If you're taking collagen for the anti-aging benefits, look for type I, or a combo of type I and type III. Both are found in the skin and support skin health (think: improved skin hydration, firmness and texture, as well as fewer wrinkles, per a review study in 2019 in the journal Molecules).
This means marine collagen is the most consumer-friendly type across the world. As marine collagen is a type I collagen, it's most suitable for promoting healthy skin and bones, and the best collagen powder for anti-ageing. Collagen from bovine and porcine sources is type II collagen – which is found in the cartilage.
Type I or type 1 collagen is the strongest type of collagen. If you're looking for a collagen for supporting skin health, type 1 is a top choice since it's literally a building block of the skin.
A further 2021 meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials concluded that ingestion of hydrolyzed collagen for 3 months is effective at reducing skin ageing, as it reduces wrinkles and improves skin elasticity and hydration (4).
For skin health, you should look toward types 1 and 3, and for joint health, go for type 2 collagen.
Type 1 collagen is the most abundant in the human body. You can find type 1 collagen in your eyes, skin, tendons, bone, and teeth. Even though it's great for rebuilding your muscles, eyes, bones, and spine, it's famous for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin elasticity and hydration.
In other words, the collagen peptides specifically trigger collagen production in joint tissues. So, unless you are consuming Type II undenatured or Matrix collagen specifically for joints, then the type(s) of collagen you ingest won't matter.
Current research reveals that collagen use could result in a reduction of wrinkles, rejuvenation of skin, and reversal of skin aging [16], which may improve skin hydration and elasticity [17].
Are collagen supplements a good option for tightening loose skin? A: Collagen supplements aren't the best option if you want to improve the appearance of your skin. That's mainly because there's no evidence-based science to prove they work ― or that they're safe.
Vital Proteins® Original Collagen Peptides
Jen Says: "My go-to collagen routine is adding Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides ($27; shop now) in my morning cup of coffee or smoothie – so easy to use."
Collagen peptides are made by breaking animal collagen down through hydrolysis. So, while collagen is a complete protein, collagen peptides are fragments of that protein. Whole collagen is difficult for the body to digest or absorb, while collagen peptides are significantly more accessible for the body.
One of the biggest reasons people take a collagen supplement is to help improve their skin. Whether it be for wrinkles, glowing skin, or better skin elasticity, marine collagen is the best type to take for skin beautification and strengthening.
Fish, or “marine”, collagen contains 90% Type I and 10% Type III collagen. These are the two main types of collagen in the skin. Therefore, they are the best types of collagen for eliminating wrinkles and sagging skin.
Retinol Strength Vs Collagen Strength
There is no doubt about it that retinol is significantly stronger than collagen. This is because retinol penetrates down deep into your skin, tricking your body into thinking it's younger than it is.
The main reason people take collagen protein is to replenish their body's collagen stores and thereby improve their joint, skin, and hair health and improve muscle growth and recovery. Unfortunately, collagen protein is little more than a low-quality food that likely doesn't offer any special benefits.
Initial results from collagen restoration treatments are usually visible immediately. However, new collagen growth can take anywhere from four to 12 weeks to complete.
Bottom line: Most people have 1 treatment and feel some tightening right away. It takes time for your body to make collagen, so you'll see the best results in about 6 months. Some people benefit from having more than 1 treatment. Results can last 2 to 3 years with the right skin care.
Are collagen supplements safe? Collagen supplements are most likely safe, yes, but if it's results you're after, Dr. Zeichner recommends topical treatments — as opposed to ingesting collagen — to really see a difference.
Superstars like Drew Barrymore, Lady Gaga, and the Kardashian sisters swear by these nutrient-rich beauty drinks. Among the many brands, Taut® Premium Collagen Drink – rated as the “Bentley” of collagen drinks – has been featured in Cosmopolitan, New Beauty, and other leading magazines.
As such, no matter your goal for using collagen, it will take at least 8 weeks to experience noticeable results ( 6 ). Most studies use a minimum of 8 weeks to assess collagen's effects on skin health and joint pain relief, but other studies use longer periods, such as 12 months, for bone health ( 9 , 14 , 22 ).
If you're taking collagen for the anti-aging benefits, look for type I, or a combo of type I and type III. Both are found in the skin and support skin health (think: improved skin hydration, firmness and texture, as well as fewer wrinkles, per a review study in 2019 in the journal Molecules).
Our best overall pick is the Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein Powder, which has hydrolyzed collagen that comes from grass-fed food sources to promote healthy skin and joints.
Marine collagen is better for the human body than bovine collagen for various reasons, but chief among these is its unique structure. Marine collagen tends to contain more amino acids and glycine than bovine varieties, which are essential for skin health.