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7 Best Collagen Supplements for Flawless, Ageless Skin
Written By Natalie Wilkinson
About three years ago (I remember the day like yesterday), my sister and I went to a coffee shop. As we walked in the sun, she glanced at my hair and said, “Where did those gray hairs come from?” I laughed it off, but inside, it got me thinking. When did these signs of aging start showing up? And why do they suddenly pop up out of nowhere?
Aging has its perks, but some changes—like wrinkles and dull skin—aren't a thrill for anyone
The first signs of aging can feel like a punch in the gut. We wake up one morning, glance in the mirror, and there they are—gray hairs peeking through, wrinkles around our eyes, and skin that just doesn’t glow anymore. I know what you’re thinking: “But will a collagen supplement really slow aging?”
The truth is that you choose how you look as you age. Types I, II, III, V, and X collagens boost skin firmness, strengthen hair and nails, improve joint flexibility, and support tissue structure. Ultimately, replenishing collagen will slow down aging. Those pesky wrinkles will soften, your complexion will brighten, and your skin’s texture will improve. We voted the CogniTune Collagen Supplement best overall out of seven supplements. Prefer a shake to capsules? Check out our runner-up below!
7 Best Collagen Supplements of 2025
CogniTune Collagen Supplement
Best Overall
When I started taking a collagen supplement, I didn’t know what to expect. But a few weeks later, when I looked in the mirror, I realized that looking five to 10 years younger isn’t just a dream in today’s world—it’s a reality. The CogniTune Collagen Supplement has a 4.5-star rating and uses five types of hydrolyzed collagen to boost your skin’s elasticity and firmness. Imagine those wrinkles softening, your skin regaining its glow, and your nails and hair growing stronger and healthier. In essence, this supplement will turn back the clock on your skin!
Moreover, the ingredients don’t just work wonders on the outside; with type II collagen from chicken bone broth and eggshell membrane, the capsules also help keep your joints flexible and strong. A happy customer shared the following review: “I’ve been taking [CogniTune] for a few months now and I can say that it actually works. I can see AND feel a difference, not only in my hair and skin but in my joints. They used to pop and ache all the time but it’s virtually gone now. I highly recommend it.” —satisfied customer
Live Conscious Collagen Supplement
Runner-Up
The Live Conscious Collagen Supplement holds its own as a strong runner-up. Both this pick and the best overall offer blends of five types of collagen (types I, II, III, V, and X). However, there are some key differences worth noting. Our runner-up provides 1,300 mg of collagen per serving and uses hydrolyzed collagen from grass-fed bovine, chicken sternum, and eggshell membrane.
On the other hand, our best overall delivers a higher dose with 2,000 mg of collagen per serving. And goes a step further by including hyaluronic acid and horsetail extract. But, and it’s a big but, the runner-up brand gives you variety. Don’t like capsules? No problem! How about a rich chocolate drink? Or maybe you prefer a refreshing Peach Mango flavor?
Here’s a closer look at the Live Conscious Peach Mango Collagen Peptides if you opt for the drink over the capsules:
Golden Glow Peach Mango Smoothie
Ultimately, with our runner-up, the choice is yours: easy-to-take capsules or a yummy drink.
Purity Products Collagen Supplement
Best Vegan Collagen
When it comes to collagen supplements, not everyone wants to go the animal-derived route. That’s where the Purity Products Vegan Collagen Supplement, our third pick, comes in. Unlike the best overall and runner-up, these capsules take a different approach. They don’t contain collagen per se but instead focus on ingredients that help your body build its own collagen naturally.
Moreover, the tablets contain plant-based ingredients such as silica from bamboo and biotin, along with vitamin C, which is crucial for collagen synthesis and helps protect your skin from oxidative stress. These ingredients work together to support your body’s natural collagen production. A happy customer shared the following review: “This product is absolutely amazing. I see much improvement in my hair. The thin sections are filling in. My nails are long and strong again. I recommend Vegan Collagen Builders if you’re losing hair and have brittle nails. Thank you Purity Products.” —Mercy T. Ultimately, with this vegan pick, you will see results quickly and love the newfound glow in your skin.
Dr. Emil Nutrition Collagen Supplement
Best Absorption
Like the best overall, the Dr. Emil Nutrition Collagen Supplement stands out due to the inclusion of BioPerine, a black pepper extract known for enhancing nutrient absorption. This means that even though the collagen content is only 1,000 mg per serving, the presence of BioPerine helps your body better absorb and utilize the nutrients in the supplement. “Do people see results with this brand?” I hear you ask. Most definitely. If numbers could speak, 3,000+ bottles sold this month alone. Plus, 70 percent of customers—roughly 26,998 people—give it a 5-star rating. Price-wise, it’s around $20, similar to the best overall.
Vital Vitamins Collagen Supplement
Most Innovative
The Vital Vitamins Collagen Supplement is a top contender in the collagen market, offering a generous 150-capsule count. With a strong 4.5-star rating from over 45,000 reviews and more than 30,000 bottles sold this month alone, it’s clear that this supplement is a favorite among customers.
Moreover, each serving delivers 1,600 mg of a potent multi-collagen blend, including types I, II, III, V, and X. The blend is sourced from bovine, marine, chicken bone broth, and eggshell membrane. And, lastly, what truly sets this supplement apart is the inclusion of Digeseb, a proprietary blend designed to enhance absorption.
Sanar Naturals Collagen Supplement
Best for Wrinkles
I like the name of the next brand’s collagen. Can you see it on the bottle? It’s called Sanar Naturals Collagen Wrinkle Formula. Because it’s made to target wrinkles, each capsule is packed with type I and III hydrolyzed collagen. Additionally, it includes vitamins C & E and rose hips to support your skin’s health further.
The blend of collagen with vitamin C promotes natural collagen production in your body, while vitamin E and rose hips support skin elasticity and hydration. Ultimately, with a solid 4.5-star rating from over 22,000 reviews, it’s clear that customers see results, whether it’s fewer wrinkles, healthier hair, or stronger nails.
ForestLeaf Collagen Supplement
Best Value
The ForestLeaf Collagen Supplement contains collagen types I, II, and III. What’s more, the formula is fortified with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. With 120 capsules in each bottle, it’s made specifically to hydrate and nourish your skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Compared to the best overall, this pick offers similar benefits with some differences. Both supplements include a mix of collagen types to support various aspects of health. However, CogniTune includes a broader range of collagen types (I, II, III, V, X). It also has added ingredients like horsetail extract for better absorption and skin hydration. This pick, on the other hand, focuses more on anti-aging benefits, with hyaluronic acid playing a key role in skin hydration and elasticity.
Choosing the Best Collagen Supplement: A User's Guide
My Sister is Vegetarian, But She Still Takes a Bovine Supplement—Here’s Why
When my sister, who’s been a vegetarian for years, told me she started taking bovine collagen for women, I was a little surprised. She explained that while she’s committed to her vegetarian lifestyle, her main focus is overall health. Like many of us, she noticed her skin was losing elasticity, and her joints felt stiffer. She did research and discovered that bovine collagen is one of the most effective types for supporting skin elasticity and joint health. “I realized that I needed to prioritize what my body actually needs,” she said.
So, while it might seem surprising at first, my sister’s experience shows that even vegetarians might choose a bovine supplement when it comes to taking care of their health. It’s all about finding what works best for you and being open to supplements that support your well-being.
My Personal Picks
1. CogniTune Collagen Supplement
Best overall collagen supplement for youthful skin and joint support
Image courtesy of CogniTune
Why Choose It?
- Formulated with five types of collagen for full-body benefits
- 2000 mg of collagen per serving
- Happy customer testimonials highlight its effectiveness for skin, hair, and joints
- Solid 4.5 rating out of 5 stars
- 71% of customers give it a 5-star rating
- Voted “best overall” by the Supplement Institute review team
2. Live Conscious Collagen Supplement
Best collagen supplement for those who want to switch between capsules and tasty drink flavors
Image courtesy of Live Conscious
Why Choose It?
- Available in both capsules and delicious drink flavors, offering variety
- Happy customers praise its quality and effectiveness
- Boasts a 4.5-star rating
- 73% of customers give it a 5-star rating
- Voted “runner-up” by the Supplement Institute review team
What You Need to Consider When Choosing a Collagen Supplement
1. Types of Collagen Matter
There are several types of collagen, but the most common in supplements are types I, II, III, V, and X. Each type has its specific benefits, especially when you’re looking for collagen for skin, hair growth, or even sagging skin.
- Type I is the most abundant in our bodies and is essential for skin elasticity and hydration. It’s a top choice for those seeking collagen for sagging skin who want to maintain their youthful appearance.
- Type II primarily supports joint health. If you’re dealing with joint pain or want to maintain mobility as you age, this is the type you need. It’s also a good option if you’re exploring collagen for weight loss, as healthy joints support an active lifestyle.
- Type III works closely with type I and is great for skin, hair, and nail health. This type is particularly effective as collagen for hair growth, helping to strengthen and support healthy hair.
- Types V and X are less common but important for bone health and overall structural support, making them a key part of collagen for women over 50.
The CogniTune Collagen Supplement includes all five types. This makes it an excellent all-around option to cover all your bases with just one product.
2. Check the Ingredients
Collagen isn’t the only thing in your supplement. Many products include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and biotin. These can enhance the benefits of collagen:
- Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture in your skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.
- Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis, meaning it helps your body produce more collagen.
- Biotin supports healthy hair and nails, making it a great addition if you’re focused on beauty benefits.
I, personally, love that CogniTune includes both hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which means you’re not just getting collagen but also the support you need to maximize its effects.
3. Absorption Matters
Not all collagen supplements are created equal when it comes to absorption. CogniTune contains BioPerine (a black pepper extract) to enhance how well your body absorbs the collagen. This can make a huge difference in how quickly you see results.
4. Form and Dosage
Collagen supplements come in various forms—powders, capsules, gummies, and even liquids.
- Capsules are convenient and easy to take on the go, but you may need to swallow several pills to get the full dose.
- Collagen powder can be mixed into your morning coffee or smoothie, making it convenient if you’re in a rush.
- Collagen gummies are tasty but often contain less collagen per serving and sometimes added sugars.
- Liquid collagen offers fast absorption but can be pricier and less portable.
5. Quality and Sourcing
Of course, quality matters. So, look for products that are non-GMO, gluten-free, and sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised animals if it’s bovine collagen. Likewise, marine collagen should be sourced from wild-caught fish. This ensures the best possible collagen without unwanted additives or fillers.
Both the CogniTune Collagen Supplement and the Live Conscious Collagen Supplement meet these quality standards. They’re both non-GMO and free from hormones and antibiotics.
6. Price and Value
Sometimes, paying more for higher-quality collagen can be worth it in the long run, especially if it means better results. Thankfully, all the contenders on our list are affordable.
7. Customer Reviews
I always check what others are saying before making a purchase. Ultimately, are people seeing results? How long did it take? And are there any common complaints?
The CogniTune Collagen Supplement boasts a strong 4.5-star rating from thousands of customers, with many praising its effectiveness for skin and joint health.
10 Ways to Boost the Effectiveness of a Collagen Supplement:
- Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water for better collagen absorption.
- Pair with vitamin C: boost collagen production by taking vitamin C with your supplement.
- Eat balanced: a nutrient-rich diet supports collagen effectiveness.
- Add antioxidants: protect collagen with antioxidant-rich foods like berries.
- Exercise: improve circulation to help collagen work better.
- Get enough sleep: sleep 7-9 hours to boost collagen production.
- Use sunscreen: protect collagen from UV damage by wearing sunscreen.
- Cut sugar: reduce sugar to prevent collagen breakdown.
- Use retinoids: apply retinoids to stimulate collagen in the skin.
- Reduce stress: manage stress to maintain collagen levels.
Collagen Supplement FAQs
Should I take a collagen supplement with the main five collagen types?
Taking a collagen supplement with types I, II, III, V, and X, like the CogniTune supplement, is a smart move because it offers support for your skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones. While some people may benefit from focusing on just one or two types, having all five ensures that all the bases are covered. So, if you want to maximize the benefits of collagen, a supplement like CogniTune is worth considering.
When would you choose the Live Conscious supplement over the CogniTune brand?
You would choose the Live Conscious supplement over CogniTune if you want more variety in how you take your collagen. While CogniTune offers a higher dose of 2,000 mg per serving and includes hyaluronic acid and horsetail extract for added skin and joint benefits, Live Conscious offers both capsules and delicious drinks, like rich chocolate or refreshing Peach Mango. So, if you prefer a tasty drink over swallowing capsules, or if the slightly lower dose of 1,300 mg per serving meets your needs, Live Conscious is an excellent choice. Plus, it’s backed by a strong 4.5-star rating from over 70,000 customers, so you know it’s a reliable choice.
Is there scientific evidence that supports collagen’s effectiveness in helping you look younger?
Yes, scientific evidence shows that collagen supplements can help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. For instance, a study published in the journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology found that women who took a collagen supplement for eight weeks saw a significant improvement in skin elasticity compared to those who took a placebo. However, while the evidence is promising, it's important to note that results can vary depending on the individual, the type of collagen used, and the duration of use.
How quickly does collagen start working, and will others notice that I look younger?
Collagen supplements typically start showing visible results within 4 to 8 weeks. You might begin to notice improvements in your skin’s hydration and elasticity around the 4-week mark, and with continued use, others may also start to see the difference. By 8 weeks, many people report a noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. However, the speed at which others notice changes can vary based on your skin type, the collagen supplement you're using, and your overall skincare routine.
Which collagen supplement contains the highest amount of collagen per serving?
Among the seven collagen supplements on our list, the CogniTune Collagen Supplement contains the highest amount of collagen per serving, with 2,000 mg of collagen. This makes it a potent formula for those looking to maximize their collagen intake.
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