The Best Collagen Products for Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails

[Photo by Kamila Maciejewska]

Collagen is a protein in the human body that is one of the major building blocks of skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. It can also be found in other body parts such as corneas, blood vessels, and teeth—and works by providing structure to the body by acting as a type of ‘glue’ that holds everything together.

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There are many different types of collagen that play various roles in the body, including Type I (made of densely packed fibers and provides structure to bones, tendons, and more); Type II (made of loosely packed fibers and found in elastic cartilage to cushion joints); Type III (supports muscles, arteries, and organs); and Type IV (found in the layers of skin and helps with filtration).

As we age, our bodies being to produce less collagen, which causes our skin to be less firm and supple, among other things. Aside from age, others factors like a poor diet, smoking, and excessive sun exposure can destroy the collagen in our bodies. To help your body increase collagen production, it’s important to eat a healthy, balanced diet and take supplements to ensure that you’re getting all of the nutrients you need.

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Collagen supplements and products have continued to grow in popularity and can offer many positive benefits, including the reduction of visible lines and wrinkles, improving muscle function, reducing joint pain, encouraging hair and nail growth, and much more. From powder supplements and bars to skin and hair care, read on to discover and shop our guide to the best collagen products for healthy hair, skin, and nails:

Algenist GENIUS Liquid Collagen ($115)

This vegan collagen treatment serum helps to restore skin's natural bounce and resilience while diminishing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The lightweight serum includes patented alguronic acid )naturally sourced from algae and show to visibly minimize lines and wrinkles); exclusive active vegan collagen to strengthen and condition skin; and micro-algae oil, which hydrates, nurtures, and restores skin’s radiance.

Alo Stackable Wellness System Glowing Strong Collagen Complex Shot ($30/10-pack)

Leading fashion and lifestyle brand Alo Yoga has expanded its beauty and wellness offerings with the debut of The Alo Stackable Wellness System, an antioxidants-powered range of highly absorbable, revolutionary formulas that deliver health and wellness-boosting benefits. The Glowing Strong Collagen Complex Shot features radiance-giving collagen that delivers an optimized, bioavailable cocktail of beauty-boosting super ingredients for firm, smooth skin; long, strong hair and nails; and healthy joints. Can conveniently be consumed on-the-go, making it easy to take with you anywhere.

AURA Inner Beauty Collagen ‘Better Together’ Collagen Elixir Bundle ($110)

Aura Collagen is an elixir formulated with essential amino acids to help in collagen formation for rejuvenated skin, hair, nails, and joint support. This bundle includes the Coconut Marine Collagen and Wild-berry Hibiscus Marine Collagen, which are liquid elixirs that can be enjoyed in water, coconut water, almond milk, smoothies, coffee, or paired with other supplements. Featuring essences of coconut and wild-berry hibiscus, the infused flavor profiles are a gentle balance of subtle and sweet.

Beauty Bar Chocolate Calm Collagen Bar ($10.50)

This sugar-free and dairy-free chocolate bar features 50mg of hemp (per bar) and 150mg of pearl collagen (per square) to help support a calm mind, relieve stress, and alleviate inflammation. The antioxidants in the 83% fair trade dark chocolate work to heal from the inside out. 2% of all sales are donated to support Girls, Inc.

baebody Collagen Hibiscus Vanilla Tea ($30)

This hibiscus and vanilla flavored collagen tea is made with 2,500mg of consciously-sourced collagen peptides per bag for the perfect daily dose. Adding this to your daily ritual will stimulate collagen production for smoother, firmer-looking skin and will do wonders for your skin, hair, nails, and joint strength.  Dermatologist tested and made without parabens, phthalates or sulfates.  Cruelty-free, non-GMO, gluten-free, ideal for all skin types and made in the U.S.

Country Life Maxi-Skin Collagen + C&A Powder ($12.89)

This clinically studied formula includes an innovative collagen and vitamin C and A blend that helps stimulate natural collagen production, as well as improves skin’s appearance and smoothness. It takes a powerful tri-layer approach to skin care, supporting all three layers of skin: epidermis, dermis, and the subcutaneous tissue.

DOCTOR BABOR Lifting Rx Collagen Serum ($155)

This four-week treatment is designed to help improve skin firmness by reducing the look of wrinkles and helping to improve skin elasticity, resulting in a more youthful and lifted appearance. Key ingredients include Tripeptide-1 solution for increased firmness; ECM-Protect, a blend of extracts from passionflower, black currant, and vine leaves, which work to prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers within the extra cellular matrix (ECM) of the skin; and Carnosine (a molecule made up of amino acids) to improve skin tone. Grape seed delivers photo-protective effects.

Epicuren Pro Collagen + Serum Amplifier ($82)

This collagen serum utilizes three different types of peptides at clinical levels, while also including the additional ATP supporting ingredients to increase cellular energy and metabolism, and a rare algae/polysaccharide blend to tighten the skin. It visually amplifies the effects of collagen synthesis to give the skin an immediate youthful, plump appearance, and works long-term to correct and prevent signs of aging.

Further Food Matcha Collagen ($29.99)

This premium blend features the brand’s best-selling collagen, organic matcha, and stamina-boosting cordyceps mushroom to promote all-day energy without the jitters! 27mg of caffeine and L-Theanine, naturally occuring from matcha, boosts productivity, improves mental clarity and focus, while 8,000 mg of premium collagen peptides supports healthy skin, hair and nails, plus joint and gut health. You’ll love the delicious matcha cultivated by a 10th level Japanese tea master!

Garden of Flavor Aloe Collagen Energy Elixir ($59/6-pack)

This 25-calorie, high-protein cold-pressed energy elixir hydrates from the inside out with aloe, while collagen supports muscles, skin, blood, bones, cartilage, and ligaments. Includes 10 grams of protein and 1 billion CFUs in probiotic cultures, and marine collagen from wild-caught fish.

HUM Nutrition Collagen Love Skin Firming Supplement ($40)

This collagen supplement features hyaluronic acid to support skin elasticity and firmness. The unique skin protection blend of vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and types I and III collagen protect skin while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and promoting skin elasticity. Take three capsules daily for best results.

Hush & Hush TimeCapsule ($65)

These skin supplements offer youth-restoring benefits that are typically found in topical products and shield skin against common aging factors such as the sun, pollution, blue light, and environmental aggressors. The unique blend of proven botanical agents, along with Clean Clinical Vitamins™ and minerals, work synergistically to reverse the common signs of aging and defend against future damage for skin. The Time Reverse Collagen Complex includes marine collagen, panax ginseng root powder, an amino acid blend (leucine, isoleucine, valine), hyaluronic acid, and more.

Indigo Marine Collagen Pure ($39)

This collagen powder is made from non-GMO, wild-caught white fish and is highly digestible, absorbed by the body and easily soluble in cold or hot liquids. It has 10g of Type 1 marine collagen, which is free of additives and fillers. Since their source of fish are caught from deep water schools of white fish in their natural habitats, their collagen is protected from direct exposure to harmful antibiotics and hormones.

ISOPURE Collagen ($19.99)

SOPURE® Collagen combines 10 grams of hydrolyzed collagen peptides (types I& III) and 40 mg of UC-II® undenatured type II collagen ingredient. Available in four flavors: Mango Lime, Raspberry Lemonade, Summer Citrus Peach, and Unflavored. It’s a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of collagen:  

• Types I & III: Supports healthy skin & the vitality of nails.

• Undenatured Type II: Supports healthy joints and cartilage.

KAILO Look Well (Skin & Immunity) Collagen Supplement ($99)

This expertly crafted, all-in-one superblend targets cellular renewal, immunity, and digestion. It supports overall wellness and vitality through a carefully selected blend of well-researched vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In addition to bovine collagen peptides, it contains:

• Supergreens blend: Packed with vitamins and minerals which can help to improve energy levels, support immunity, and improve gut health.

• Vitamin B complex: Helps to support the nervous system, improve mental health, and reduce fatigue.

• Antioxidant blend: Reduces damage to DNA and helps reduce inflammation.

• Zinc: Improves immune function and enhances skin health.

Kalumi BEAUTYfood Collagen Bar Variety Pack ($19.99)

Kalumi BEAUTYfood bars are formulated with high-quality marine collagen and food-derived vitamins and antioxidants for optimal collagen absorption and retention. Each bar contains 12 grams of sustainable, wild-caught marine collagen made with sweet potato and cocoa butter for antioxidants. The variety pack includes three bars. The bars are sweetened only with yacon syrup, a low-GI healthier sugar alternative, and available in three delicious flavors:

• Lemon Love: lemony fresh with a hint of rosemary

• Sweetie Pie: sweet potato pie with a touch of coconut

• Cocoa Kiss: a rich, chocolate brownie with crunch cacao nibs

Klerely Collagen Peptides Powder Supplement ($29.99)

This pharma-grade, bioavailable unflavored collagen is sourced and manufactured in the USA. Featuring Collagen Types I & III, the collagen peptide powder easily mixes and dissolves in hot and cold beverages. This product helps support hair, skin, bones, gut, and nails.

Lemon & Co. Collagen Elixir ($39)

This unique lemon-infused collagen elixir drink tastes delicious and offers all the health benefits of collagen and vitamin C. Each case contains 14 sachets of wild caught marine collagen (5g per serving), which can easily be mixed into your water or any drink. Ingredients include organic lemon juice, wild caught marine collagen, organic flavors and extracts, organic monk fruit, and vitamin C. With regular consumption, you’ll enjoy a long list of benefits including beautiful hair and nails, skin elasticity, longevity, improved mood, weight loss, gut health, heart health, and flexibility and joint health as a result!

Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion ($78)

This anti-aging treatment targets the appearance of wrinkles and loss of resilience by rapidly visibly re-volumizing skin and infusing skin’s surface with collagen amino acids. This fast-acting formula infuses skin’s surface with collagen amino acids and promotes optimal hydration. Hyaluronic acid and an anti-aging peptide help boosts skin’s resilience and plump dehydrated skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, while winged kelp smooths skin for a more youthful texture. Cellular hydro-lock plumps the look of skin and helps smooth surface fine lines and wrinkles. Rapid Collagen Infusion is recommended as a step-two treatment in any Murad regimen and pairs perfectly with any exfoliating treatment or serum. 

Om Mushrooms Beauty + Packets Superfood in Strawberry Lemonade ($16.99)

Exude radiance and stop aging with an expertly curated mushroom superfood blend powered by Chagas, plus sustainably sourced marine collagen, biotin, and vitamin E to encourage healthy hair, nails, and glowing skin. Boost your water with the revitalizing taste of Strawberry Lemonade. Contains 10 drink sticks.

Pacifica Vegan Collagen Skincare ($15-$24)

The new skincare line uses real collagen proteins produced through a plant-based fermentation process which have demonstrated its equivalence to animal-derived collagens through structural, biochemical, physical, and biological properties. The collection includes:

• Vegan Cream Creamy Gel Cleanser: This sulfate-free gel cleanser gently removes makeup, oil and daily residue while replenishing the skin with hydration.

• Vegan Collagen Hydrating Milk Tonic: This alcohol-free tonic delivers vegan collagen in a refreshing floral water essence that leaves skin with a healthy, dewy and replenished appearance.

• Vegan Collagen Complex Serum: This concentrated, bioactive serum includes a one-of-a-kind blend of vegan collagen, plant-based proteins and hyaluronic acid for a healthier, dewy appearance. 

• Vegan Collagen Every Day Lotion SPF 30: This lightweight, daily lotion with broad spectrum SPF 30 protection is formulated with a mix flower extracts and hyaluronic acid. 

• Vegan Collagen Overnight Recovery Cream:  While your skin is in rest and repair mode, this rich formula with essential lipids and antioxidants, help revive and quench the thirstiest skin. 

• Vegan Collagen Recovery Eye Cream: Packed with skin-loving ingredients, such as vegan collagen, hyaluronic acid, and caffeine, this nourishing eye cream boosts hydration and help support the delicate skin around your eye.

Peter Thomas Roth FIRMx Collagen Moisturizer ($85)

This moisturizer is packed with seven forms of collagen-supporting ingredients to help skin appear firmer, smoother, and more youthful. Ingredients include marine collagen, plant collagen, and hydrolyzed collagen to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and firmness; hydroxyproline, peptides, collagen amino acids, and fatty acids to support natural collagen; and hyaluronic acid complex 5% and squalane, which leave skin feeling hydrated, visibly supple, and plump with moisture.

Physicians Formula 24-Karat Gold Collagen Oil ($16.99)

This advanced, anti-aging complexion-enhancing facial oil deeply moisturizes, nourishes, and rejuvenates skin while restoring a youthful glow. The lightweight formula features 24 karat gold, vegan collagen, marula oil, and glycerin to restore lost elasticity and firmness. Skin is visibly firmer, plumper, and restored with moisture for a more youthful, radiant-looking complexion.

Re:Bio Synbiotics Packets ($49)

These tasty packets of synbiotic powder contain three types of live bacteria, fish-derived collagen peptides, and feature a dessert-like flavor that combines the elegant scent of rose with the sweetness of strawberry. Each packet includes 7 billion probiotics with live bacteria including Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Bifidobacterium lactisall to enhance and improve gut health. The added collagen peptides will help achieve glowing skin from the inside out and support healthier hair and bones as well.

RENPURE Biotin + Collagen Thickening Leave-In Spray ($9.34)

This plant-based biotin and collagen leave-in conditioner increases strength and thickness for beautiful, shiny hair. Includes B-complex vitamins, amino acids, and proteins—and delivers volume and movable texture that stays with you all day.

Reserveage Nutrition Collagen Candy Sour Apple Collagen Treat ($24.99)

Reserveage Nutrition Collagen Candy™ is a special treat made for those with a sweet tooth. You can get your daily dose of collagen peptides in this nostalgic stickpack. It’s ok to share, there are 20 stickpacks per box! Reserveage Nutrition™ delivers revitalizing skin nutrients in a sweet and sour treat. This delicious treat contains a patented collagen clinically shown to help reduce volume of eye wrinkles by 20% in just 8 weeks – with results starting in 4 weeks.

Sanitas Collagen + Elastin Face Cream ($115 ) and Eye Cream ($90)

The newest additions to Sanitas’ Collagen + Elastin line, this breakthrough collagen moisturizer and collagen eye cream offer proven results in 28 days. The face cream helps rid skin of worn-out cells and provides a mega dose of hydration. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, it supports skin’s natural resilience and leaves it firmer, smoother, brighter, and less red. The eye cream reduces the appearance of wrinkles and crow’s feet, visibly firming the under-eye and upper lid area while lessening the look of dark circles and puffiness.

SeneGence VitaSense Beauty + Collagen Powder ($75)

Beauty + Collagen is a daily supplement powder that promotes improved appearance of skin, hair, nail, and overall health, from the inside out. Made with responsibly sourced Type 1 Marine Collagen, Beauty + Collagen supports multi-dimensional benefits for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Type 1 Marine Collagen is the collagen type that most closely matches the collagen the body naturally produces. Additional vitamins and nutrients in BEAUTYPLEX+™, like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Biotin, Zinc, and Copper, help maximize collagen synthesis and absorption, and help improve skin firmness and elasticity, while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Svete Wellness Beauty Fusion Supplement ($59)

Nourish beauty from within with this delicious and convenient formula that features 11 grams of hydrolyzed multi-collagen per serving, along with 11 clinically-proven beauty and wellness ingredients that are proven to support radiant skin, healthy hair, and strong nails. These include hyaluronic acid, CoQ10, probiotics, grapeseed and horsetail extract, biotin, and vitamins B6, C, D, E, and zinc.

Available in two tasty flavors (Berry, Chocolate), the formulas are flavored with freeze-dried fruit or cacao and coconut powder that retains all of the nutrients your body needs on a daily basis. To serve, simply mix a scoop into 12 to 16 oz of water. Can be enjoyed in yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, coffee, and other recipes.

The Beauty Chef COLLAGEN Inner Beauty Boost ($50)

This organic, bio-fermented probiotic concentrate is designed to support the skin’s production of collagen and promote a radiant, plump-looking complexion. Specifically formulated to address skin firming and fine lines, free radical damage, and aid in skin maintenance, COLLAGEN contains a blend of organic maqui berry, acai, papaya, blueberry, goji-berry, and pomegranate powders with grape seed extract, zinc, and vitamin C. Boosting natural collagen formation from the inside, the potent formula is also rich in antioxidants to help combat cellular damage and support healthy skin, hair, and nail growth. Utilizing The Beauty Chef’s exclusive bio-fermentation process, COLLAGEN contains more than six billion naturally occurring prebiotics and probiotics per 15 milliliter serving to balance the digestive tract and boost skin vitality.

Tone It Up Vitamin C + Collagen ($28.99)

Featuring the highest quality, sustainable marine collagen and vitamin C powder, this mixture combines with water and tasted like an orange cream-flavored popsicle. The vitamin C and collagen, tropical coconut, turmeric, and acerola cherry deliver healthy fats and taste great when blended with the brand’s other plant-based protein powders. The vitamin C aids in collagen synthesis to help your body absorb the collagen powder with vitamin C more effectively so it can get to work fast.

Truly Vegan Collagen Bundle ($138)

This vegan line of anti-aging skincare products includes a serum, face mask, facial cleanser, and body cream. The Bundle consists of:

• Vegan Collagen Facial Cleanser: An anti-aging face wash made with high end anti aging ingredients to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while giving your skin a thorough cleanse.

• Vegan Collagen Serum: An anti-aging serum made with vegan collagen to help visibly reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles for plumper, youthful-looking skin.

• Vegan Collagen Body Cream: A lightweight anti-aging body cream made with vegan collagen to help visibly reduce the signs of aging while giving your skin a boost of hydration. 

• Vegan Collagen Face Mask: An anti-aging face mask formulated with vegan collagen to help plump and firm skin. 

Valmont Regenerating Mask Treatment ($470)

Using the latest medical data and Swiss medical innovations, this 30-minute collagen mask offers four visible and complementary rejuvenating effects, including smoothed wrinkles and fine lines, intense hydration, restored tissues, and soothed skin. It provides a hydrating effect that visibly transforms the skin so wrinkles and fine lines are smoothed and radiance is stimulated. Ingredients include natural collagen, a hydrating agent, and collagen amino acids (in the post-treatment vial to seal the collagen’s effects). Ideal for all skin types.

Wild Elements Collagen Booster Supplements ($49)

Like a sunrise for your skin, this daily skin-health supplement brightens and hydrates from the inside out, delivering fast, clinically-proven results and an unstoppable glow. It’s infused with vitamin C, ultra-nourishing tremella mushroom, and fermented hyaluronic acid to propel essential hydration internally to the body and externally to enhance skin. Experience firmer, more luminous skin, boosted collagen production, a fortified skin barrier, and immune defense support all in two capsules a day. Clinically tested, vegan, and comes in recyclable packaging. 

Zurvita Zundora Antioxidant Collagen ($78.95)

This “beauty from within” antioxidant/collagen-boosting gel is the first-of-its-kind. The unique and proprietary nutrient complex provides a full clinically tested level, 2.5 grams of Verisol, hydrolyzed collagen peptides (type I and III). That specific dose has been clinically proven to support healthier-looking skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles and increasing elasticity along with supporting healthier-looking hair and stronger nails. Features a tasty blackberry flavor that can be enjoyed on its own or combines with your favorite juice or yogurt.

[Images courtesy of brands]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk