Plus the pros tell us how collagen supplements really work...

Let's talk collagen supplements. Should we be taking a collagen supplement regularly? What exactly do collagen supplements do? And, crucially, will collagen supplements give us glowing skin? Now, more than ever, there's big business in collagen supplements, but do they really work? Renowned nutritionist Rose Ferguson thinks so: 'I take collagen, but I think of it more as an all-around body helper as opposed to a skin-specific supplement. I like powder forms of collagen best. If you're a bone broth person, which is a great source of collagen, then great, but when it comes to taking collagen every day I prefer to use a powder supplement. I like Puori Pure Collagen Peptides, £29.99. I do believe with things like collagen, be careful where you get it from and get a really good quality one. There are vegan forms of collagen out there too.'Jennifer Aniston Adds Collagen To Her Coffee

©Getty, Matthias Oberholzer Unsplash
One person who certainly believes in the benefits of collagen supplements so much she takes it daily is Jennifer Aniston, who even puts collagen powder in her morning coffee. Considering that she has access to some of the best skincare specialists, nutritionists and collagen supplements in the business we're more than prepared to give her opinion a hefty dose of credence. You only have to look at her glowing skin right? Oh and newsflash! THE collagen powder that Jennifer Aniston uses is available to buy in Boots and on Cult Beauty! A-list supplements just got accessible. So are collagen supplements her secret? RELATED: These Are The 8 Supplements Nutritionist Rose Ferguson Recommends Taking Daily
Jennifer Aniston recently announced that she had been appointed Chief Creative Officer of Vital Proteins, a supplements brand that Jen has been using for years. The brand themselves revealed on their own Instagram post that celebrated their new A-list team member that Jennifer Aniston drinks their renowned collagen supplement in her coffee. They wrote: 'The secret's out! We're so excited to have Jen on board as our hew Chief Creative Officer.Here's How Jennifer Aniston Uses Collagen Supplements
Jennifer Aniston drinks collagen in her coffee!
'She's been using our collagen in her coffee and smoothies for years and it's about time she let the world know that wellness starts from within.' Let's recap that quickly. Jennifer Aniston drinks collagen in her coffee! We like coffee, we want Jennifer Aniston levels of glow, should we be doing the same? It's time we asked the experts.
Award winning celebrity facialist and aesthetician and founder of D.Thomas Clinic Debbie Thomas says that the emphasis, when it comes to collagen supplements, should be on the quality of the collagen supplement you choose.The Skin Expert's Take
The quality of the collagen supplement does make a big difference
'There is evidence that taking collagen supplements helps you to make more of your own collagen, however the quality of the collagen supplement does make a big difference. Collagen supplements were first used to aid muscular and skeletal recovery from injury or surgery. Some people while taking these supplements noticed other side effects like joints becoming more supple, reduction of vaginal dryness and some skin improvements. So skin supplements containIng collagen has become a 'thing' for a reason.' RELATED: How To Fake A Winter Glow At Home According To Vogue Williams
Other celebrities like Rochelle Humes and Millie Mackintosh are into their collagen supplements. Both have extolled the virtues of the Vitality X+ Collagen Powder, from founder, Jessica Sepel, a qualified nutritionist. Any scientific claims made in Australia must be backed by thorough evidence, and Sepel's products meet all the quotas.
SHOP: The Best Collagen Supplements
The Best Collagen Supplements Grazia

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This is the stuff Jennifer Aniston adds to her coffees and smoothies so it's got to be good right? She's so enthusastic about the brand that she's become their Chief Creative Officer. The powder is available at Boots and also at Cult Beauty.

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Founded by Jessica Sepel, a qualified nutritionist, JSHealth's offering is sustainably sourced marine collagen powder, derived from 100% pure cod skin. Tried & Tested by Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Natalie Corner: 'I've seen Rochelle Humes pop a 6g scoop of this in her green tea in the mornings and rave about how good it is. So I wanted to see what the fuss was about. Firstly I followed a great tip from Rochelle who adds it to her green tea in the morning, it adds a fruity kick. I tried it in cold water but it didn't seem to dissolve as easily and left a powdery aftertaste, however I'd say it works best in porridge. After using it for almost a month I noticed less shedding of my hair and brightness when it came to my skin. I'm going to continue taking it.'

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CREDIT: Absolute Collagen
Absolute Collagen's Original Lemon Marine Collagen Oral Supplement comes in handy sachets that are great for either adding to your morning beverage - we recommend smoothies or stirring into a hot lemon and water - or drinking on the go. They offer 8000mg of hydrolysed collagen - small enough to filter through to your blood stream and reach the parts of your body that need it - per dose.

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Beauty Pie have put a lot of research into their collagen supplement. In a randomized, double-blind placebo, controlled and ex vivo study, a 10g daily dose (one scoop) increased skin moisture by 28% after 8 weeks and decreased collagen fragmentation by 31% after 12 weeks. That's a lot to take in but think plumper, dewier skin in the long run. It's pricey for non-members but if you're a Beauty Pie member already it's a no-brainer. Oh and the flavour? A hint of strawberry.

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This is a vegan elixir that works to plump your skin whilst nourishing your gut too. With the delicious taste of wild berries, what's not to love?!

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The Nue Co is changing up our approach to health with supplements that are easy to integrate into your health regime and have noticeable results. Like collagen, lipids begin to deplete as we age. The Nue Co.'s Skin Hydrator is excellent for prolonging your skin's equilibrium. This blend of hydrating hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and hydrolysed bovine collagen works to repair the skin's defences by locking in the moisture that helps strengthen its collagen framework - leaving you with radiant, glowing skin.

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Bare Biology is considered one of the best producers of fish oil around, and it is stringent about avoiding any non-essential ingredients. In short, you know you're getting the good stuff.

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'I take collagen but I think of it more as an all-round body helper as opposed to a skin-specific supplement. I like powder forms of collagen best. If you're a bone broth person, which is a great source of collagen, then great but when it comes to taking collagen every day I prefer to use a powder supplement. I like Puori Pure Collagen Peptides, £29.99. I do believe with things like collagen, be careful where you get it from get a really good quality one. There are vegan forms of collagen out there too.' - Rose Ferguson, Nutritionist.

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The Dose & Co premium collagen collection is a supplement range founded by naturopath and nutritionist Libby Matthews and supported by business partner and spokesperson Khloé Kardashian. This unflavoured collagen powder is free from gluten, dairy, soy, preservatives, and artificial colours. Blend into coffees, tea, shakes, smoothies and other recipes.

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As part of her collaboration with the London Aesthetics Company Gemma Collins has launched her very own collagen supplement. These marine collagen capsules are gluten and dairy-free. Take one capsule before bed each night with water.
According to Debbie you may well notice a number of differences in your skin after taking a good quality collagen supplement regularly and over a prolonged period of time: 'Skin should feel stronger, plumper and be less sensitive as it becomes stronger.' 'Taking a high dose (10000 mg) quality hydrolysed collagen daily supplement is the recommended amount' clarifies Debbie. 'I do take a high dose liposomal vitamin C daily,' says Debbie, 'this has also been proven to improve collagen production by up to 40% when taking 3000mg per day for 3 months. Additionally vitamin D is key to support skin immunity while glutathione protects cells and supports healthy skin behaviour.' So that's collagen, vitamin C, vitamin D and glutathione - got it! READ MORE: This Is The Modern Way To Copy Princess Diana's Iconic Hairstyle If you thought Jen An's foray into collagen supplements was an isolated celebrity occurrence, then think again. A celebrity collagen supplement circuit is in the process of being formed. The new kid on the collagen block? None other than Khloé Kardashian. Meet collagen supplement brand Dose & Co. Founded by Libby Matthews (a qualified naturopath and nutritionist) Dose & Co boasts Khloé Kardashian as a business partner and spokesperson and it has now launched into the UK with much fanfare. The range includes seven premium collagen and protein powders, all of which are now available at Holland & Barrett. Of her latest step into supplements Khloé Kardashian says: 'Health and wellness is something I’m hugely passionate about, and I wanted to find a way I could help inform people about the benefits of collagen, without confusion or accessibility challenges. I was looking into brands and speaking to experts around the world when I discovered Dose & Co. Once I tried the brand, I quickly saw how easily it fit into my overall routine and lifestyle. I was so impressed by the ingredients, the results, and the vision, I knew I wanted to get more involved,' says Partner and Global Spokesperson, Khloé Kardashian.What Are The Benefits Of Taking A Collagen Supplement?
How Much Collagen Do We Take In Supplement Form To See A Difference In Our Skin?
What Other Supplements Should We Consider For Better Skin?
Celebrity Collagen Supplements Are A 'Thing'
Also new to the supplement game? Gemma Collins
Also new to the supplement game? Gemma Collins, who has launched her own collagen supplement GemmaCollagen x The London Aesthetics Company Marine Collagen Capsules, £20. Take one capsule with water before bed each night to enjoy the benefits of a collagen supplement.
Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us
FAQs
How do I know which collagen supplement is best? ›
Look for collagen that comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised animals or wild-caught fish. The collagen should not have any additional fillers or additives. Overall, when choosing a collagen supplement opt for a brand that is transparent about their processes and sourcing.
What type of collagen is most effective? ›Type I or type 1 collagen is the strongest type of collagen. If you're looking for a collagen for supporting skin health, type 1 is a top choice since it's literally a building block of the skin.
Is there a downside to taking collagen? ›Collagen supplements may lead to mild side effects such as bloating, heartburn, and feelings of fullness. If you have food allergies, make sure to purchase supplements that don't contain your allergens.
What is the number 1 collagen in the world? ›1. Vital Proteins Original Collagen Peptide. Vital Proteins is the leader in the collagen powder market, and rightfully so with such a diverse product line. But their OG—Original Collagen Peptides—is their bestseller for a reason: one scoop gives you 18 grams collagen as well as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.
What type of collagen is best for aging skin? ›Type I collagen is usually considered best for the skin. It is the most abundant type of collagen in the body. It maintains healthy bones, skin, hair and nails.
What type of collagen is closest to human? ›Over 90% of the collagen in the human body is type I collagen. However, as of 2011, 28 types of human collagen have been identified, described, and divided into several groups according to the structure they form. All of the types contain at least one triple helix.
Which collagen does Jennifer Aniston use? ›Vital Proteins® Original Collagen Peptides
Jen Says: "My go-to collagen routine is adding Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides ($27; shop now) in my morning cup of coffee or smoothie – so easy to use."
Studies have shown that daily collagen supplements can help make your bones denser, slowing the aging process that makes them brittle and helping your body to produce new bone. Oral collagen supplements have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity for older people. They might also help to lessen wrinkles.
Is it harmful to take collagen every day? ›Collagen is generally considered to be a safe and nontoxic daily supplement for healthy individuals, and most people won't experience adverse side effects.
What happens when you stop taking collagen? ›When you stop taking collagen supplements, there won't be any side effects (thankfully). But, the most important thing to note is that any health benefits you may have experienced while taking the supplement will eventually fade away. The reason being, your body naturally synthesizes collagen.
What is the best strength of collagen to take? ›
It is well known that anything below 1g (1000mg) of collagen, in a daily dose, just may not be that effective or indeed it will take much longer to see results when using it. While the highest strengths tend to be around 10g (10,000mg) to 15g (15,000mg) per daily dose and results tend to appear much quicker.
How much collagen Should a 50 year old woman take? ›The recommended supplement intake of hydrolyzed collagen is 10g a day. The recommended intake of undenatured type II collagen is 40mg a day.
Is collagen really worth taking? ›Human studies are lacking but some randomized controlled trials have found that collagen supplements improve skin elasticity. [3,4] Other trials have found that the supplements can improve joint mobility and decrease joint pain such as with osteoarthritis or in athletes.
What type of collagen actually works? ›Type 1 collagen “is the most abundant in our bodies and works to make up our bones, tendons, and ligaments,” Cole says. Type 2 collagen “is important for joint health as it makes up cartilage and helps give it elasticity and strength for optimal joint movement.”
Is collagen good for 70 years old? ›Studies have shown that supplementing with collagen peptides — broken down collagen that's easier for your body to absorb — may be beneficial for older people and promote skin and bone health during aging.
Which collagen makes you look younger? ›A further 2021 meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials concluded that ingestion of hydrolyzed collagen for 3 months is effective at reducing skin ageing, as it reduces wrinkles and improves skin elasticity and hydration (4).
Can collagen reverse signs of aging? ›Current research reveals that collagen use could result in a reduction of wrinkles, rejuvenation of skin, and reversal of skin aging [16], which may improve skin hydration and elasticity [17].
Which collagen type is best for joints? ›Cartilage is primarily made up of type II collagen, a tough variety made from animal cartilage which gives cartilage the strength to support joints. Therefore, type II collagen is the type recommended to help with joint issues.
Which is better fish collagen or bovine collagen? ›Fish (marine) collagen has superior bioavailability.
Fish collagen is absorbed up to 1.5 times more efficiently into the body which means it has superior bioavailability over bovine or porcine types. This is due to its smaller particle size compared to other types of collagen.
The best collagen for joints is type 2 collagen. Although collagen type 2 is found in lesser amounts in the human body than type 1 collagen, it's the type of collagen that primarily helps to build connective tissues and cartilage.
What collagen does the Kardashians take? ›
Kourtney says she typically starts her day with a cup of Collagen Vibes, a Poosh x Vital Proteins collaboration. "I do it on an empty stomach for maximum benefits and kick-start my protein intake for the day (it has nine grams of protein in it).
Can I drink coffee with collagen? ›Generally, collagen protein can be safely added to hot coffee, as brewing temperatures are usually below the point at which collagen proteins break down. It can also be added to buttered or bulletproof coffee, though it may not provide additional benefits.
What collagen does Halle Berry use? ›WATCH: Halle Berry reveals her body-toning secrets
After Halle dazzled on the red carpet of the Opening of the Academy Museum gala in Los Angeles last year, her makeup artist Jorge Monroy shared a photo of her wearing KNESKO Skin's 'Nanogold Repair Collagen Face Mask' to prep her skin before the fête.
Yes, you can take collagen and vitamin D together. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is essential for bone health. Collagen also supports bone health by strengthening the connective tissues around your joints.
How do I know collagen is working? ›After daily collagen supplementation for a few weeks, you will typically start to notice a few things: hair growth, skin hydration and skin moisture, improvement in joint health and skin health, lessening of fine lines, and other possible anti-aging improvements.
Is it OK to take collagen long term? ›Collagen peptides have been safely used in doses up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 months. Side effects are rare.
Can collagen cause weight gain? ›Taking a collagen supplement will not cause you to gain weight. In fact, it can help support you on your weight loss journey along with proper diet and exercise. Collagen is beneficial to your bones, muscles, hair, skin, and nails. It also helps to improve your heart health.
How long does it take for collagen to work? ›Many of the studies available suggest that you'd be able to noticeably see improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and density anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks of regular collagen supplementation.
What are the symptoms of lack of collagen? ›Collagen as You Get Older
You can't measure exactly how much you have, but when it drops you may have symptoms such as joint pain or stiff tendons or ligaments. Your muscles may weaken. You could also have papery skin. Taking collagen supplements may help ease these symptoms.
It balances blood pressure
Some research suggests that glycine, one of the primary amino acids in collagen can promote heart health by reducing blood pressure and protect against arterial damage. Collagen may also boost levels of nitric oxide, a compound that enhances blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
What I noticed after taking collagen? ›
My skin feels stronger and I see less notable wrinkle lines on my forehead and under my eyes. The joints in my knees feel stronger and I feel much better in my overall health." “Wholy Dose [collagen peptides supplements] brightened my complexion, made my skin texture even, and shrunk the appearance of my pores.
What is a good amount of collagen to take daily? ›Studies recommend that adults consume between 2.5 to 15 grams of collagen per day to enjoy its health benefits. You can consume collagen powder by mixing it into smoothies, shakes, baked goods, or even your coffee or tea.
Can collagen reverse sagging skin? ›Are collagen supplements a good option for tightening loose skin? A: Collagen supplements aren't the best option if you want to improve the appearance of your skin. That's mainly because there's no evidence-based science to prove they work ― or that they're safe.
Is 60 too late to start taking collagen? ›The short answer is - you can start taking collagen supplements as early as you like. Whether you are starting to notice subtle, early signs of aging or want to counter more visible signs of aging, people of all ages can benefit from taking additional collagen.
Is 65 too late to start taking collagen? ›Once seniors reach the age of 65-70, collagen production starts to decline at about 30% per year. But, it's never too late for collagen!
Is it worth taking collagen after 60? ›It Can Help to Protect Against Bone Loss
Bones are mostly made of collagen, so when our body ages and loses collagen, bone mass and bone strength suffer. Adding in a collagen supplement, along with other bone strengthening exercises and supplements, can help to prevent bone breakage.
There are no official guidelines as to how much collagen should be taken per day. Generally, for improved skin and hair health, 2.5-10 grams of collagen peptides can be taken orally for 8-12 weeks daily. For arthritis, 10 grams of collagen peptides can be taken daily in 1-2 divided doses for about 5 months.
Is it better to eat or drink collagen? ›"Because our body breaks down collagen into amino acids and then assembles them into proteins, taking supplemental collagen probably isn't any better than eating the foods rich in collagen," says Brissette.
Who should not take collagen protein? ›Patients with a history of having calcium oxalate kidney stones shouldn't take too many collagen peptide supplements. It's best to slow down and start with about 5 to 6 grams per day, though it's still best to consult their doctors. Collagen peptides contain an amino acid called hydroxyproline.
Does it matter what type of collagen I take? ›In other words, the collagen peptides specifically trigger collagen production in joint tissues. So, unless you are consuming Type II undenatured or Matrix collagen specifically for joints, then the type(s) of collagen you ingest won't matter.
Which types of collagen do I need? ›
Type I collagen is used for strong hair, skin, nails and bones. Type III is used for the same! While Type II Collagen is less prevalent within our bodies, it still offers great benefit to the aging body by promoting joint and cartilage health!
How long does it take to notice a difference when using collagen? ›Many of the studies available suggest that you'd be able to noticeably see improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and density anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks of regular collagen supplementation.
Which collagen is closest to human collagen? ›Bovine collagen is easily absorbed by the body, as it's the closest form of collagen to that found in humans.
Which collagen is best for skin and joints? ›Type 1 collagen “is the most abundant in our bodies and works to make up our bones, tendons, and ligaments,” Cole says. Type 2 collagen “is important for joint health as it makes up cartilage and helps give it elasticity and strength for optimal joint movement.”
What happens to your body when you take collagen? ›Studies have shown that daily collagen supplements can help make your bones denser, slowing the aging process that makes them brittle and helping your body to produce new bone. Oral collagen supplements have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity for older people. They might also help to lessen wrinkles.
How much collagen Should a 60 year old woman take? ›Research has also shown that supplementing with collagen may improve skin health in older adults. A review of 11 studies found that taking 2.5–10 grams of collagen per day orally for up to 6 months improved hydration, elasticity, and collagen content of the skin ( 6 ).
Should I take collagen everyday? ›Collagen is generally considered to be a safe and nontoxic daily supplement for healthy individuals, and most people won't experience adverse side effects.
Can you take all types of collagen at the same time? ›Our bodies need all three types of collagen. So, if you are thinking to add different types of collagen supplements to your daily routine, you can definitely go for it. But we strongly suggest you to not to exceed the recommended dosage mentioned on the packaging labels of these supplements.
Which is better for you bovine or marine collagen? ›The Verdict. Both bovine and marine collagen provide the same benefits. Both are great for skin, hair, gut, and bone health. However, bovine is slightly cheaper and might be the better choice for those with intestinal problems.