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Product Reviews > Health & Beauty
Sarah Tyler, MSc. RNutr,
Last updated: 05 May, 2025
Author Statement: This analysis was prepared following research into the UK’s top-rated Collagen supplements, examining customer outcomes and clinical evidence.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, responsible for maintaining the structure and elasticity of our connective tissues, including skin, hair, nails, joints, and even our gut lining. Up to 70% of skin, hair, nails and nearly 100% of connective tissues are made from collagen. Essentially, collagen acts like glue, holding our body together.
Collagen levels naturally decrease with age, typically starting from our early-30s. The body’s collagen production slows down over time, decreasing by 1% a year beginning in early adulthood. And according to the American Academy of Dermatology, women lose 30% of their skin’s collagen in the five years following menopause.
Certain lifestyle factors can speed up the level of decline. Collagen production may be affected by:
When collagen breaks down faster than the body takes it in or makes more, it can have detrimental effects. Some of the effects are visible, while others happen beneath the surface. Low collagen is a significant contributor to aging skin. Collagen makes up 70% to 80% of skin tissue and provides skin’s structural integrity. As it decreases, the skin can look wrinkled.
The good news is that supplements can support our body’s collagen production. Research in the last decade has confirmed that collagen supplementation may help counteract some age-related collagen loss. For instance, a recent systematic review of 19 studies (encompassing over 1,000 participants) found that around 12 weeks of oral collagen supplementation significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and dermal collagen density.*
But as with any supplement, it’s important to have all the facts before changing your daily regimen
There are ways to help your body increase collagen production while supporting the collagen your body already has. You can eat foods high in collagen, and you may want to consider taking collagen supplements.
Collagen supplements are a reliable resource to ensure your body gets all the collagen that it needs. You should ideally choose comprehensive collagen supplements with complementary ingredients.
Collagen supplements come in pill, powder or liquid form. Topical creams and lotions may also contain collagen, but the external application is not as effective as ingested collagen supplements.
Collagen is a vital structural protein that maintains skin’s elasticity and firmness. As we age, natural collagen production slows down, causing skin to sag and wrinkles to form. Collagen supplementation helps replenish collagen stores, stimulating cells in the skin to increase the natural production of collagen and elastin—resulting in visibly hydrated, firmer and more youthful skin.
Collagen contains essential amino acids that play a key role in building keratin, the protein responsible for strong, healthy hair and nails. Supplementation provides the body with building blocks necessary to produce more resilient, thicker hair strands and less brittle nails, visibly enhancing their strength, growth rate, and appearance.
Collagen is crucial for the integrity of cartilage, the flexible tissue that cushions your joints. Supplementing with collagen provides the body with amino acids, like glycine and proline, needed to regenerate and maintain cartilage. Clinical studies indicate collagen supplements can help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, significantly improving mobility and comfort, particularly in individuals with osteoarthritis or those with active lifestyles.
Collagen contributes significantly to the structure and integrity of the gastrointestinal lining. Collagen supplementation can strengthen and heal the gut lining. This helps enhance digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and potentially alleviate digestive discomfort.
With numerous forms available—including powders, capsules, and liquids—selecting the right collagen supplement can be a bit overwhelming. Look for products clearly labeled as ‘collagen’ or ‘collagen peptides’ without unnecessary additives or sugars. Prioritise sustainably sourced, non-GMO, and third-party tested options to ensure you’re choosing a high-quality product that truly supports your wellness goals.
A good collagen supplement should fit effortlessly into your daily routine, enhancing your wellness from the inside out.
If you’re a woman in your 30s or beyond looking to try collagen supplementation, it’s important to choose the right type of product for maximum benefits. Not all collagen supplements are created equal. Here are key factors and tips to consider when selecting a collagen supplement
Collagen in supplements can come from various sources, the most common being marine (fish), bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) collagen.
For skin, hair, and nail benefits, marine collagen is a popular choice – it consists primarily of Type I collagen, the most abundant in human skin. Marine collagen has smaller peptide size, which supports quicker absorption. It is also Pescatarian-friendly. High-quality marine collagen is derived from fish and is often considered cleaner and purer.
Opt for brands that emphasise quality sourcing –This can affect purity and reduce the risk of
contaminants. It’s also wise to look for products that are tested by a third party for heavy metals
and impurities. Thankfully, independent testing suggests that most collagen products on the
market are quite clean . Still, to be on the safe side, choose a supplement from a trusted manufacturer with good reviews. Collagen is generally very safe. A pure, well-sourced product will give you the best results.
Many collagen supplements include added nutrients that work in synergy to enhance their benefits, especially for skin and joint health.
One of the most important is Vitamin C, which is essential for the body to produce and repair collagen. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from damage and prevent collagen breakdown. Supplements that include Vitamin C – or are taken alongside a source like orange juice – tend to be more effective.
Vitamin E is another valuable addition. It helps neutralise free radicals, which can damage collagen and accelerate signs of ageing. By protecting collagen from degradation and supporting skin elasticity, Vitamin E contributes to smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is often included to support hydration. Naturally present in the skin and joints, HA holds water and keeps tissues plump. When taken with collagen, it can significantly boost skin moisture, elasticity, and the appearance of fine lines.
Turmeric, is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce the kind of low-grade inflammation that contributes to collagen breakdown, while also supporting joint comfort and mobility – making it an ideal addition for women who want to stay active as they age.
These ingredients don’t just complement collagen – they help your body make the most of it.
Choosing a brand that stands behind its product is essential. Without a guarantee, you risk wasting money on an ineffective supplement. To ensure confidence in your purchase, look for brands that offer a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the product risk-free.
A lack of diversity can make it less effective in restoring gut health, preventing bad bacteria overgrowth, and adapting to changing digestive needs. A multi-strain probiotic offers broader benefits and better resilience for overall well-being.
While pure collagen own its own is good, supplements with no added Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or antioxidants may not be as effective. These nutrients support collagen production and help you get more from your supplement.
Now that we’ve covered collagen’s importance and what to look for in a quality supplement, you may be wondering how to choose which brand or product to buy. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top collagen supplement options for women, comparing their sources, added ingredients, and unique features.
We’ll evaluate how these products stack up in terms of potency, purity, and value – so you can make an informed choice on your journey to healthier skin, hair, nails and joints.
Stay tuned for a side-by-side comparison of leading collagen supplements, and get ready to find the one that best fits your wellness routine.
Nutracene’s Collagen Complex is a multi-action beauty and wellness supplement designed to support healthy skin, hair, nails, joints, and overall vitality. It delivers 1000mg of Marine Collagen per serving, combined with a carefully selected blend of Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Turmeric—all known for their synergistic benefits on skin hydration, elasticity, and protection against oxidative stress.
What makes this formula stand out is its clean and targeted approach. It’s not overloaded with unnecessary ingredients — instead, it’s focused on delivering effective dosages of what actually works. The inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid and Marine Collagen helps improve skin moisture and texture, while Biotin supports stronger nails and hair. On top of that, Vitamin C and E offer powerful antioxidant protection, and Turmeric brings added anti-inflammatory support—a thoughtful addition for those concerned with skin ageing or joint discomfort.
If you’re looking for a daily supplement that goes beyond skin-deep and supports your inner health and outer glow, Nutracene’s Collagen Complex offers a balanced, no-nonsense formula that delivers on all fronts.
The rankings and results presented in our reviews are based solely on our evaluation and the experiences. These opinions are subjective and may not reflect the typical experience for all users. Individual results may vary. Always consult the product’s official website for detailed information, and seek advice from a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen.
Holland & Barrett Marine Collagen
Holland & Barrett’s Marine Collagen with Vitamin C offers a straightforward approach to supporting skin health and collagen production. It contains marine collagen alongside 60mg of vitamin C, which contributes to normal collagen formation.
Users have reported improvements in skin texture and a lack of unpleasant aftertaste, which is a common concern with marine-based supplements. The product’s simplicity and the brand’s reputation for quality make it a reliable choice for those new to collagen supplementation.
Compared to more comprehensive formulas, Holland & Barrett’s offering is relatively basic. It lacks additional supportive ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, biotin, or turmeric, which are known to enhance skin hydration, hair and nail strength, and joint comfort. Additionally, the recommended dosage of three tablets daily may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, Holland & Barrett’s Marine Collagen with Vitamin C is a good contender for those seeking to support their skin health.
The rankings and results presented in our reviews are based solely on our evaluation and the experiences. These opinions are subjective and may not reflect the typical experience for all users. Individual results may vary. Always consult the product’s official website for detailed information, and seek advice from a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen.
Edible Health’s Marine Collagen Powder offers a minimalist approach to collagen supplementation. Made from hydrolysed marine collagen peptides sourced from fish skin, it boasts a clean ingredient profile—free from additives, sugar, dairy, soy, and gluten. This makes it suitable for pescatarians and those following keto or paleo diets. The powder is designed to dissolve easily into both hot and cold beverages, allowing for versatile use in daily routines
It’s good to know that it has high protein content, with at least 90% protein and amino acids.
However, the product’s simplicity is a double-edged sword. It lacks additional supportive ingredients like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, which are often included in other collagen supplements to enhance skin hydration and collagen synthesis. Additionally, many users find mixing collagen into drinks inconvenient or simply prefer the ease of capsules.”
Overall, Edible Health’s Collagen Powder is a good choice for those seeking a pure, no-frills collagen supplement. However, for individuals looking for a more comprehensive formula with added skin and joint health benefits, other options may be more suitable.
The rankings and results presented in our reviews are based solely on our evaluation and the experiences. These opinions are subjective and may not reflect the typical experience for all users. Individual results may vary. Always consult the product’s official website for detailed information, and seek advice from a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen.
Ancient + Brave Collagen Powder
Ancient + Brave’s Collagen Powder is a single-ingredient supplement crafted from hydrolysed marine collagen. Designed to support skin elasticity, joint health, and overall vitality, this collagen powder is neutral in taste and odour, making it easy to incorporate into various beverages or foods.
One of the standout features of this product is its high bioavailability, ensuring efficient absorption and effectiveness. Users have reported noticeable improvements in skin texture, hair strength, and nail growth within a few weeks of consistent use.
It’s worth noting that this collagen powder lacks additional supportive ingredients such as Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, or Biotin, which are often included in other formulations to enhance collagen synthesis and provide broader health benefits. Furthermore, some users may find the powder format less convenient compared to capsules or tablets, especially when on the go.
Overall, although it lacks additional beneficial ingredients, Ancient + Brave’s Wild Collagen Powder is a high-quality, clean supplement ideal for those seeking a straightforward collagen source.
The rankings and results presented in our reviews are based solely on our evaluation and the experiences. These opinions are subjective and may not reflect the typical experience for all users. Individual results may vary. Always consult the product’s official website for detailed information, and seek advice from a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen.
Proto-col’s Collagen Capsules offer a straightforward approach to collagen supplementation. It provides good quality collagen peptides (bovine). The capsules are designed to support skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and promote healthy hair and nails.
Top feature of this product is its high absorption rate, ensuring that the collagen is effectively utilised by the body. The convenience of the capsule form makes it easy to incorporate into daily routines without the need for mixing powders.
At this price point, it understandably doesn’t have any additional ingredients such as Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, or Biotin which various other formulations in the market offer for broader health benefits. Additionally, it is derived from bovine sources, which may not be suitable for those following a pescatarian or vegetarian diet.
Overall, Proto-col’s Pure Collagen Capsules are a reasonable choice for individuals seeking a no-frills, high-potency collagen supplement. Yet, for those looking for a more versatile and comprehensive formula with added nutrients, other options might be more suitable
The rankings and results presented in our reviews are based solely on our evaluation and the experiences. These opinions are subjective and may not reflect the typical experience for all users. Individual results may vary. Always consult the product’s official website for detailed information, and seek advice from a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen.
Amongst the top Collagen supplements we reviewed, Nutracene Collagen Complex stands out as a leader in both quality and potency.
Each serving provides an optimised dose of Collagen, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E & C, and Turmeric.
