5 Best Collagen Powders for Better Skin & Hair

Collagen powders abound on the internet and everyone has a different idea of which collagen supplements are the most effective. So here are the best collagen powders WE trust. And no, we don’t care what Jennifer Aniston says, it isn’t Vital Proteins. Collagen is everywhere in many, many forms – protein, peptides, pills, powders, bars, gummies, drinks, broths – and much of it is poor quality collagen. Whether you’re a skeptic who doesn’t believe collagen powder is actually absorbed by the body or a staunch believer, there are certain things that matters when it comes to selecting a collagen powder.

Collagen and collagen peptides both refer to proteins found in the body. However, their fundamental difference lies in their structure and how the body uses them. Collagen in its natural form is comprised of large, complex molecules, which the body has to break down in order to absorb. On the other hand, collagen peptides are smaller chains of amino acids produced by breaking down full-length collagen molecules. They are more easily absorbed by the body and can enter the bloodstream more rapidly. While both provide the same amino acids, collagen peptides are easier for the body to use due to their smaller size and lower molecular weight.

Here’s what matters when it comes to trusting a collagen powder:

How to Choose the Best Collagen Powder

First let’s understand the four different types of collagen that products may contain:

• Type 1 collagen: biggest source of collagen found in the human body (most known for good hair & skin)
• Type 2 collagen: builds cartilage
• Type 3: great for skin health
• Type 4: builds the cells’ basement membrane, & aids with cell survival

Collagen Sourcing

When it comes to choosing the best collagen powder, the source is a critical factor that often gets overlooked. While processing methods and additional ingredients are significant, it’s essential to understand where the collagen originates. The source can impact the quality, purity, and overall efficacy of the collagen powder you choose.

Collagen can be sourced from various animals, including cows, pigs, fish, and chickens. Each source has its unique benefits and considerations.

For example, bovine collagen from cows is known for its high concentration of type I and type III collagen, which plays a crucial role in supporting skin health.

On the other hand, marine collagen from fish contains type I collagen and is highly bioavailable, meaning it is easily absorbed by the body.

Generally speaking, marine collagen tends to be of higher quality than bovine.

When selecting a collagen powder, it’s essential to consider the source’s sustainability and ethical practices. Look for brands that prioritize sourcing collagen from animals raised in humane conditions and fed a natural diet. This commitment to ethical sourcing ensures that you are not only making a choice for your health but also for the well-being of animals and the environment.

Certifications

Certifications and labeling can also provide insight into the source of collagen powder. Look for products that are certified by reputable organizations, such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for fish collagen or the Global Animal Partnership (GAP) for animal collagen sources. These certifications ensure that the collagen powder comes from responsible and sustainable sources.

One important certification to look out for is the NSF International certification. When a collagen powder carries the NSF International seal, it means that the product has undergone rigorous testing and meets strict standards for quality, safety, and transparency. This certification assures consumers that the collagen powder is free from any harmful contaminants or impurities.

Another certification you may come across is the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. This label indicates that the collagen powder has been produced without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For those concerned about the potential health and environmental impacts of GMOs, this certification provides peace of mind.

Additionally, some collagen powders may be labeled as grass-fed or pasture-raised. These labels signify that the collagen source, typically bovine or marine, comes from animals that have been raised in a natural, free-range environment. This distinction may be important for individuals seeking collagen powders that align with their ethical and sustainability values.

It’s also worth noting that certain collagen powders may be certified organic. This means that the ingredients used to produce the collagen have been grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. Organic certification ensures that the collagen powder you choose is derived from natural, uncontaminated sources.

Collagen Processing Methods

While the source of collagen powder is crucial in determining its quality and sustainability, it’s equally important to understand the various processing methods used to extract collagen. These methods play a significant role in the final product, affecting its bioavailability, purity, and overall effectiveness. By peeling back the curtain on collagen processing, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the differences in collagen powders and make a more informed choice.

One common processing method is enzymatic hydrolysis, which involves breaking down the collagen molecules into smaller peptides using enzymes. This method helps enhance the bioavailability of collagen, making it more easily absorbed by the body. Enzymatic hydrolysis ensures that the collagen powder dissolves quickly and seamlessly, allowing for better digestion and utilization within our system. This processing method is often preferred for its ability to provide a collagen supplement that can be readily absorbed, maximizing its potential benefits.

Another processing method gaining popularity is known as extraction through acid or heat. This technique involves using either acid or heat to extract collagen from its source. While this method can also break down collagen into smaller peptides, it may not achieve the same level of bioavailability as enzymatic hydrolysis. The resulting collagen powder may have a slightly different consistency and potentially require more time for absorption and utilization by our bodies. However, some individuals find this extraction method preferable due to personal preferences or specific health requirements.

Additional Ingredients Inside Collagen Powders

When analyzing collagen powders, it’s essential to pay attention to other ingredients that might be present in the product. Some collagen powders contain additional components that can enhance the overall benefits or cater to specific health concerns. One common ingredient you might come across is hyaluronic acid, a substance known for its hydrating properties. By combining hyaluronic acid with collagen, manufacturers aim to promote skin elasticity and joint health simultaneously. If you’re particularly focused on boosting your skin’s hydration levels, a collagen powder with added hyaluronic acid might be worth considering.

Another ingredient that often appears in collagen supplements is vitamin C. This essential vitamin plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis. Adding vitamin C to collagen powder can potentially enhance its effectiveness by supporting the body’s natural collagen production processes. Not only does vitamin C contribute to healthier skin and joints, but it also aids in immune system function. If you’re looking for a collagen powder that offers an extra boost to your overall health and wellbeing, one with added vitamin C might be a suitable choice.

While some collagen powders take a minimalist approach with their ingredient list, others include a variety of additional substances. These can range from herbs and botanical extracts to minerals and amino acids. For instance, you might find collagen powders that incorporate ingredients like biotin, known for its potential benefits to hair and nails, or glucosamine, recognized for its support in joint health. It’s important to examine the specific ingredients present in a collagen powder to determine whether they align with your personal goals and preferences.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some collagen powders might also contain ingredients that could be problematic for certain individuals. For example, individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies should pay close attention to potential allergens like gluten, dairy, or soy. Additionally, some collagen powders might contain artificial sweeteners, fillers, or additives that may not align with your desired dietary preferences. It’s crucial to read the ingredients list carefully and consider any sensitivities or dietary restrictions before making a purchase.

Do Collagen Powders Work?

If choosing between collagen powders or collagen creams, the general consensus is that collagen you ingest will be more effective than topically applied collagen. But whether this collagen you ingest actually reaches your SKIN versus other organs or joints in your body is an entirely different topic. Unfortunately, it’s uncertain whether this collagen actually benefits your skin. Basically it’s a maybe yes maybe no type of answer sadly. But some of us still want to incorporate collagen powders into our diet for overall health and well-being, and if it helps our skin, that would amazing, please and thank you.

Agent Nateur & Dr. Will Cole h o l I (m a ne )

Agent Nateur’s collagen powder contains marine-derived types I, II, III and IV types collagen, derived from the scales of wild-caught, deep-sea, non-GMO, kosher cod, pollock, and haddock.

It also contains pearl powder, an ancient Asian beauty secret, which extremely rich in ‘beauty minerals,’ and contains over 30 trace minerals and elements like calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, silica, and calcium phosphate. Pearl powder is the richest source of calcium on the planet (up to 80% by weight) and is absorbed twice as efficiently as conventional calcium supplements.

These two work together to offer one of the highest quality collagen powders you can find today.

Primal Kitchen Collagen Peptide Drink Mix

If you need a collagen drink mix that actually tastes like something you’d want to drink, the Primal Kitchen Vanilla Coconut is yummy, sugar free and comes with 11g of bovine collagen in each serving.

Primal Kitchen is a natural foods start-up turned industry changemaker with a line of real food condiments, sauces and supplements made with real, high-quality and vetted ingredients.

Ora Organic Plant-based Collagen Boosting Powder

If you’re looking for a vegan version of collagen powder, opt for organic supplement brands like Ora Organic who makes USDA certified organic supplements using only vegan ingredients. Their Collagen Boosting Powder contains Aloe Vera, Bamboo Silica and Pea Protein to help the body make more collagen.