What are collagen shots made from?

November 20, 2025 •

4 min read

Collagen constitutes up to one-third of the total protein in the human body, providing structural support to skin, bones, and tissues. As interest in supplementation grows, many people ask what are collagen shots made from, which typically contain hydrolyzed peptides sourced from animals or plant-based alternatives.

Quick Summary

Collagen shots are primarily made from hydrolyzed animal-derived peptides, most commonly from bovine or marine sources, though vegan options utilize plant-derived amino acids. They often feature co-ingredients like vitamins and hyaluronic acid to support synthesis and absorption.

Key Points

Diverse Sources: Collagen shots are primarily made from hydrolyzed animal collagen, with the most common sources being bovine (cow) and marine (fish).
Vegan Alternatives: Vegan options don't contain animal collagen but include plant-based ingredients like fermented amino acids and vitamins to support the body's natural collagen production.
Hydrolyzed for Absorption: The collagen is broken down through a process called hydrolysis into smaller peptides, increasing its bioavailability and making it easier for the body to absorb.
Key Additives: Shots are often enhanced with ingredients like Vitamin C (essential for synthesis), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), and zinc (for skin and hair health).
Different Benefits: Bovine collagen is rich in types I and III for skin and bones, while marine collagen (mostly type I) is often chosen for its smaller peptides and superior skin benefits.
Convenient Format: The liquid 'shot' format offers a highly convenient and efficient way to deliver a concentrated dose of bioavailable collagen and supportive nutrients.

The Primary Sources of Collagen

Collagen shots get their main protein from various sources, which determines the type of collagen and its properties. The primary sources include bovine, marine, and, for those on a plant-based diet, specially formulated vegan options.

Bovine Collagen: Sourced from Cattle

Bovine collagen is one of the most widely used types in supplements, derived from cow hides and cartilage. It is rich in Type I and Type III collagen, which are abundant in human skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. This makes it a popular choice for supplements targeting skin health, joint pain, and overall bone strength. When processed for collagen shots, the bovine collagen is hydrolyzed to break it into smaller peptides for better absorption.

Marine Collagen: Sourced from Fish

Extracted from the skin and scales of fish, marine collagen is praised for its high bioavailability, meaning the body absorbs and utilizes it more efficiently. Marine collagen is predominantly Type I, making it particularly effective for skin elasticity, hydration, and reducing wrinkles. It is a suitable option for pescatarians and those who avoid red meat, but it does have a slightly more distinct taste than bovine collagen. Sustainably sourced marine collagen comes from fish farmed for human consumption, ensuring a more ethical process.

Vegan Alternatives: Plant-Based Boosters

True collagen is an animal product, but vegan-friendly shots are formulated to support the body's natural collagen production. These products do not contain actual collagen but provide the necessary amino acids (like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline) and essential co-factors needed for synthesis. Vegan shots often derive these amino acids from fermented plant starches or molasses. They are supplemented with collagen-boosting nutrients such as Vitamin C, silica from bamboo, and hyaluronic acid. While the effects may be less direct or take longer to become noticeable compared to animal-sourced collagen, they align with vegan dietary ethics.

The Manufacturing Process: Hydrolysis for Absorption

Regardless of the source, the collagen in effective shots is almost always hydrolyzed. The natural collagen molecule is too large for the human body to absorb intact. Hydrolysis is a process that uses heat and enzymes to break the collagen down into smaller protein fragments called peptides. These peptides have a lower molecular weight, allowing them to pass through the intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream more easily, improving their bioavailability and effectiveness.

Key Additional Ingredients in Collagen Shots

Beyond the primary collagen source, most shots are fortified with a blend of complementary ingredients to enhance flavor, absorption, and overall benefits. Common additives include:

Vitamin C: An essential nutrient for proper collagen synthesis. It works synergistically with collagen peptides to help the body produce its own collagen.
Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its moisture-binding properties, this ingredient is often included to help hydrate and plump the skin.
Zinc and Biotin: Minerals that play a role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for joint health.
Natural Flavorings and Sweeteners: To make the shots more palatable, manufacturers use fruit juice concentrates (like apple or berry) or natural sweeteners like stevia.

Comparing Collagen Shot Sources

To help you decide which type of collagen shot might be right for you, here is a comparison of the main sources.


Feature	Bovine Collagen	Marine Collagen	Vegan Alternatives
Source	Cow hides and cartilage	Fish skin and scales	Plant starches or molasses
Primary Types	Type I & Type III	Primarily Type I	Stimulates Type I & III production
Bioavailability	High, especially when hydrolyzed	Very high due to smaller peptides	Indirect, relies on internal synthesis
Common Benefits	Skin elasticity, joint health, bone strength	Skin health, hydration, fine line reduction	Supports natural synthesis; vegan-friendly
Taste	Generally neutral taste	Can have a slightly fishy taste	Nearly tasteless, often flavored
Dietary Suitability	Not suitable for vegans/pescatarians	Not suitable for vegans	Suitable for vegans

Conclusion

In conclusion, what are collagen shots made from is a question with a multi-faceted answer, depending on the specific product. The primary component is hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are small, easily absorbed protein fragments typically sourced from bovine or marine animals. For those with dietary restrictions, vegan-friendly shots offer a blend of plant-derived amino acids and vitamins to stimulate the body's natural collagen production. The efficacy of any collagen shot is heavily dependent on the quality of its source, the effectiveness of its hydrolysis, and the inclusion of supportive co-ingredients like Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Choosing the right shot ultimately comes down to your personal health goals, dietary needs, and ethical considerations. Reading the label carefully will help you select a product that aligns with your preferences and provides the most benefits for your body. For more information on the science of collagen and absorption, refer to studies and resources from authoritative medical sites like Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the most common sources for collagen shots are animal-based, derived from bovine (cow) or marine (fish) byproducts. However, vegan options are available that use plant-derived amino acids and vitamins to support natural collagen synthesis.

Bovine collagen typically contains Type I and III collagen and is sourced from cow hides, while marine collagen is predominantly Type I collagen from fish skin and scales. Marine collagen also has a higher bioavailability due to its smaller molecular size.

No, true collagen only comes from animals. Vegan 'collagen' products supply a blend of amino acids and nutrients, such as Vitamin C and silica, that the body uses to produce its own collagen naturally.

Vitamin C is a critical co-factor for the body's natural collagen synthesis. Its inclusion in collagen shots helps the body more effectively utilize the provided collagen peptides to build new collagen.

The process is called hydrolysis, which breaks down large, native collagen molecules into smaller, more easily digestible protein fragments known as peptides. This enhances absorption and efficacy.

The 'best' type depends on individual needs and dietary preferences. Marine collagen may be preferred for skin health due to higher Type I content and bioavailability, while bovine can support both skin and joints. Vegan options are suitable for those avoiding animal products.

No, the dosage varies by brand and formula. Some brands, particularly those targeting athletes or specific conditions, offer higher doses per serving. Always check the product label for the collagen content and recommended usage.

Yes, you can get collagen from whole foods like bone broth, chicken, and fish. You can also eat foods rich in the amino acids and vitamins needed for synthesis, such as leafy greens, citrus fruits, and eggs.