What is the best brand of collagen to use?

December 15, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, the global collagen supplement market is expected to grow significantly due to rising consumer awareness of its health benefits. Finding the right brand can be overwhelming, so this guide breaks down what is the best brand of collagen to use based on your specific health goals.

Quick Summary

This article provides a comprehensive overview to help you choose a collagen supplement, examining factors like source, type, and third-party testing. It reviews popular brands, detailing what each offers for skin, joints, or overall wellness, and highlights what makes a brand reputable and effective.

Key Points

Sourcing matters: Choose collagen from high-quality sources like grass-fed bovine, wild-caught marine, or pasture-raised chicken to ensure purity and effectiveness.
Different types serve different purposes: Opt for Type I and III collagen for skin and hair benefits, while Type II is best for targeted joint support.
Look for "hydrolyzed" or "peptides": These terms indicate that the collagen has been broken down into smaller, highly bioavailable molecules for better absorption.
Third-party testing is crucial: Always check for certifications from reputable organizations like NSF or USP to ensure the supplement is free of contaminants and contains accurate dosages.
Additives can be a red flag: Avoid brands that include excessive fillers, artificial sweeteners, or flavors, as these can dilute the product's quality.
Choose based on your goal: Brands like Vital Proteins are excellent for general wellness, while Ancient Nutrition and Gnarly Nutrition offer specialized benefits for gut health and athletes, respectively.

Understanding Collagen: Types, Sources, and Bioavailability

Before diving into specific brands, it's crucial to understand the fundamentals of collagen supplements. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, but production naturally declines with age. Supplements aim to replenish these levels, but their effectiveness can vary based on several factors.

The Importance of Collagen Type

There are at least 28 types of collagen, but most supplements focus on a few key ones:

Type I: The most abundant type, found in skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It’s primarily targeted for skin elasticity and overall bone health.
Type II: Primarily found in cartilage. It is the type most recommended for supporting joint health.
Type III: Found alongside Type I in skin, arteries, and lungs, where it supports the structure of these tissues.
Multi-Collagen: Some brands offer a blend of multiple types, often derived from several sources, to provide comprehensive benefits.

Deciphering the Source

Collagen supplements are derived from different animal sources, which can influence their amino acid profile and types of collagen:

Bovine Collagen (Cow): Provides Type I and III collagen and is often a cost-effective option. Many reputable brands source from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle.
Marine Collagen (Fish): Provides predominantly Type I collagen. It is considered highly bioavailable, meaning it's absorbed more easily by the body due to a smaller particle size, and is popular for skin-related benefits.
Chicken Collagen: Rich in Type II collagen, making it ideal for joint support.

The Role of Bioavailability

For collagen to be effective, it must be absorbed efficiently by the body. This is where the term “hydrolyzed collagen” or “collagen peptides” comes in. This means the collagen has been broken down into smaller, more easily digestible peptides. Reputable brands exclusively use this hydrolyzed form to ensure maximum absorption. Some products, particularly capsules, may contain lower concentrations per serving compared to powders.

Comparison of Top Collagen Brands for 2025

When evaluating what is the best brand of collagen to use, consider the following popular brands and their key features. These brands are frequently cited for their quality, sourcing, and effectiveness.


Feature	Vital Proteins	Ancient Nutrition	Gnarly Nutrition	Codeage Multi Collagen Peptides
Best For	Skin & Nails, General Wellness	Multisource & Gut Health	Athletes (Joints & Recovery)	Comprehensive Multi-Collagen
Collagen Types	Type I & III	Types I, II, III, IV, V, etc.	Type I & III	Types I, II, III, V, X
Source	Grass-fed Bovine	Bovine, Chicken, Fish, Eggshell	Grass-fed Bovine	Bovine, Chicken, Fish, Eggshell
Key Additional Ingredients	Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C (in some versions)	Probiotics, Vitamin C	Vitamin C, Zinc, Copper	None (focuses on collagen types)
Third-Party Tested	Yes (NSF Certified CGMP)	Yes	Yes (NSF Certified Sport)	Yes
Form	Unflavored powder, gummies, etc.	Powder	Powder, sticks	Unflavored powder

How to Choose the Right Brand for You

With many options available, selecting the right brand requires a personalized approach. Here’s a breakdown of what to prioritize based on your needs.

For Skin, Hair, and Nails

If your primary goal is to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and strengthen hair and nails, focus on brands rich in Type I and III collagen. Marine collagen is often highlighted for its superior bioavailability, making brands like Vida Glow or Further Food Marine Collagen strong candidates. For a more widely available option, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is a top choice, known for its mixability and effective formula.

For Joint and Cartilage Support

For those targeting joint pain and cartilage health, the key is Type II collagen. This type is typically sourced from chicken. Look for specialized supplements like NOW BioCell Collagen Hydrolyzed Type II or Healthy Origins UC-II Premium Collagen that focus specifically on this need. Athletes in particular may benefit from brands like Gnarly Nutrition Collagen Pro, which combines Type I and III with joint-supportive nutrients like Vitamin C and zinc.

For Overall Wellness and Gut Health

For comprehensive benefits that cover skin, joints, and gut health, a multi-source collagen product is ideal. Brands like Ancient Nutrition Multi-Collagen Protein provide a wide spectrum of collagen types from several sources, plus added probiotics and Vitamin C for enhanced benefits. This makes it a robust option for general wellness enthusiasts.

Prioritizing Quality and Purity

Regardless of your health goals, always check for third-party certifications. Since the FDA does not regulate supplements before they hit the market, independent testing by organizations like NSF International or U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) ensures the product contains what the label says it does and is free of contaminants. Avoid products with unnecessary fillers, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives.

Conclusion

Determining what is the best brand of collagen to use is ultimately a personal decision based on your health objectives. Popular brands like Vital Proteins offer a great starting point for skin and nail support, while specialized products from NOW and Healthy Origins target specific joint concerns. For those seeking a comprehensive approach, multi-collagen supplements from Ancient Nutrition or Codeage are excellent options. The most important step is to understand your specific needs, prioritize third-party tested brands, and consistently incorporate the supplement into your routine for noticeable results. Consulting a healthcare professional can provide further guidance tailored to your individual needs.

What are the benefits of collagen? - This article from Healthline provides a comprehensive overview of the proven benefits of collagen supplementation, from skin elasticity to joint pain relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marine collagen is typically Type I and is praised for its high bioavailability and benefits for skin, hair, and nails. Bovine collagen contains both Type I and III, making it effective for skin, bones, and connective tissue, and is generally more affordable.

Most users report visible improvements in skin, hair, and nails within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use, though joint benefits can take longer to manifest.

Powder is generally preferred for higher, more effective dosages and better absorption rates. Capsules are more convenient but typically contain lower concentrations, meaning you may need to take more pills to achieve a therapeutic dose.

True collagen is always animal-derived. However, vegan 'collagen boosters' or 'builders' exist, which contain ingredients like Vitamin C, amino acids, and minerals that help your body stimulate its own collagen production.

Yes, high-quality, unflavored collagen peptides should dissolve easily in both hot and cold liquids like coffee, smoothies, or water, as well as be mixed into yogurt or oatmeal.

Yes, most collagen supplements are considered safe for daily use when taken within the recommended dosage. Individuals with allergies to fish, beef, or poultry should choose their source carefully.

Vitamin C is a vital cofactor for collagen synthesis. Including it in a supplement helps maximize the body's ability to produce its own collagen, boosting the product's overall effectiveness.