Best Collagen Supplements for Skin, Hair, and Nails: Our Top Picks
Confused about collagen supplements? We break down the options and help you find the top collagen supplements that truly work for your skin, hair, and nails.
Fact CheckedAdvertiser Disclosure: We independently select all the products. If you click through links we provide, we may earn a commission.
Key Takeaways
- Type I, II, III, V & X collagen each support different areas—like skin elasticity, joint health, and nail strength.
- Hydrolyzed collagen peptides offer better absorption and proven results in skin hydration, joint comfort, and elasticity.
- Super Derm Complex is a top-rated multi-collagen capsule with clinically-backed ingredients and full-body benefits.
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides delivers 20g collagen plus Vitamin C & hyaluronic acid for skin and joint support.
- Ageless Multi-Collagen + Turmeric blends five collagen types with anti-inflammatory turmeric and golden milk for wellness.
- Look for bovine, marine, and eggshell sources, and added nutrients like Vitamin C, biotin, or hyaluronic acid to boost effectiveness.
Finding the right collagen supplement isn’t as easy as it sounds. With so many choices, you might wonder what are the best collagen supplements to buy.
In trying to gain clarity, many other things can keep you confused. For example, what form of collagen should you go for? Should you get collagen powder or liquid collagen?
This guide will break things down so you don’t waste time on products that don’t deliver. We’ll cover different types of collagen, how to pick the best one, and the top collagen options available today.
So, whether you’re after the best collagen peptides for skin or the best hydrolyzed collagen for better absorption, you’ll get clear answers here. No fluff. Just facts.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which collagen supplement works best for your skin, hair, and nails—and which ones aren’t worth considering. Keep reading to find the one that fits your needs.
Types of Collagen
There are five main types of collagen, each of which has a different effect on the body. Knowing what they do can help you choose the best collagen supplements.
Type I collagen is the most common and the one found in the best collagen for skin. It helps keep skin firm, smooth, and wrinkle-free and strengthens hair and nails.
Type II collagen particularly Undenatured collagen (UC-II) and hydrolyzed collagen, is a key player in joint and cartilage health. This forms of collagen help reduce joint pain and enhance joint function, especially for those with osteoarthritis. Type II collagen provides structure and resilience to cartilage, ensuring smooth movement and cushioning in your joints. Additionally, minor collagens like Types IX, X, and XI support the main collagen network, aiding cartilage repair and long-term stability. This combination offers comprehensive support for both healing and maintaining healthy cartilage.
Type III collagen works with Type I to keep skin elastic and soft. It also supports muscles and blood vessels. Many collagen supplements include Type III for better skin health.
Type V collagen helps form hair, eyes, and skin layers. It’s usually found in the best liquid collagen formulas.
Type X collagen is found in bones and joints. Some top collagen powder brands include it to support bone strength.
Choosing the best collagen supplement with the right mix can make a big difference.
We've selected the top three dietary collagen supplements and thoroughly evaluated them to help you find the best one with ease. Check out our detailed reviews of these collagen boosters to make an informed choice!
Our Top Picks
- Best for Skin, Hair, and Nails: Super Derm Complex Collagen
- Best Overall: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Advanced
- Best Multi-Collagen Blend: Ageless Multi-Collagen + Turmeric
How We Chose the Best Collagen Supplements
Not all collagen supplements work the same. Some dissolve better, others absorb faster, and a few don’t do much. Here’s what we looked at before making our picks.
- Effectiveness – A good collagen supplement should deliver visible results. We focused on selecting the best collagen supplement for skin that stands out as the most effective collagen supplement for improving hair strength, joint flexibility, and addressing common concerns like sagging skin, loose skin, and wrinkles—all backed by clinically proven, effective ingredients.
- A good collagen supplement should deliver visible results. We focused on selecting the best collagen supplement for skin that stands out as the most effective collagen supplement for improving hair strength, joint flexibility, and addressing common concerns like sagging skin, loose skin, and wrinkles This effectiveness is largely attributed to the inclusion of eggshell membrane, which naturally provides collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other vital nutrients that support overall skin and hair health. All ingredients are clinically proven to offer long-lasting benefits.
- Ingredients & Source – The best collagen powder comes from bovine, marine, or plant-based collagen sources. We prioritized high-quality and safe options. Additionally, look for best collagen supplements that include Vitamin C, Biotin, or Hyaluronic Acid to enhance collagen synthesis and absorption. These ingredients can further support your body’s ability to produce and utilize collagen effectively, maximizing the benefits of your supplement
- Dietary Suitability – Many people need gluten-free, non-GMO, and allergen-free options. The best collagen supplement should fit different diets without unnecessary additives.
- Form & Convenience – The best liquid collagen is easy to drinkand designed for quick absorption, delivering hydrolyzed collagen in a form your body can efficiently utilize. Similarly, the best collagen powder mixes well, and the best collagen capsules are formulated for convenience, so you don’t have to worry about taste. We evaluated how user-friendly each product is.
- Value for Money – No one wants to waste money. So, we made sure to choose the top collagen supplements that give real results at a fair price.
These factors helped us find the best collagen peptides so you can pick one that works.
Three Best Collagen Supplements in the U.S (In-Depth Product Reviews)
Our Score Breakdown
Effectiveness
Website Experience
Convenience
Cost
Availability
Product Name & Brand
Super Derm Complex by Flawless Bloom is a premium multi-collagen formula designed for skin, hair, nail, joint, and muscle support.
Type of Collagen & Source
Includes 5 Types of Collagen: Type I, II, III, V, and X
Sourced from:
- Bovine collagen peptides
- Hydrolyzed chicken collagen peptides
- Marine collagen peptides (cod fish)
- Eggshell membrane collagen peptides
- Avian sternum collagen peptides
Additional Beneficial Ingredients
- Magnesium Stearate – Helps with capsule absorption.
- Gelatin Capsules – Used for easy digestion.
- No artificial fillers or unnecessary additives.
How to Use & Taste
- Dosage: Take three capsules per day with a meal and water (or your favorite drink).
- Taste: Since it's one of the best collagen capsules, there is no taste or mixability issue like with powders.
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Supports skin, hair, and nail health
- Helps with joint mobility and muscle strength
- Includes five types of collagen for full-body benefits
- Easy-to-take capsules (no mixing required)
- Made in the USA in an FDA-registered facility
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not suitable for vegans (contains bovine, fish, and chicken collagen)
- Requires daily use for best results
Ratings
It has a rating of 4.7 stars and 97 percent of people recommend the product.
- Highly rated for effectiveness in skin, hair, and joint health
- Positive reviews for ease of use (capsule form vs. powder)
- Some users mention price as a drawback but note visible improvements in their skin and joints.
Price & Where to Buy
Price:
- $76.00 for one bottle (30-day supply)
- $66.50 per bottle for a 3-bottle pack (90-day supply)
- $47.50 per bottle for a 6-bottle pack (180-day supply)
Where to Buy:
- Available on the Flawless Bloom website.
- Comes with free U.S. shipping and a 60-day money-back guarantee
Our Score Breakdown
Effectiveness
Website Experience
Convenience
Cost
Availability
Product Name & Brand
Collagen Peptides Advanced by Vital Proteins.
Type of Collagen & Source
- Collagen Type: Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
- Source: Bovine (Grass-fed, pasture-raised)
Additional Beneficial Ingredients
- Vitamin C (90 mg per serving, 100% Daily Value) – supports collagen production.
- Hyaluronic Acid (120 mg per serving) – Helps with skin hydration and elasticity.
How to Use & Taste
- Usage: Mix 3 level tablespoons with 8 fl oz of liquid and stir well.
- Best with: Coffee, smoothies, oatmeal, or other beverages.
- Taste: Unflavored, dissolves easily in hot or cold liquids.
Pros And Cons
Pros
- 20g of collagen peptides per serving.
- Includes hyaluronic acid and vitamin C for additional skin benefits.
- Grass-fed and pasture-raised.
- Free from artificial sweeteners, dairy, and gluten.
- Easily dissolves in beverages.
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with bovine allergies.
- Not a complete protein (lacks some essential amino acids).
- Can be pricey compared to other collagen supplements.
Ratings
It has a rating of 4.4 stars from almost 10,000 reviewers. It is a popular choice among collagen supplements based on ingredients and benefits.
Price & Where to Buy
- Price: $29.99 (One-time purchase)
- Subscription Price: $25.49 (with a 15% discount)
- Available at: Vital Proteins Website & on Amazon
Our Score Breakdown
Effectiveness
Website Experience
Convenience
Cost
Availability
Product Name & Brand
Ageless Multi-Collagen + Turmeric by BioTRUST
Type of Collagen & Source
- Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen Peptides
- Hydrolyzed Fish Collagen Peptides
- Chicken Bone Broth Collagen Concentrate
- Eggshell Membrane Collagen
- Organic Golden Milk Blend
Additional Beneficial Ingredients
- Turmeric Root Extract is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Organic Ginger Root – Supports digestion and immune function.
- Organic Black Pepper Extract – Enhances turmeric absorption.
- L-Tryptophan – An essential amino acid that supports mood and relaxation.
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Five types of collagen for comprehensive support.
- Enhanced absorption with black pepper extract.
- No artificial sweeteners, hormones, or antibiotics.
- Supports skin, hair, joints, and digestion.
- Golden milk blend adds extra health benefits.
Cons
- Higher price compared to standard collagen powders.
- Not suitable for those with egg, fish, or nut allergies.
- May not dissolve as quickly as unflavored collagen powders.
Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5. Customer reviews are generally positive, with users praising the taste and joint health benefits.
Price & Where to Buy
- 1 Bag: $49
- 3 Bags: $44 per bag (Save 10%)
- 6 Bags: $39 per bag (Save 20%)
Expert Insights & Scientific Backing
Collagen supplements must be broken down in the gut before they can be absorbed. Large collagen proteins cannot be absorbed in their whole form, so they are hydrolyzed into smaller peptides or amino acids for better uptake. Research confirms that these collagen peptides do enter the bloodstream.
For example, multiple studies have shown that oral administration of collagen hydrolysate (CH) leads to di- and tri-peptides absorption.
A human trial further demonstrated that after taking collagen hydrolysate, volunteers had substantial levels of collagen-derived dipeptides and tripeptides in their plasma, indicating effective absorption and utilization by the body.
Although the fact that collagen product can help people in their athletic performance and avoid injuries is only going to be proved by the clinical evidence, so far early tests have had encouraging results, especially when their hydrolyzed collagen form is complemented by the use of vitamin C. Better joint and tendon health could be one of such advantages.
It has been found out that collagen supplements taken prior to exercise could induce natural collagen synthesis in the body, which might have tendon and joint health implications in athletic people. Nevertheless, these results are promising but have yet to be conclusive and additional studies are needed to determine the efficacy of collagen preventing injury or improving athletics.
Collagen supplementation has demonstrated more extensive evidence as far as other aspects such as skin health are concerned. There are a few randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, which have revealed that daily supplementation of hydrolyzed collagen peptides can considerably increase skin hydration, leading to elasticity and reduction of wrinkles within 8-12 weeks.
It is however important to note that majority of products of collagen have other ingredients, including vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which could also be contributing to the effects noted. Also, there are formulations which contain such minerals as zinc, which positively affects immune health. Nevertheless, more than 40 mg of zinc intake daily as a supplement can produce side effects. Certain medications may also react with zinc (eg; antibiotics, diuretics), thus decreasing their effectiveness.
The findings concerning collagen and its effects on the health of your hair and nails are less convincing and further well-developed research is needed.
Also, Dr. Melanie Palm, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, explains how collagen is processed once ingested: "When you ingest collagen, it's broken down into amino acids, and then your body uses those building blocks wherever they're needed."
Do Collagen Supplements Work?
The body can absorb collagen supplements, but they don’t work instantly or target specific areas. Once consumed, the body breaks them down into amino acids and peptides, which are then used as needed.
Studies show that collagen peptides reach the bloodstream, but the body decides how to use them. Some may support skin, joints, or hair, while others may go toward general protein needs. Results take time and depend on diet, age, and health.
It is also worth mentioning that various studies of collagen also incorporate other nutrients, hence the effects may not be singled out to be the act of collagen alone itself. However, the supplementation of collagens is not expected to cause any adverse effects because clinical trials have not indicated any. Nevertheless, more studies of its safety and effectiveness that are large and of high quality are required to clarify its long-term efficiency. Based on this, collagen supplements can benefit, and their effect must be viewed as part of a longer ongoing process instead of a short-term solution.
FAQs on Collagen Supplements
Our Top Collagen Supplements Choices
Here are our top picks for the most effective Collagen Supplements products currently available in the market, as per our assessment.
#1. Super Derm Complex
-
Pros
- Enhances joint mobility and strengthens muscles*
- May help reduce fine lines and wrinkles*
- Promotes strong hair and resilient nails*
- Includes antioxidants to combat free radical damage*
-
Cons
- Individual results may vary based on skin type and age
- May take few weeks of consistent use to notice visible effects
- Not a replacement for sun protection or a balanced diet
Rating Breakdown
- Ingredients
- Effectiveness
- Safety
- Cost
Overall Rating
4.9
#2. Triple Collagen
-
Pros
- Provides three collagen types for comprehensive support*
- Promotes healthy joints, skin, and hair*
- May help improve skin firmness and moisture retention*
- Often combined with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C for enhanced results*
-
Cons
- Collagen absorption may vary between individuals
- Best results seen when paired with healthy lifestyle habits
- May not be suitable for strict vegetarians or vegans
- Taste or texture might not appeal to all users (if in powder form)
Rating Breakdown
- Ingredients
- Effectiveness
- Safety
- Cost
Overall Rating
4.8
#3. BioCollagen Complex
-
Pros
- Combines collagen with key cofactors like biotin and silica*
- Supports skin resilience and joint flexibility*
- May aid in reducing signs of aging with regular use*
- Formulated for enhanced bioavailability*
-
Cons
- Effects are gradual and may require long-term use.
- May interact with certain medications—consult a doctor.
- Results may differ depending on age and collagen breakdown rate.
Rating Breakdown
- Ingredients
- Effectiveness
- Safety
- Cost
Overall Rating
4.8
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References
Flawless Bloom has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, academic institutions, governmental agencies, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Read more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial process.
- EFFECT OF MAGNESIUM STEARATE CONCENTRATION ON DISSOLUTION PROPERTIES OF RANITIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE COATED TABLETS: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5736124/
- Gelatin tannate reduces the proinflammatory effects of lipopolysaccharide in human intestinal epithelial cells: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3358810/
- Vitamin C: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_C
- Turmeric Benefits: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/turmeric-benefits
- Ginger Benefits: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits
- The effect of turmeric and black pepper powder incorporated in breakfast on postprandial glycemia, appetite, palatability, and gastrointestinal well‐being in normal‐weight adults: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11016436/
- Influence of Tryptophan and Serotonin on Mood and Cognition with a Possible Role of the Gut-Brain Axis: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4728667/
1 comment
Really helpful article! I was overwhelmed by the number of collagen supplements out there, but this guide broke it down so clearly. I actually started using Super Derm Complex after reading about it here, and I’ve seen noticeable improvements in my skin texture and overall glow within a few weeks. The fact that it combines collagen with other skin-supporting ingredients made a real difference for me. Thanks for the recommendation—definitely sticking with this one!