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The Best Collagen Supplements for Women Over 50

Updated By the HealthWorld editorial teamHow we pick

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Top picks at a glance

  1. 1
    Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

    Best overall

    Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

    Collagen 20 g · Serving 2 scoops

  2. 2
    Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

    Best multi-source

    Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

    Types 5 · Sources 4

Collagen production declines with age, which is why collagen peptides are popular with women over 40 and 50 for skin, hair, nails and joints. Hydrolyzed collagen peptides dissolve easily and are the form used in most studies. Vital Proteins is our top pick for its simple, unflavored bovine powder, and Ancient Nutrition is the pick if you want several collagen types from multiple sources.

Our picks

  1. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

    #1Best overall

    Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

    20 g of grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen per two-scoop serving. Unflavored, and it dissolves in hot or cold drinks.

    Collagen 20 gServing 2 scoopsAmazon Full facts →
  2. Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

    #2Best multi-source

    Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

    Five types of collagen from four food sources in one powder, in unflavored and flavored versions.

    Types 5Sources 4Amazon Full facts →
Amazon's live top 100 in Collagen

What to look for

Hydrolyzed peptides
Look for 'collagen peptides' or 'hydrolyzed collagen'. They dissolve easily and are the form most studies use.
Dose
Studies on skin often use around 2.5–10 g of collagen peptides a day. Larger servings mainly add more protein.
Source
Bovine collagen is mainly types I and III, and marine collagen is mainly type I. Multi-source blends add others, so check the sources if you avoid beef, fish or other animal ingredients.
It isn't a complete protein
Collagen lacks the essential amino acid tryptophan, so it doesn't replace a complete protein like whey, eggs or fish for building muscle.

Frequently asked questions

How much collagen should a 40-year-old woman take?

Most studies use 2.5–10 g of collagen peptides a day, and changes in skin elasticity and hydration typically show up after 8–12 weeks of daily use. There's no special dose by age, so follow the label and stay consistent.

Does collagen help with hair growth?

There's little direct research on collagen and hair growth; the evidence is stronger for skin elasticity and hydration. If you're noticing hair loss, see a doctor to check for causes such as low iron, thyroid issues or hormonal changes.

Does collagen powder work?

Several controlled studies have found modest improvements in skin elasticity, hydration and wrinkles with daily collagen peptides, and some research supports joint comfort. Many studies are industry-funded and effects are modest, so set realistic expectations.

Can you take collagen with coffee?

Yes. Collagen peptides dissolve in hot drinks, and ordinary coffee temperatures don't destroy them. Stirring a scoop into your morning coffee is one of the easiest ways to make it a habit.

When should you take collagen, morning or night?

Any time works. Research hasn't shown a best time of day, so choose whenever you'll remember, such as in your morning coffee or an evening drink.

Sources