You have probably seen collagen popping up in everything from powders and protein bars to beauty drinks and gummies. But if you’re considering adding it to your routine, it can be tricky to know what’s actually helpful and what’s just clever marketing.
At Honest to Goodness, we’re all about simple, wholesome ingredients, so we’ve put together this easy guide to help you make an informed choice when it comes to collagen supplements – showing you what to look for and what to leave on the shelf.
WHAT IS COLLAGEN?
Collagen is a key structural protein found throughout your skin, bones, muscles, tendons and even your digestive tract – essentially the glue that keeps everything connected and functioning smoothly. However, from as early as our mid-20s, our natural collagen production begins to decline. That’s where collagen supplements come in.
The right collagen powder can support healthy, glowing skin, help soften the appearance of fine lines, aid joint recovery, and even strengthen hair and nails. But not all supplements are made the same, so choosing the right one matters.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENT
1. Hydrolysed collagen peptides
Collagen in its natural form is made up of long chains of amino acids, which can be too large for your body to absorb efficiently. Hydrolysed collagen – also known as collagen peptides – has been broken down into much smaller chains through a process called hydrolysis. This makes it easier for your digestive system to absorb and use the amino acids where your body needs them most.
If your collagen supplement isn’t hydrolysed, your body may struggle to break it down, meaning you might not experience the full benefits. Choosing a supplement labelled as “hydrolysed collagen” or “collagen peptides” ensures you’re getting collagen in a form your body can actually put to work.
2. Type I and Type III collagen for skin, hair and nails
Type I and Type III collagen are the most abundant collagen types found in your body, especially in the skin, tendons, and connective tissues. Type I collagen makes up about 90% of the collagen in your skin and is essential for maintaining skin’s firmness and elasticity. Meanwhile, Type III collagen supports the structure of skin, blood vessels, and organs, working alongside Type I to keep skin hydrated and resilient.
Together, these collagen types play a crucial role in promoting skin elasticity, improving hydration, and strengthening hair and nails. Many high-quality bovine collagen supplements contain both Type I and Type III collagen, making them a great choice if you’re aiming to support a healthy, youthful appearance from the inside out.
3. No fillers, flavours, or sweeteners
Real collagen doesn’t need to be pink, sweet, or taste like a lolly. In fact, the best kind is often the simplest – just one ingredient: collagen. If your powder has a long list of extras like artificial flavours, sweeteners, or gums, it might be doing more harm than good. Look for a clean, pure option made with care.
4. Sustainably and ethically sourced
Where your collagen comes from matters. Choose collagen that’s grass-fed and pasture-raised if it’s bovine, or sustainably caught if it’s marine. Ethically produced collagen not only supports the planet but also gives you peace of mind about what you’re putting in your body. Look for clear info on sourcing and trusted certifications like grass-fed on the packaging.
WHAT TO AVOID IN COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS
1. Hidden sugars and flavours
Collagen drinks and gummies can be a handy option, but some sneak in added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or flavourings. While these often improve the taste, they can also affect the overall quality of the product. If you’re all about keeping it natural, keep an eye out for things like sucralose, stevia blends or “natural” flavouring on the label.
2. Low collagen content per serve
Some supplements only pack a tiny amount of collagen, not enough to really make an impact. You’re aiming for around 5-15g of collagen peptides a day to see the benefits. If you have to take five serves just to get there, it’s probably not the best use of your time or money.
3. Overhyped “miracle” blends
You might come across products promising quick results like turning back time or melting fat. While collagen can support your skin and joints, it’s most effective when combined with a balanced, nourishing lifestyle rather than relied on as a standalone fix. If a claim sounds too good to be true, it’s worth taking a closer look.
REAL RESULTS START WITH REAL INGREDIENTS
At Honest to Goodness, we’re all about keeping things simple and natural. That’s why we recommend pure collagen peptides made with just one clean ingredient – collagen. Whether you’re adding it to your morning smoothie, coffee or oats, supporting your skin, joints and gut can be as easy as one scoop a day.
