Reviewing The Most Effective Collagen

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Our Top 5 Collagen Supplements 2025

Written & Posted by

Lucy Pereira

Why Taking Collagen Is Important

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, acting as the foundation for your skin, hair, nails, joints, and even your gut. But as you age, your body naturally produces less collagen—by as much as 1% per year starting in your mid-20s. This decline can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, thinning hair, joint discomfort, and even brittle nails.

 

While a healthy diet can support collagen production, modern lifestyles, stress, and environmental factors make it difficult to maintain optimal levels. That’s why supplementing with high-quality marine collagen can make a real difference, helping to restore and replenish what time takes away.

Supplementing with a high-grade marine collagen can help:

Skin Elasticity

Nail Health

Bone Density

Hair Growth

Joint Flexibility

Hydration

Why Is Marine Collagen So Effective?

Unlike other collagen sources, marine collagen is known for its high bioavailability, meaning it’s easily absorbed and used by the body. This is due to its smaller peptide size, allowing it to be efficiently transported to where it’s needed most—your skin, hair, joints, and nails. Marine collagen, particularly Type I collagen, is the closest match to the collagen found in your skin, making it the gold standard for beauty and anti-aging benefits.

 

Additionally, when combined with key nutrients like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Antioxidants, collagen supplementation becomes even more powerful, stimulating your body’s own collagen production for long-term results.

How Can You Benefit From Marine Collagen?

Adding marine collagen to your routine can lead to noticeable improvements in just weeks:

Smoother, firmer skin

Boosts skin elasticity and hydration, reducing fine lines, dryness, and signs of aging. Supports collagen production for a plumper, more youthful complexion.

Stronger, thicker hair

Strengthens hair from within, promoting growth, reducing shedding, and enhancing shine. Supports hair follicle health for thicker, fuller strands.

Healthy Nails & Joints

Supports nail strength and growth, reducing breakage and brittleness. Promotes joint mobility and flexibility, easing stiffness and discomfort.

4 Things That Separate "The Good" Collagen from "The Bad"

Many are turning to collagen supplements for long-term skin, hair, and joint support, but not all are created equal. Some use low-quality collagen, ineffective dosages, or lack key nutrients for absorption. We reviewed top formulas and identified five key features that ensure real results. If these 4 features are met, you have a quality collagen supplement:

Potent Collagen Dosage

A high quality collagen supplement should contain a potent dose of collagen. We recommend looking for around ~1000mg of Marine Collagen (Type 1)

Hydrolyzed Peptides

Choose marine collagen that is broken down into smaller peptides - hydrolyzed collagen is easier for the body to absorb and use for skin, hair, and joint health.

Key Nutrients

Look for Vitamin C (essential for collagen synthesis), Hyaluronic Acid (for hydration), and Antioxidants (to protect against collagen breakdown).

Sustainability

Wild-caught fish collagen is purer and free from antibiotics and hormones often found in farmed sources. It also supports ethical, eco-friendly practices.

Perhaps even more important, there are certain red flags to be wary of when evaluating the different brands.

What should I avoid?

When choosing a marine collagen supplement, not all products are created equal. Some formulas may seem promising but contain hidden drawbacks that can affect their quality, effectiveness, and even your health. To ensure you're getting the best possible benefits, here are three key things to avoid when selecting a marine collagen supplement.

Collagen from Unknown or Low-Quality Sources

Some brands use farmed fish or collagen blends that may contain contaminants like antibiotics, hormones, or heavy metals. Additionally, low-grade collagen has lower bioavailability, meaning your body absorbs less of it. Always check for wild-caught, sustainably sourced collagen to ensure purity and effectiveness.

Harsh Additives, Fillers, or Preservatives

Choose marine collagen that is broken down into smaller peptides - hydrolyzed collagen is easier for the body to absorb and use for skin, hair, and joint health.

Watch out for online reviews

Many companies pay for fake reviews to boost ratings, making it hard to judge a product’s true quality. While reviews can offer insight, don’t rely on them alone—do your own research. Be wary of misleading listings on marketplaces where reviews can be manipulated. For quality and safety, buy from trusted brands with verified websites that produce in the UK.

Top 5 Marine Collagen Supplements of 2025

This comprehensive side-by-side comparison evaluates the top 5 marine collagen supplements based on efficacy, formulation, and scientific research. Our analysis considers key factors such as collagen source, bioavailability, and additional skin-supporting ingredients to help you choose the most effective option for your skincare and wellness goals.

Overall Rating

Total Ranking

Pros

1000mg Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen

With 120mg Hyaluronic Acid

Contains Turmeric, Blueberry & Kelp

Contains Biotin, Vitamins C & E 

No Artificial Fillers / Binders

90 Day Money-Back Guarantee

Made In Britain

Formulated By Nutritionists

Cons

Only Available Online

No Express Shipping

The Bottom Line

The Pretty Smart Food Co. Collagen Complex – Our #1 Pick

 

The Pretty Smart Food Co.’s Collagen Complex delivers a powerful 1000mg of Hydrolysed Marine Collagen (Type 1) per serving, making it one of the most effective collagen supplements available. Unlike some brands that use lower doses or less effective types, this 16-ingredient formula is designed to work in harmony for maximum skin, hair, joint, and overall health benefits.

 

With Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, Turmeric for antioxidant support, and key vitamins like C, E, and Biotin, this blend nourishes from within. It also includes Blueberry, Kelp and Minerals to further support vitality.

 

Manufactured in the UK to high standards, The Pretty Smart Food Co. backs its product with a 90-day money-back guarantee and free shipping, making it a top choice for those seeking a potent, well-rounded collagen supplement.

 

*Results and rankings are based on subjective opinion and an internal ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from product use. Please visit product websites for more information.

Buy Collagen HydroPro👉

2. Nutralie Collagen

by Nutralie

Overall Rating

Total Ranking

Pros

Contains Biotin & Vitamin C

Easy To Swallow

GMO Free

Cons

No Money Back Guarantee

Low Collagen Dose

Not Made in Britain

The Bottom Line

The Nutralie Collagen supplement tries to offer a well-rounded formula but falls short in key areas.

 

Despite adding vitamin C for absorption and CoQ10 for antioxidant support, the formula feels underwhelming. 

 

With just 370mg of collagen, it offers a short supply, meaning you’ll need to repurchase more frequently. Additionally, while it claims to support skin, joints, and bones, the lack of transparency around ingredient potency makes it hard to trust its impact.

 

Overall, Nutralie’s Collagen Complex feels like an average, lower-tier option that may not deliver noticeable results. There are stronger, better-formulated collagen supplements available at similar or better value.

 

*Results and rankings are based on subjective opinion and an internal ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from product use. Please visit product websites for more information.

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3. Collagen Complex

by Solgar

Overall Rating

Total Ranking

Pros

Available in retail stores

Dairy Free

Contains Hyaluronic Acid

Cons

Contains Fillers & Bulking Agents

Low Collagen Dose

The Bottom Line

Solgar is known for high-quality supplements, but their Collagen Hyaluronic Acid Complex fails to make second place. While it contains BioCell Collagen II®, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin, and vitamin C, the collagen dosage and origin is unclear, and it lacks key ingredients like zinc or biotin found in more advanced formulas. 

 

The tablet form may be inconvenient, and despite its premium price, it offers less than competitors with higher doses and broader ingredient profiles. The one positive is Solgar’s high manufacturing standards, but overall, this supplement fails to stand out for skin health.

 

*Results and rankings are based on subjective opinion and an internal ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from product use. Please visit product websites for more information.

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4. MyProtein Collagen

by My Protein

Overall Rating

Total Ranking

Pros

Collagen is hydrolysed

Gluten Free

Cons

No Marine Collagen

Just 400mg Dose

The Bottom Line

Myvitamins Collagen Capsules are convenient and easy to take, making them a simple addition to any routine. However, the formula is underwhelming, with just 400mg of hydrolyzed bovine Type 1 collagen per capsule—a far lower dose than more effective collagen supplements.

 

It also lacks essential co-factors like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or zinc, which are crucial for collagen synthesis and absorption. While marketed as a quick and effortless way to boost collagen levels, the low dosage makes it unlikely to deliver noticeable results for skin, hair, or joint health.

 

Overall, despite its convenience, this supplement falls short in potency and formulation, making it a weak contender compared to more comprehensive collagen products.

 

*Results and rankings are based on subjective opinion and an internal ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from product use. Please visit product websites for more information.

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5. Collagen Tablets

by Project Nutrition

Overall Rating

Total Ranking

Pros

Contains Marine Collagen

Made in the UK

Cons

Contains Anti-Caking Agents

No Hyaluronic Acid

Very Basic Formulation

The Bottom Line

Project Nutrition’s Pure Collagen Tablets contain Peptan marine collagen, making them a pescatarian-friendly option.
 

However, the formula is basic, lacking key nutrients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or zinc for better absorption. The tablet form may also be less convenient compared to powders or capsules.
 

While it offers a good collagen source, more advanced and comprehensive options are available at a similar price, and it therefore comes last in this review.

 

*Results and rankings are based on subjective opinion and an internal ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from product use. Please visit product websites for more information.

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Lucy Pereira | Nutritionist

Lucy is a skilled nutritionist specialising in personalised plans that support metabolism, gut health, and immunity. She translates the latest research into practical, evidence-based strategies, combining whole foods and high-quality supplements to enhance energy, cognition, and long-term well-being.

Reference Studies

 

Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yoon et al.
Reference: Yoon, J., et al. (2023). Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. International Journal of Dermatology.

PMC

 

Oral Administration of Hyaluronic Acid to Improve Skin Conditions via Regeneration of Epidermal Cells
Authors: Zhang et al.
Reference: Zhang, L., et al. (2023). Oral Administration of Hyaluronic Acid to Improve Skin Conditions via Regeneration of Epidermal Cells. Skin Research and Technology.

Wiley Online Library

 

Marine Collagen: A Promising Biomaterial for Wound Healing, Skin Aging, and Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Silvipriya et al.
Reference: Silvipriya, K.S., et al. (2022). Marine Collagen: A Promising Biomaterial for Wound Healing, Skin Aging, and Bone Tissue Engineering. Marine Drugs.

PMC

 

A Clinical Trial Shows Improvement in Skin Collagen, Hydration, and Elasticity After Supplementation with Collagen Peptides
Authors: Borumand and Sibilla
Reference: Borumand, M., & Sibilla, S. (2024). A Clinical Trial Shows Improvement in Skin Collagen, Hydration, and Elasticity After Supplementation with Collagen Peptides. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Wiley Online Library

 

Ingestion of an Oral Hyaluronan Solution Improves Skin Hydration, Wrinkle Reduction, Elasticity, and Skin Roughness: Results of a Clinical Study
Authors: Göllner et al.
Reference: Göllner, I., et al. (2017). Ingestion of an Oral Hyaluronan Solution Improves Skin Hydration, Wrinkle Reduction, Elasticity, and Skin Roughness: Results of a Clinical Study. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine.

SAGE Journals

 

Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Marine Collagen for Delaying Skin Aging
Authors: Rahman et al.
Reference: Rahman, A., et al. (2024). Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Marine Collagen for Delaying Skin Aging. Marine Drugs.

MDPI

 

Considering Collagen Drinks and Supplements?
Authors: Harvard Health Publishing
Reference: Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). Considering Collagen Drinks and Supplements? Harvard Health Blog.

Harvard Health

 

The Hype on Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Liu and Nassim
Reference: Liu, K., & Nassim, J. (2020). The Hype on Hyaluronic Acid. Harvard Health Blog.

Harvard Health

 

Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications
Authors: Choi et al.
Reference: Choi, F.D., et al. (2019). Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

JDD Online

 

The Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Collagen and Vitamin C and Their Combination with Hyaluronic Acid on Skin Density, Texture, and Other Parameters: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Žmitek et al.
Reference: Žmitek, K., et al. (2024). The Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Collagen and Vitamin C and Their Combination with Hyaluronic Acid on Skin Density, Texture, and Other Parameters: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients.

MDPI

 

A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Fish-Derived Collagen Peptide Supplementation on Skin Wrinkles and Elasticity
Authors: Inoue et al.
Reference: Inoue, N., et al. (2016). A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Fish-Derived Collagen Peptide Supplementation on Skin Wrinkles and Elasticity. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Wiley Online Library

 

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