Collagen supplement FAQs, answered:

“Collagen production depletes as we age, leading to weaker hair and nails as well as the occurrence of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Hula. However, one of the biggest misconceptions about collagen is that it’s only meant for people above a certain age.

A reminder that the efficacy of your collagen supplement depends on “the type of collagen, the amount, and your individual health needs,” reminds Dr Emma Cunningham, GP, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics. But it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially for children and pregnant or nursing women.

Generally, collagen supplements are safe and well-tolerated. But minor side effects can include digestive issues like mild diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, gas, or a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. In very rare cases, allergic reactions are possible — as well as a higher chance of developing kidney stones if you’re particularly prone to them. As always, be sure to consult a doctor beforehand if you’re after more specialist medical guidance.

While budgets and preferences differ, having tested dozens of different collagen supplements first-hand, the GLAMOUR team’s top pick has to be the Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides powder, and with good reason. True to its name, it’s formulated from collagen peptides, which are essentially soluble pieces of protein derived from bovine collagen or marine collagen. They’re also bioavailable, which makes them easier to digest and absorb by your body. The best part? Since they’re unflavoured, you can easily enjoy them in whichever way suits you best – be it in a coffee, mixed in with your soup or blended into your smoothies. Our testers noted that there wasn’t any artificial aftertaste and that the powder didn’t mess with the consistency of the food or drink that they were consuming it with. As a bonus, it also happens to be Jennifer Aniston’s favourite. You’re welcome.

When reviewing it for five weeks, our Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett noted that her skin started looking more radiant, plump and healthy-looking, plus her hair seemed slightly shinier too. It’s also worth mentioning that since she was also taking probiotics at the time, it was trickier to determine whether the improvement to her gut health could be attributed to either one of the supplements. One thing to note is that it’s not plant-based since it contains traces of milk, making it unsuitable for vegans.

“Collagen supplements usually contain hydrolysed collagen peptides, which are small pieces of collagen,” shares Cunningham. “When these peptides are ingested, they are absorbed into the bloodstream and sent through the body. These peptides act as signals, stimulating the body’s cells to produce more collagen.”

While research is still limited, there is more than enough evidence that backs the benefits of collagen supplements. According to a study published in the International Journal of Dermatology, which had over 1,000 participants, those who used collagen supplements reported an ‘increased firmness, suppleness, and moisture content of the skin, with wrinkles appearing less noticeable.’

“Collagen supplements are available as powder, collagen tablets, pills and liquid. Choosing between collagen supplement types is a matter of personal choice. There is no significant difference between them regarding efficacy,” Benar adds.

Instead, the form you choose should be based on what works for your lifestyle. “Hydrolysed collagen is considered one of the best forms as it’s broken down into smaller peptides, which are easier for your body to absorb,” shares Hula. “Most collagen supplements have undergone the process of hydrolysis, which means the manufacturer has broken the collagen down into peptides so the body can absorb and use it.”

“Noticing skin results from collagen supplements can vary depending on individual factors,” says a medical writer at Dermatica, Dr Zoë Lees. “Most people start to notice a positive effect after about six weeks. Early improvements can include improved skin moisture and a smoother texture.

“More pronounced benefits, including reduced appearance of wrinkles, may start to appear with a longer duration of supplementation,” she continues. “Consistency in supplementation is key to achieving and maintaining results.”

“There’s no specific age you need to be to start taking collagen supplements,, but since your natural collagen production starts to decrease in your 20s so this is a great time to start,” says Lees.

Humphreys explains that if you’re not after the youth-boosting effect, you can start taking collagen supplements for other reasons from your late teens: “Some people take it for scarring, gut health, joint recovery, so it’s all down to the reason you take it.”