You’ve probably noticed: many collagen supplements have appeared on the market. How do you navigate an ever-expanding range of options? Géraldine Dubois, a physician and nutrition expert, analyzed and compared 15 products.
Collagen is a major component of many tissues in the human body (skin, cartilage, tendons, blood vessels, muscles, etc.) and plays a significant role in their architecture by providing strength.
Collagen is a large structural protein and by itself accounts for about 30% of the body’s proteins.
In the skin, its presence influences density, hydration, and resilience. With age, the decline in collagen production leads to changes such as the loss of skin elasticity and firmness.
Multiple publications1 have demonstrated the anti-aging benefits of oral collagen for the skin2 (combating skin sagging, filling fine lines, and reducing deep wrinkles).
Another main indication for a collagen supplementation regimen is joint comfort. Collagen supports the cohesion and elasticity of cartilage by contributing to its renewal and helping prevent its loss.
Taking collagen leads to gains in flexibility and mobility, as well as a reduction in pain3. Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis are two conditions in which collagen has shown a beneficial effect.
Marques évaluées : Apyforme, Biocyte, Dynveo, Eafit, Juvamine, Novoma, Nutralie, Nutri&Co, Nutrimea, Nutripure, Terra Vita, Twenty DC, Valebio, Vital Proteins
We independently evaluate all dietary supplements. If you click on one of the links provided, we may receive a commission, without it affecting the price or ranking.
Summary of my selection
# Best marine collagen
> Collagen – Nutri&Co
# Best bovine collagen
> Collagen peptides – Nutripure
# Best collagen for skin
> Beautiful Skin Collagen – Twenty DC
# Best collagen for joints
> Joint Collagen – Valebio
Methodology
I closely examined 15 of the best-selling collagen supplements online.
I gathered the supplements’ specifications from the brands’ websites, product packaging, and by contacting customer service directly when information was missing.
I rated and compared them using 5 criteria, then selected the best products in 7 categories.
→ Accédez à mon tableau comparatif complet ici (Google Sheet)
1. Nutritional value
To assess the nutritional value of a collagen supplement, I relied on:
L’origine et le type de collagène
Collagen is mainly extracted from cattle, pigs, fish, as well as eggshell membrane.
There are several types of collagen distributed in varying proportions in tissues. Types I, II, and III are the main ones.
Molecular weight
Collagen is a large protein that cannot be absorbed by the body as is. It must therefore be hydrolyzed, that is, cut into small pieces (peptides), to be able to cross the digestive barrier.
A low molecular weight (< 5000 Da) enhances the product’s bioavailability. The lower the collagen’s molecular weight, the better it is absorbed.
Quality and the manufacturer’s patent
To preserve all the qualities of collagen, the hydrolysis method used must be gentle. The extraction and hydrolysis processes used are covered by a patent from the manufacturer. They must specifically indicate the absence of heavy metals, solvent residues, and other contaminants.
A quality label is guaranteed by product certifications and testing (for example, Peptan®, Naticol®, Verisol®…) to attest to safe, effective collagen.
Les autres principes actifs
The presence of vitamins, trace elements, or hyaluronic acid can complement certain products for a more complete formula.
2. Safety
To assess the safety of the different collagens, I took into account 3 sub-criteria:
La provenance de la matière première
Most collagens on the market are of animal origin. It’s important to verify the origin of the raw material from which they are extracted.
Some brands do not always display it, while others put it front and center. I had to contact certain brands to obtain clarification.
La présence d’additifs et d’édulcorants
The rule of thumb is: the fewer, the better! An ingredient list that’s too long is generally not a guarantee of quality. Flavored formulas often contain more ingredients that you should watch closely.
Scientific support
Some brands have conducted efficacy tests with their own product. But it’s mainly the studies validated by the various patents held by collagen manufacturers that are highlighted.
3. Enjoyment
The idea of enjoyment with respect to a product is inherently more subjective. Moreover, this aspect was only tested on powdered collagens (capsules being generally more neutral).
I considered:
The solubility of the powder
I mixed the recommended dose of the 10 powder formulas from the selection in 200 ml of water. Some recommend simply using a glass of water or a hot or cold drink, others a shaker or even a blender! I observed how well the powder dissolved, how quickly a smooth, uniform mixture formed, and whether there were any clumps.
Le goût
I evaluated the product’s texture during tasting, its aroma, and the intensity of the flavor.
4. Brand recognition
To assign a score to the brand’s reputation, I relied on the company’s longevity and the size of its Instagram community.
I also incorporated the reviews shown on Amazon (when the products were sold there) and review sites such as Trustpilot or Avis Vérifiés.
5. Packaging
The packaging of the products tested is recyclable. Some brands also use recycled materials to make the container.
In a necessarily more subjective way, I also took into account the design, as well as the content and clarity of the labels. I also assessed the practicality of handling collagen powders (box or pouch closure, presence of a measuring spoon).
Best collagens: my opinion
# BEST MARINE COLLAGEN
Nutri&Co
Rating: 4.4/5
Nutrition: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Pleasure: ★★★★☆
Brand: ★★★★★
Packaging: ★★★★☆
Pros
- Two types of marine collagen
- Contains vitamin C
- Reliable patented manufacturing processes
- Subtle but nice peach flavor that lets you take it with just water
- Brand reputation
- Fair price
Cons
- Moderately dosed (5.5 g per serving)
Nutri&co was founded in 2017 by Édouard Fornas in Aix-en-Provence. The brand is on the rise. Thanks to quality products, it has become a leading player in nutraceuticals.
Nutri&co’s collagen is a marine collagen powder available in 3 flavors (peach, cucumber-mint, cocoa). It is intended for skin and joints.
The marine collagen peptides are types I and II, sourced from controlled fisheries. The molecular weight is low for optimal absorption.
It is recommended to take the equivalent of 2 daily scoops (6 g in total), which provide 5.5 g of patented type I and II collagen (HMG® 5 g and Cartidyss® 500 mg).
It is complemented by 24 mg of vitamin C per serving and a peach flavor. And that’s it!
The test focused on the peach version. The powder mixes well. Upon tasting, you get a subtle, pleasant peach flavor with no fishy taste.
For a one-month regimen, expect to pay €24.9, which is a reasonable price compared to the rest of the selection.
# BEST BOVINE COLLAGEN
Nutripure
Rating: 3.8/5
Nutrition: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★☆☆
Enjoyment: ★★★★☆
Brand: ★★★★☆
Packaging: ★★★★☆
Pros
- Only 1 ingredient in the unflavored version
- Well dosed in collagen
- Well-known brand
- Reasonable price
- Neutral in taste
Cons
- Additives in the flavored versions
The brand was created by the Carrio brothers in 2017. Their specialty is sports nutrition. Their stated objective is to offer the most natural formulas possible. The brand has a good reputation, especially among the sports community.
Nutripure Collagen Peptides, in its unflavored version, has the advantage of containing only one ingredient: the patented Peptan® collagen peptide. This bovine-derived collagen is patented by a company with a global presence. It is stated that the raw material comes from the European Union.
Nutripure recommends taking 10 to 20 g of collagen per day, i.e., 1 to 2 scoops.
There is a wide selection of flavored options (6 in total). Some are ready-made formulas (chocolate and lemon), others are sold with a flavoring to mix in. The product’s flavored versions contain some additives and sweeteners, which is why I don’t recommend them.
The unflavored version dissolves very well and doesn’t have a noticeable taste.
The price for a one-month regimen at 10 g per day is on the lower end compared to the selection.
# BEST COLLAGEN FOR THE SKIN
Twenty DC
Rating: 3.8/5
Nutrition : ★★★★☆
Safety : ★★★★☆
Pleasure : ★★★★☆
Brand : ★★★☆☆
Pack : ★★★★☆
Pros
- Well dosed in collagen
- Uses 2 forms of collagen: marine and eggshell membrane
- Nice packaging
Cons
- Flavored varieties with additives: not recommended
- Lack of information on the precise origin of the marine collagen. The collagen manufacturer is not mentioned
- A bit expensive
Twenty DC is a brand specializing in collagen. It was founded by 2 entrepreneurs with experience in sports nutrition.
Twenty DC comes in a box with a nice design and color scheme.
I tested the unflavored version.
The formula consists of 2 types of collagen: marine and eggshell membrane (Ovoderm®), which contains collagen. There are no other active ingredients. However, eggshell membrane naturally contains small amounts of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin, and elastin.
The origin of the marine collagen is not mentioned, nor is the extraction process. I contacted the brand’s customer service to obtain more detailed information. In their reply, they told me that Twenty DC works with trusted suppliers, that the formulations undergo thorough testing, and that the marine collagen used is of high quality.
Note that there are 2 flavored versions. I don’t recommend them because they contain too many additives and sweeteners in my opinion.
The recommended daily dose is 10 g of collagen (9.85 g of marine collagen and 150 mg of Ovoderm® per scoop). The smell in the jar isn’t very pleasant, but upon tasting, the flavor is truly neutral. The powder takes a little time to fully dissolve.
Twenty DC highlights a laboratory double-blind, randomized study conducted with 50 women who followed a 20-day course of Collagène Peau Magnifique. The results report firmer skin (+21%), more hydrated skin (+24%), and smoother skin (+84%).
A one-month course comes to just over €50, which is relatively expensive compared with the rest of the selection.
# BEST COLLAGEN FOR JOINTS
Valebio
Rating: 4.0/5
Nutrition: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★☆
Pleasure: ★★★★☆
Brand: ★★★★☆
Pack: ★★★★☆
Pros
- Very comprehensive for joint support
- 3 types of collagen
- Laboratory that emphasizes transparency
- Naticol® collagen of recognized quality
Cons
- High cost (even though the presence of other ingredients may justify the price)
Valebio is a French brand founded in 2015 that promotes nutraceuticals in the service of health, beauty, and well-being. The company emphasizes its commitment to quality and expertise, as well as respect for the environment.
The collagen in this joint-support product is marine-derived. It includes types I, II, and III, and is labeled Naticol®. This collagen manufacturer enjoys an excellent reputation for its range of naturally sourced marine collagen peptides using a gentle hydrolysis process.
Valebio’s Joint Marine Collagen contains a true joint-support complex. In addition to vitamin C, it includes several complementary substances with regenerative and anti-inflammatory actions: MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), GAGs (glucosamine and chondroitin), horsetail, and nettle.
The powder tends to form lumps, and it is necessary to mix well for them to disappear. The tangy taste is fairly subtle and pleasant, but I still notice a slight fishy aftertaste at the end.
# BEST COLLAGEN AND HYALURONIC ACID
Biocyte
Rating: 3.6/5
Nutrition: ★★★☆☆
Safety: ★★★☆☆
Enjoyment: ★★★★☆
Brand: ★★★★☆
Packaging: ★★★★☆
Pros
- Good hyaluronic acid content
- Pleasant chocolatey taste
Cons
- Presence of additives in the chocolate-flavored formula
- EU and non-EU origin of the raw material, with no further details
Biocyte is a French nutricosmetics brand founded in 2006 on the Côte d’Azur. The dietary supplements are formulated for beauty, anti-aging, slimming, and health.
The collagen used in Collagen max cacao is type I, of marine origin, from the manufacturer Vérisol®. The indicated daily dose contains 7 g of collagen.
The fish source used by the manufacturer Vérisol® comes from within the European Union (EU) as well as from outside the EU, with no further details provided. Vérisol® collagen has been the subject of a substantial number of scientific studies.
In addition to this collagen, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are included. Biocyte has the highest hyaluronic acid concentration among the selected products, at 110 mg per serving.
The formula contains steviol glycoside, a natural sweetener, as well as several additives (maltodextrin, xanthan gum, salt).
The price is relatively high, since a one-month course costs €55.50.
The chocolatey taste is pleasant even though I find the texture a bit grainy.
# BEST COLLAGEN IN CAPSULES
Novoma
Rating: 4.0/5
Nutrition: ★★★☆☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Pleasure: N/A (capsules)
Brand: ★★★★☆
Packaging: ★★★★☆
Pros
- Multiple associated vitamins and hyaluronic acid
- Reasonable price
- Recycled and recyclable bottle
Cons
- Low collagen dosage (specific to the capsule version)
Novoma is a French brand founded in 2012. Formerly called Nutrivita, the company was created by 2 natives of Gers committed to offering high-quality dietary supplements.
Novoma Marine Collagen is composed of 2 types of collagen (I and III) of low molecular weight, patented as Naticol®. This ingredient is French-made; it is extracted from wild-caught fish and carries a sustainable fishing certification.
The formula is designed for beauty benefits for the skin, hair, and nails.
This purpose is reflected in the composition of the capsules by a wide range of vitamins (including Quali®-C vitamin C), as well as hyaluronic acid and zinc.
The recommended daily dose is 3 capsules for a total of 1 g of collagen and 100 mg of hyaluronic acid. This is a low collagen dose. The brand also sells a higher-dose marine collagen powder.
The cost of the bottle for a one-month supply is very reasonable (€19.90). Note that it is a bottle made from recycled material, an eco-friendly plus.
# BEST VEGETARIAN COLLAGEN
Apyforme
Rating: 4.0/5
Nutrition: ★★★★☆
Safety: ★★★★★
Pleasure: NA (gélules)
Brand: ★★★☆☆
Packaging: ★★★★☆
Pros
- One of the only formulas strictly suitable for vegetarians
- Ethical and environmentally friendly laboratory
Cons
- Low in collagen
- Little documentation on this type of collagen extracted from eggshell membrane
Apyforme is a French brand founded in 2007 and based in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
The formula is very low in collagen: only 0.9 g of Ovoderm® collagen, which is type I collagen.
The active ingredients are extracted from eggshell membrane, without chemical solvents. Its composition naturally contains elastin, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid. Of course, the capsules are guaranteed to contain no ingredients of animal origin.
The brand highlights that Ovoderm® collagen has been patented three times and that its effects have been validated 16 times by clinical studies, which seem to support a daily dose of 300 mg. However, so-called vegetarian collagens are still underrepresented on the market and have benefited from fewer scientific publications than animal-derived collagens.
The protocol for a course described by the brand as intense consists of taking 3 capsules per day for 14 days, then 2 capsules per day for 1 month. The cost is at the lower end of the selection (24.9€).
This collagen is suitable for people following a strict vegetarian diet.
Complete comparison
| NOTE | Nutrition | Sécurité | Plaisir | Marque | Pack | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 – Nutri&co | 4,4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| Apyforme | 4,0 | 4 | 5 | x | 3 | 4 |
| Novoma | 4,0 | 3 | 5 | x | 4 | 4 |
| Valebio | 4,0 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Nutripure | 3.8 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Twenty DC | 3.8 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| Biocyte | 3.6 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Dynveo | 3.5 | 3 | 4 | x | 3 | 4 |
| Nutrimea | 3.5 | 3 | 4 | x | 3 | 4 |
| Eafit | 3.4 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Terra Vita | 3.4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Vital Proteins | 3.0 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Nutralie | 2.5 | 3 | 2 | x | 2 | 3 |
| Juvamine | 2.2 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 2 | 3 |
→ Accédez à mon tableau comparatif complet ici (Google Sheet)
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Pourquoi prendre du collagène ?
La production naturelle de collagène diminue avec l’âge4. Les études scientifiques estiment que nous perdons 1 % de collagène par an à partir de 40 ans5.
Vers 80 ans, la production de collagène corporel diminue globalement de 75 % par rapport à celle des jeunes adultes.
Une complémentation est indiquée pour compenser cette perte.
Quel est le meilleur collagène, marin ou bovin ?
Les peptides de collagène peuvent être extraits de différentes sources, les plus courantes étant les bovins et le poisson (appelé collagène marin).
Il semblerait que le collagène marin soit plus assimilable que celui de bovin6. Mais les équipes de recherche ne sont pas toujours d’accord sur ce sujet. D’autre part, de nombreux paramètres peuvent influer sur la qualité d’assimilation du collagène.
📚 Lire aussi | Meilleur collagène marin : l’avis d’un médecin
Combien de temps dure une cure de collagène ?
Les marques testées préconisent le plus souvent une cure d’un mois, voire un peu moins (20 jours).
Dans les publications de revues de la littérature scientifique, la durée moyenne d’étude sur la prise de collagène porte généralement sur 8 à 24 semaines selon les indications.
Il ne ressort pas de recommandations claires et officielles. Néanmoins, il semble intéressant de faire des cures régulières à partir de 25 ans étant donnée l’évolution de la production de collagène avec l’âge. Pour les mêmes raisons, la fréquence des cures devrait augmenter au fil des années.
Il est nécessaire de prendre en compte des facteurs individuels car les besoins dépendent du terrain, des antécédents et doivent être déterminés au cas par cas.
Où trouver du collagène dans son alimentation ?
On trouve du collagène à l’état brut dans les produits d’origine animale. L’os à moelle, par exemple, en est riche et peut être consommé sous forme de bouillon pour en favoriser l’extraction. Il s’agit d’une bonne source de collagène de type I.
La peau de poulet et les sardines représentent également une source intéressante de collagène. Dans le poisson, on le trouve principalement dans la peau, les arrêtes et les écailles.
Quelle dose de collagène faut-il prendre par jour ?
Les recommandations en termes de dosage sont difficiles à préciser. On relève de grandes variations dans les études concernant la dose et la durée d’administration du collagène.
Ainsi, pour la peau, certaines tendent à montrer qu’une dose de 2,5 g/ jour suffit à obtenir des bénéfices2 7.
Pour des bienfaits articulaires, un apport journalier de 5 g de collagène sur 12 mois semble déjà être bénéfique sur la densité minérale osseuse et certains marqueurs osseux chez un groupe de femmes ménopausées8.
Néanmoins, 10 g par jour reste la dose quotidienne la plus couramment retrouvée dans les études, surtout pour des effets articulaires (douleurs liées à l’arthrose ou en cas d’ostéoporose)9.
Quelle est la meilleure marque de collagène ?
Les marques qui commercialisent du collagène font appel, la plupart du temps, à des fabricants labellisés qui extraient et hydrolysent le collagène pour le rendre facilement assimilable. Les meilleures sont celles qui offrent le plus de transparence sur l’origine de la matière première, les modalités d’extraction et d’hydrolyse du collagène.
Les principaux fabricants brevetés sont Peptan®, Naticol®, Verisol® et Cartidyss®. La transparence et la qualité des études menées sur les produits sont un gage de qualité.
Selon notre comparatif, les meilleures marques de collagène sont Nutri&Co, Nutripure, Valebio, Apyforme, Twenty DC, Biocyte et Novoma.
Faut-il prendre du collagène de type 1 ou de type 2 ?
Il existe 28 types de collagènes identifiés dans des proportions très différentes dans les tissus du corps humain10.
Plus de 90% du collagène est de type I. Il est principalement localisé dans la peau (au niveau du derme) mais se trouve également dans la plupart des tissus. Ainsi, pour un effet global, mieux vaut privilégier ce type de collagène.
Le collagène de type II est plus spécifique du cartilage. C’est celui à favoriser pour une action articulaire.
Le type III est présent dans la paroi des vaisseaux, les muscles mais se situe aussi au niveau de la peau10, en proportion moindre.
Faut-il prendre du collagène ou de l’acide hyaluronique ?
Le collagène et l’acide hyaluronique sont tous deux présents au sein de la matrice extracellulaire de la peau. Leurs effets sont complémentaires.
Les fibres de collagène forment un maillage solide qui assure le soutien de la peau et sa résistance. L’acide hyaluronique est une molécule primordiale pour maintenir l’hydratation cutanée car elle est capable de retenir 1000 fois son poids en eau.
Ces 2 substances forment donc un duo gagnant pour assurer l’aspect et la texture de la peau.
📚 Lire aussi | Meilleur complément à l’acide hyaluronique
Bibliographie
1. Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz MLW, Mesinkovsk NA. Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. J Drugs Dermatol JDD. 2019;18(1):9-16.
2. Bolke L, Schlippe G, Gerß J, Voss W. A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients. 2019;11(10):2494. doi:10.3390/nu11102494
3. Khatri M, Naughton RJ, Clifford T, Harper LD, Corr L. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids. 2021;53(10):1493-1506. doi:10.1007/s00726-021-03072-x
4. Varani J, Dame MK, Rittie L, et al. Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin. Am J Pathol. 2006;168(6):1861-1868. doi:10.2353/ajpath.2006.051302
5. Baumann L. Skin ageing and its treatment. J Pathol. 2007;211(2):241-251. doi:10.1002/path.2098
6. Davison-Kotler E, Marshall WS, García-Gareta E. Sources of Collagen for Biomaterials in Skin Wound Healing. Bioengineering. 2019;6(3):56. doi:10.3390/bioengineering6030056
7. Proksch E, Schunck M, Zague V, Segger D, Degwert J, Oesser S. Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2013;27(3):113-119. doi:10.1159/000355523
8. König D, Oesser S, Scharla S, Zdzieblik D, Gollhofer A. Specific Collagen Peptides Improve Bone Mineral Density and Bone Markers in Postmenopausal Women-A Randomized Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2018;10(1):97. doi:10.3390/nu10010097
9. Moskowitz RW. Role of collagen hydrolysate in bone and joint disease. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2000;30(2):87-99. doi:10.1053/sarh.2000.9622
10. León-López A, Morales-Peñaloza A, Martínez-Juárez VM, Vargas-Torres A, Zeugolis DI, Aguirre-Álvarez G. Hydrolyzed Collagen—Sources and Applications. Molecules. 2019;24(22):4031. doi:10.3390/molecules24224031
