• Help minimize the appearance of fine lines*[7]
• Support skin elasticity*
• Support muscle health*

POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTATION*

• Provide essential amino acids and protein*
• Support hair thickness and density
• Support joint health and an active lifestyle*
• Support skin health*

Why your body needs collagen 

As the most abundant protein in the body, collagen plays a key role in maintaining healthy-looking hair and skin, joint and bone health, and can help build muscle mass and support an active lifestyle.[2,3]  Here’s the unfortunate biological reality though: the older you get, the less collagen your body produces. It starts to decline between ages 18-29. By 40, we may lose about 1% per year. This may lead to weaker and more brittle hair and nails, less mobility, a loss of skin elasticity, and more visible fine lines and wrinkles.[2,3] 

Primal Collagen by Primal Harvest delivers hydrolyzed bovine collagen types I and III that have been produced with GelcoPEP® technology for maximum dissolvability and absorption support.*

This formula dissolves quickly and easily and is neutral in flavor, making it convenient to stir into any liquid of your choice, from your morning coffee to smoothies and juice. You can even shake it in a shaker for when you're on the go. Each scoop provides you with 10 g of ultra-premium hydrolyzed collagen, 20 mg of calcium, and a wide range of amino acids.

Primal Collagen is third-party lab tested and made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients. The brand also offers a convenient Subscribe & Save program which means you can order Primal Collagen through their convenient and hassle-free subscription service. By signing up for a subscription you get 20% off all products plus free shipping.

All in all, this collagen supplement delivers great value and quality at a reasonable price point. To top it off, Primal Harvest offers a 90-day money-back guarantee for all of its products.

• Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients 
• Premium quality hydrolyzed bovine collagen from grass-fed cows
• Essential amino acids
• 9 g of protein plus 20 mg calcium
• Unflavored, easy-to-dissolve powder
• GelcoPEP® technology for mixability
• The brand offers a hassle-free subscription service 

PROS

CONS

• Only available online
• Due to popularity, sometimes runs out of stock

BOTTOM LINE

2. Multi Collagen

by BeautyLux[1]

PROS

• 5 collagen types
• Collagen from 4 food sources
• Hydrolyzed collagen
• Dissolves well
• No unpleasant aftertaste
• Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients

CONS

• Only sold online
• Sometimes runs out of stock

BOTTOM LINE

BeautyLux Beauty Multi Collagen is an unflavored multi-collagen peptide powder, formulated from bovine, marine, chicken, and eggshell membrane collagen. This premium powder features collagen types I, II, III, V, and X which are sustainably sourced from cage-free chickens, grass-fed cows, and kosher, North Atlantic fish.*

Each once-a-day serving contains 7.8 g of hydrolyzed collagen which can easily be added to any liquid of your choice. As an added perk, the formula also contains 7 g of protein.*

This unflavored collagen powder mixes well and leaves no aftertaste. It's made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients and is third-party lab tested. 

by Vital Proteins

PROS

• Made in the USA
• Gluten and dairy-free
• Certified grass-fed bovine collagen

CONS

• 110 mg sodium
• No 90-day money-back guarantee

BOTTOM LINE

Collagen Peptides by Vital Proteins is formulated with 20g of grass-fed and pasture-raised collagen. 

Like Primal Collagen by Primal Harvest, the Vital Proteins formula is easy to use. Although this unflavored formula is a solid choice for a collagen powder, some people may want to note that it contains 110 mg of sodium. This is especially something to consider for those watching their sodium intake. It also makes the product less versatile as the sodium content may impact the flavor.

3. Original Collagen Peptides

by NativePath

PROS

• Grass-fed bovine collagen 
• Single-ingredient formula 
• Dissolves clump-free

CONS

• Premium price point 
• No calcium content

BOTTOM LINE

Original Collagen Peptides by NativePath is formulated with 10g of grass-fed bovine collagen per serving. While it offers a clean, single-ingredient formula similar to our top picks, the higher price per serving may make it a less attractive choice for those looking to adhere to a budget. The powder dissolves well in beverages and contains minimal sodium, which is a plus. However, the lack of calcium is notable since calcium works synergistically with collagen to support bone health and density. Without this crucial mineral, users may need to supplement separately for optimal results. 

5. Super Collagen Peptides

by Neocell

PROS

• Hydrolyzed bovine collagen 
• No artificial flavors 
• 8g protein per serving

CONS

• No calcium content
• 60-day money-back guarantee

BOTTOM LINE

Super Collagen Peptides by Neocell is formulated with 10g of hydrolyzed collagen per serving. The unflavored powder dissolves reasonably well in most liquids. However, like other lower-ranked competitors on this list, it lacks added calcium content that may help support optimal collagen synthesis and bone health. Those considering this option should also note that while there is a money-back guarantee, it only extends to 60 days, falling short of the 90-day guarantee offered by some higher-ranked options. 

Our Choice

by Primal Harvest[1]

• 10 G Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen
• 9 G Protein Plus 20 MG Calcium
• Essential Amino Acids
• GelcoPEP® Technology for Mixability
• Free Shipping on Orders Over $75

Based on 3732 Reviews of Primal Harvest 

4. Collagen Peptides

5 MAIN TYPES OF COLLAGEN

When it comes to supplements there are five main types of collagen, types I, II, III, V, and X. Although each of them is linked to different wellness benefits, here are the five commonly found collagen types:

Our Choice: Collagen Supplements in 2025

What To Look For

What To Avoid

Important Criteria

Hydrolyzed Collagen

Types I and III Collagen

Sourced from Bovine

Dissolves/Mixes Well*

Neutral Flavor*

Over 5 g Protein 

Calcium

Multi Collagen by BeautyLux

Collagen Peptides

by Vital Proteins

Original Collagen Peptides

by NativePath

Super Collagen Peptides by Neocell

What is collagen?

Simply put, collagen is a protein that forms the connective tissue all over our bodies. It is found in skin, nails, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Collagen is primarily made up of amino acids and makes up about 70-80% of the dry weight of your skin.[2]

What Can Collagen Supplements Do?

Taking a collagen supplement is a convenient way to increase your collagen, protein, and amino acid intake. Although collagen is also present in foods such as bone broth, one huge benefit of a supplement is that the exact quantity of collagen is listed on the label. With a high-quality collagen supplement, you can always be sure you know exactly how much you’re taking. 

Type I

This is the most abundant collagen in the human body, found in skin, bone, ligaments, and even teeth. Type I collagen is the primary building block of your skin, and may support skin elasticity and hydration. Bovine collagen is a common source of type I collagen. [3,4]

What To Look For In A Collagen Supplement

What Are The Different Collagen Sources?

Bovine Collagen

Naturally sourced from cattle, bovine collagen is rich in collagen types I and III. It also contains protein and a diverse amino acid profile. Because it delivers types I and III, it’s often used for skin, hair, nail, and joint health. [5]

Marine Collagen

Rich in collagen type I, this collagen is sourced from different marine species, typically fish (skin, bones, fins) but also jellyfish, sponges, and other by-catch from the fishing industry. [5]

Chicken Collagen

Chickens also provide a natural source of collagen, including types I, II, III, and V. These are usually extracted from different parts of chickens such as the feet, neck, skin, and muscles. [5]

All Collagen Is NOT Created Equal

With over 300 various collagen supplements on the market, choosing the collagen that is right for you can seem like an uphill battle. When choosing a collagen supplement, always read labels, verify origins of ingredients, or research these important details before making your decision:

What To Try To Avoid In A Collagen Supplement

Type II

Sometimes colloquially referred to as “joint support” collagen, type II is found in the cartilage that supports our joints. That’s why some people turn to type II collagen when they experience joint concerns.  Hydrolyzed chicken collagen is considered a good source of type II collagen.[5]

RATING

A+

• BEST FOR: Skin, hair, nails, and joints*
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I and III
• SOURCED FROM: Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine
• FLAVOR: Neutral
• MIXABILITY: Excellent

RATING

A

AT A GLANCE

• BEST FOR: Hair, skin, and nails
• COLLAGEN TYPES: I, II, III, V, X
• SOURCED FROM: Bovine, marine, chicken, and eggshell membrane
• FLAVOR: Neutral
• MIXABILITY: Good

AT A GLANCE

RATING

C

AT A GLANCE

• BEST FOR: Gut and joints
• COLLAGEN TYPES: Unspecified
• SOURCED FROM: Grass-fed bovine 
• FLAVOR: Neutral (slightly salty)
• MIXABILITY: Good

RATING

B

AT A GLANCE

• BEST FOR: Skin, joints, and digestion 
• COLLAGEN TYPES: Types I & III 
• SOURCED FROM: Grass-fed bovine 
• FLAVOR: Neutral (unflavored) 
• MIXABILITY: Good

RATING

C

AT A GLANCE

• BEST FOR: Hair, skin, and nails 
• COLLAGEN TYPES: Types I & III 
• SOURCED FROM: Bovine 
• FLAVOR: Unflavored 
• MIXABILITY: Good

No Sweeteners

No More Than 45 mg Sodium

1.5K+ 5 star reviews

About 30%

of the protein in your body is collagen. [1]

Approx. 

70-80%

of the dry weight of your skin is collagen. [2]

We lose 1% per year

after age 40. [2,3]

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Third-Party Tested

Subscription Service

Note: We try to update product information as often as we can. Please visit product websites for more information.

*Based on the individual experience of the Smarter Choices team and on a number of user reviews of the product. 

Type III

Usually associated with type I collagen, these two types make up the two most commonly-found types in our body. Also highly beneficial for supporting skin health, type III collagen makes up a large part of our skin and organs. Bovine collagen is also a source of type III collagen.[3]

Type V

This type of collagen helps to support muscles and bones and is often sourced from eggshell membrane. [6]

Type X

Like type V collagen, type X is also typically sourced from eggshell membrane - a rich source of not only collagen but essential amino acids. This type of collagen can help support bones. [6]

TIP: Did you know that a high-quality collagen powder can make a great addition to your morning coffee or tea? 

Premium collagen powders have no flavor and dissolve easily into any drink - hot or cold. This makes it easy to add to your daily wellness routine which means you're likely to see positive changes!

[1] Ricard-Blum, Sylvie. “The collagen family.” Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in biology vol. 3,1 a004978. 1 Jan. 2011, doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a004978

[2] Oikarinen, A. “Aging of the skin connective tissue: how to measure the biochemical and mechanical properties of aging dermis.” Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine vol. 10,2 (1994): 47-52.

[3] León-López, Arely et al. “Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 24,22 4031. 7 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3390/molecules24224031

[4] Bolke, Liane et al. “A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study.” Nutrients vol. 11,10 2494. 17 Oct. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11102494

[5] Silvipriya, K., et al. “Collagen: Animal Sources and Biomedical Application.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2015, pp. 123–127., https://doi.org/10.7324/japs.2015.50322. 

[6] Zhao, Yu-Hong, and Yu-Jie Chi. “Characterization of Collagen from Eggshell Membrane.” Biotechnology(Faisalabad), vol. 8, no. 2, 2009, pp. 254–258., https://doi.org/10.3923/biotech.2009.254.258. 

[7] Borumand, Maryam, and Sara Sibilla. “Daily consumption of the collagen supplement Pure Gold Collagen® reduces visible signs of aging.” Clinical interventions in aging vol. 9 1747-58. 13 Oct. 2014, doi:10.2147/CIA.S65939

To see a list of our other references, please click here. 

CITATIONS

DISCLAIMER: This scientific research is for informational purposes only. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Primal Harvest provides this information as a service but does not endorse it. This information should not be read to recommend or endorse any specific products.

Note: Individual results may vary. The benefits stated are based on personal experiences and subjective feedback and may vary from person to person.

• Collagen That Hasn’t Been ‘Hydrolyzed’: Collagen that is hydrolyzed has already been ‘broken’ down for maximum absorption and digestibility. Hydrolyzed collagen is also labeled as collagen peptides so be sure to look out for either term on the package.
• Unwanted Ingredients: You want to ensure you’re getting 100% pure, premium, hydrolyzed collagen sources with no unnecessary synthetic fillers or other additional ingredients you may be trying to avoid.
• Collagen Lacking Testing: Always check that a product has been ‘third party lab-tested’ to be certain that the product has been independently tested for potentially harmful ingredients to ensure safety.

• PURITY & QUALITY: Choose only grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine or sustainably-sourced seafood collagen.*
• HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN PEPTIDES: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides mean the amino acids have been broken down for easier digestion and absorption.*
• A COMBINATION OF COLLAGEN TYPES: A popular combination for targeting hair, skin, joint, and nail health.*
• QUANTITY: Check the label for the collagen and protein content. Most quality brands also include the amino acid profile of their collagen supplement. 
• FLAVOR AND MIXABILITY: Some off-the-shelf collagen supplements may taste bad and do not mix well. Try to find a collagen supplement you'll be glad to consume every morning!*