What is the highest rated collagen supplement?

November 18, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2022 survey by Consumer Reports, 19% of women have used a collagen supplement, highlighting its widespread popularity. Sifting through the options to determine what is the highest rated collagen supplement requires evaluating brands based on criteria like sourcing, efficacy, and independent testing.

Quick Summary

This guide compares leading collagen supplement brands based on source, absorption, and third-party testing. It helps you choose the best product for your specific goals, whether for skin, hair, or joint health, detailing the pros and cons of powders, capsules, and different collagen types.

Key Points

Vital Proteins is a top contender: Frequently cited as the best overall collagen supplement for its high quality, popularity, and ease of use.
Prioritize hydrolyzed collagen: Opt for supplements containing hydrolyzed collagen peptides for better absorption and efficacy.
Match source to your goal: Choose bovine collagen (Types I, III) for skin and bone support, or marine collagen (Type I) for enhanced skin benefits. Type II from chicken is best for joints.
Look for third-party certifications: Due to limited regulation, verify product safety and quality by checking for seals from organizations like NSF or USP.
Consider form and dosage: Powders offer dosing flexibility, while capsules provide convenience; ensure the dosage aligns with clinical recommendations (2.5-15 grams daily).
Multi-collagen options offer broad support: Brands like Ancient Nutrition provide a wider spectrum of collagen types for holistic benefits targeting skin, hair, and joints.

Factors for Determining Top Collagen Ratings

Determining the single highest rated collagen supplement is difficult because "best" is subjective and depends on individual health goals. However, several objective factors can help narrow down the field. Consumers and experts alike typically rate products based on bioavailability, source, and independent verification.

Bioavailability: The Power of Hydrolyzed Collagen

For a supplement to be effective, your body must be able to absorb it efficiently. Most highly-rated collagen supplements are 'hydrolyzed,' meaning the collagen has been broken down into smaller peptides. This process significantly improves digestion and absorption, allowing the amino acids to be used more readily by the body. In contrast, non-hydrolyzed or less processed collagen might not be absorbed as effectively.

Sourcing: Bovine, Marine, or Multi-source?

The source of collagen is a key determinant in its rating and application. The most common sources include:

Bovine Collagen: Derived from cows, this source is rich in Types I and III collagen, which are excellent for skin elasticity, bone strength, and reducing wrinkles. It's widely available and generally more affordable.
Marine Collagen: Sourced from fish, marine collagen is primarily Type I and often praised for its superior absorption, making it highly effective for skin, hair, and nails. It is a popular choice for those avoiding bovine products, though it tends to be more expensive.
Multi-source Collagen: These supplements combine collagen from several sources, such as bovine, chicken, and marine, to provide a broader range of collagen types. They often include Type II for joint and cartilage support, alongside Type I and III. Ancient Nutrition's Multi-Collagen is a well-known example.

Independent Verification and Safety

With the supplement industry largely unregulated by the FDA, relying on third-party certifications is crucial for safety and quality. Highly rated supplements often feature seals from organizations like NSF International, UL, or the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP). These certifications confirm that the product contains what it claims to, is free from banned substances, and has been tested for heavy metal contamination, which can be a concern with animal-derived products.

Top Contenders for Highest Rated Collagen Supplements

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

Often lauded as the best overall, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides consistently appears at the top of best-seller lists and expert reviews. Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine, it is rich in Type I and III collagen. It's unflavored, dissolves easily in both hot and cold liquids, and often includes hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C for added benefits.

Orgain Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides

Another strong contender, Orgain is praised for its high-quality, grass-fed source and its single-ingredient formula. Each serving delivers a significant dose of Type I and III collagen peptides. It is noted for being nearly flavorless and having excellent mixability, making it a versatile option for adding to coffee, smoothies, or food.

Ancient Nutrition Multi-Collagen Protein

For those seeking a broader spectrum of benefits, Ancient Nutrition's multi-collagen protein is highly rated. It sources collagen from four different sources (bovine, eggshell, fish, and chicken bone broth) to provide Types I, II, III, V, and X. This comprehensive blend, combined with probiotics and Vitamin C, targets skin, hair, nails, and joint health.

Comparison of Leading Collagen Supplements


Brand	Source	Collagen Types	Key Add-ins	Certifications
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides	Bovine (grass-fed)	I, III	Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C	None specified, but well-regarded
Sports Research Collagen Peptides	Bovine (grass-fed)	I, III	None	IGEN-certified
Ancient Nutrition Multi-Collagen	Bovine, Fish, Eggshell, Chicken	I, II, III, V, X	Probiotics, Vitamin C	Third-party tested
Orgain Hydrolyzed Collagen	Bovine (grass-fed)	I, III	None	Not specified, but praised for quality
Procaps Marine Collagen	Marine (Tilapia)	I	None	Independently verified
Momentous Collagen Peptides	Bovine	I, III, Fortigel	Vitamin C	NSF Certified for Sport

How to Choose the Right Collagen for You

Consider Your Primary Goal

For skin, hair, and nails: Focus on supplements high in Type I and Type III collagen. Both bovine and marine sources are effective, though marine is often considered superior for skin health.
For joint pain and cartilage: Look for supplements containing Type II collagen, which is the primary component of cartilage. This is especially important for athletes or those with osteoarthritis.
For overall health: A multi-collagen supplement provides a wider range of benefits, supporting multiple areas from joints and bones to skin and gut health.

Determine Your Preferred Form

Powder: The most popular form, offering flexibility in dosage and easy mixing into beverages or food.
Capsules/Tablets: Convenient for travel or those who prefer pre-measured doses, but may require a higher number of pills to achieve an effective dose.
Gummies/Liquid: A flavorful and easy-to-take option, but often contains less collagen per serving and may include added sugars.

Conclusion

While a single definitive winner for the highest rated collagen supplement is elusive, Vital Proteins, Orgain, and Ancient Nutrition are consistently ranked among the top tier. The best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs, whether for specific beauty concerns, joint support, or a comprehensive wellness approach. Always prioritize products with high bioavailability and third-party certifications for quality and safety. For more information on supplement safety, Consumer Reports highlights safety concerns with supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

For optimal skin health, look for a supplement containing Type I and Type III collagen. Marine collagen, which is rich in Type I, is often cited for its excellent benefits for skin elasticity and hydration.

Some studies suggest that collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity and hydration and reduce joint pain, although the research is still considered preliminary and long-term effects need further study.

Bovine collagen, from cows, primarily contains Types I and III. Marine collagen, from fish, is rich in Type I and is often absorbed more efficiently by the body, though it is typically more expensive.

The primary difference is convenience versus dosage. Powder allows for flexible, often higher dosing, while capsules are convenient but typically contain less collagen per serving.

Look for products that specify they contain hydrolyzed collagen peptides for better absorption. Prioritize supplements with third-party verification, such as NSF or USP seals, to ensure quality and safety.

Collagen supplements are generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild digestive issues. A more significant concern is potential heavy metal contamination, which can be mitigated by choosing independently tested products.

Results can vary depending on the individual and their specific health goals. For skin elasticity, some studies have shown improvements within eight weeks, while joint health benefits may also require consistent use over several weeks or months.