collagen, vitamin C and A.
These marine collagen gummies target skin laxity, while added vitamin A works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Collagen, zinc, biotin, vitamin C and E.
This powerful supplements combines hydrolysed collagen with zin to help support healthy hair, skin and nails, while vitamins C and E protect the cells from oxidative stress.
Collagen, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid.
Enriched with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, these delicious gummies work to support the skin’s natural collagen levels and defend it from oxidative stress.
Extracted from sustainably sourced wild fish off the coast of France, this supercharged collagen powder helps increase the body’s natural collagen production, for youthful-looking skin.
Marine collagen, acerola cherry extract, beetroot extract and hyaluronic acid,
collagen wholesale suppliers This potent blend of nutrients uses digestive enzymes to enhance collagen production, while hyaluronic acid supports skin hydration.