General information only. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body, accounting for approximately 30% of total protein content. It is a major structural component of skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Hair and nails are primarily composed of keratin rather than collagen.
Collagen production and collagen quality change gradually with age. Hydrolysed collagen peptide supplements are widely used with the aim of supporting collagen-related structures in the body. Research in this area has primarily investigated specific hydrolysed collagen peptide formulations at defined doses — findings may not apply to all collagen powder products available on the market.
What Some Studies Have Found: Skin
Collagen is a major structural component of the dermis. Some studies involving specific hydrolysed collagen peptide preparations have reported outcomes including improvements in measures of skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle appearance. [1, 2]
Study limitations to be aware of:
- Many studies are short in duration (4–12 weeks) and involve small numbers of participants.
- A number of trials have been funded by collagen ingredient manufacturers, which may introduce bias.
- Results observed with one specific collagen peptide ingredient — such as VERISOL® — may not generalise to other formulations or products.
- Individual results vary.
Collagen and Hair: What the Evidence Currently Shows
Collagen provides amino acids — including proline and glycine — that the body uses in various biological processes. Some researchers have proposed that these amino acids may be relevant to hair follicle biology, given that keratin (the primary structural protein of hair) is also amino-acid-dependent.
Direct clinical evidence that oral collagen supplementation improves hair growth or reduces hair loss in humans is currently limited. Available studies are generally small, short-term, or have not been independently replicated. This remains an active area of research.
Collagen and Nails: What Some Studies Have Found
A small number of studies have examined specific hydrolysed collagen peptide supplementation and nail health outcomes. One 24-week study reported improvements in nail growth rate and a reduction in breakage frequency among participants. [3]
Study limitations: The study involved a small sample size, used a specific patented collagen peptide ingredient, and was conducted by researchers with industry affiliations. Results may not apply to other collagen supplement formulations. Individual results vary.
Types of Collagen: Marine vs Bovine
When choosing a collagen supplement, you will typically encounter two main sources:
- Marine collagen — Derived from fish. Marine collagen predominantly provides Type I collagen peptides.
- Bovine (beef) collagen — Derived from cattle. Bovine collagen commonly provides Types I and III collagen.
Absorption and effectiveness depend on the specific formulation, dose, and degree of hydrolysis. The right choice will depend on your individual needs, dietary preferences, and the specific product.
Collagen and Vitamin C
Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation in the body. [4] Some collagen supplements include added vitamin C. Always check the individual product label for full ingredient and formulation details.
Using Collagen Powder
Serving sizes and formulations vary between products. Follow the directions for use on the individual product label, or as directed by your healthcare professional. Most collagen powders can be mixed into liquids such as water, smoothies, or warm beverages.
Collagen Options at AS Beauty & Health
Here are several collagen options available at AS Beauty & Health. Always read the individual product label to check whether it suits your needs.
Melrose FutureLab Total Body Collagen Powder 525g
A hydrolysed collagen powder. According to the manufacturer, it is designed to support skin, hair, nail, joint, bone, ligament, and tendon health. Serving: 17.5 g daily, mixed into water or a beverage of your choice, or as directed by your health professional.
Nutra Organics Collagen Beauty — Skin Hair Nails Gut 450g Unflavoured
A bovine collagen powder containing VERISOL® collagen peptides and added Vitamin C. Unflavoured, odourless, and dissolves in hot or cold liquid. Serving: 12 g (1 tablespoon) daily.
Nutra Organics Marine Collagen Beauty 225g
A marine collagen powder containing Naticol® marine collagen peptides, certified sustainable by Friend of the Sea®. Unflavoured and odourless. Serving: 6 g (2 heaped teaspoons) daily.
Nutra Organics Beauty Sleep Collagen Hot Chocolate 200g
A warm beverage blend containing collagen peptides, Vitamin C, alkalised cocoa, and magnesium. Serving: 10 g (1 heaped tablespoon) in 200 mL of hot milk.
You can browse all available collagen products in our store using the collagen search results page.
Choosing the Right Collagen for You
The best collagen powder depends on your dietary preferences, preferred format and the individual product formulation. Marine collagen may suit those looking for a fish-derived Type I collagen, while bovine collagen commonly provides Types I and III. Whichever option you choose, follow the product directions and use it consistently as part of a balanced diet.
Explore our available collagen products to compare ingredients, serving sizes and formats.
References
- Proksch E, et al. (2014). Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides has beneficial effects on human skin physiology: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27(1), 47–55. https://doi.org/10.1159/000351376
Limitations: Small sample (n=69); ingredient-specific (VERISOL®); industry-affiliated authorship. - Bolke L, et al. (2019). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients, 11(10), 2494. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102494
Limitations: 12-week duration; specific formulation; partially industry-funded. - Hexsel D, et al. (2017). Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 16(4), 520–526. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12393
Limitations: Small sample (n=25); VERISOL® specific; industry-affiliated research. - European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2009). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to vitamin C and contribution to normal collagen formation. EFSA Journal, 7(9), 1226. https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2009.1226
Independent regulatory authority opinion.
Important information: This article provides general information only and is not medical advice. Results vary between individuals. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Consult a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.