If you’re wondering whether collagen supplements actually work and which one is best on the market, there is no one answer. It comes down to a number of factors, and everyone is different.
Of course, collagen products and ingestible beauty are touted for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin hydration, texture and elasticity, reducing joint pain, increasing bone density, and strengthening brittle nails and hair. But this comes with several caveats.
Firstly, our body’s collagen production naturally declines with age, and other lifestyle choices like excess sun exposure, smoking, and alcohol consumption accelerate this decline. Further, by the time we’ve reached the age of 60, a considerable decrease is normal, and women experience a dramatic reduction during and after perimenopause and menopause. When supplementing with collagen, we can’t control which parts of the body the broken-down amino acids reach, and consuming excess amounts doesn’t mean your body will use them. It also comes down to the source of collagen you choose, as each type delivers unique benefits.
So, while we all desire plump, supple skin and longer hair, it’s worth testing your chosen collagen supplement over a couple of months to see what happens. I prefer a quick, low-effort approach, stirring a heat-stable liquid collagen supplement into my morning coffee. Personally, the biggest difference I notice is faster-growing hair and nails.
While further clinical research is needed to understand the benefits of collagen supplementation, some studies suggest promising results. In 2023, a systematic review of 26 trials published in Nutrients found that taking hydrolysed collagen for eight weeks improved skin hydration and elasticity. Similarly, in 2024, a clinical trial published in Dermatology Research and Practice showed that combining hydrolysed collagen with vitamin C over 12 weeks enhanced skin hydration, elasticity, and hair growth. Of course, many collagen supplements also contain other beauty-boosting ingredients, such as vitamin C and biotin, which are already proven to benefit skin, hair, and nails.
If you’re curious about trying a collagen supplement for yourself, we’ve rounded up some of the best collagen supplements in New Zealand, including a variety of powders, tablets, liquid sachets and gummy forms, alongside other features like flavour that will make your supplementation a more enjoyable ritual.
Disclaimer: Always read the label of any products mentioned and speak to your healthcare provider before use.
Top-rated collagen supplements, snacks & drinks
Marine Collagen + Keratin Supplement
$59.90 (usually $89.90) at abeeco
The best collagen supplement for addressing common beauty concerns
abeeco’s hydrolysed marine collagen supplement supports skin elasticity and hydration, reducing fine lines and improving texture. The addition of keratin, derived from pure New Zealand sheep’s wool, penetrates the hair shaft for smoother, shinier hair, including reducing eyelash and brow breakage.
Impressively, the potent combination of collagen and keratin strengthens nails, helping prevent brittleness.
A noteworthy addition to your skincare routine, take 3 capsules daily with a glass of water on an empty stomach, either in the morning or before bedtime.
The collagen and keratin supplement has garnered a number of glowing customer reviews, with people saying they’ve noticed an increase in the need to clip their nails or that their eyelashes are thicker, longer, and finally visible.
Editor’s tip: For added nutritional and joint support, some customers mix half a scoop (7g) of abeeco’s Ultra Collagen+ protein powder into their water bottle and sip throughout the day. Then, at night before bed, they take the Marine Collagen + Keratin capsules.
Key features:
- New Zealand-owned brand
- Subscribe and save delivery option
Daily Beauty Berry
$34.74 at Mister Jones
The best vegan collagen supplement for skin, digestion and energy
Formulated by naturopaths, this berry-flavoured, plant-based collagen powder includes additional prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and organic quinoa sprouts to support gut health, alleviate bloating, and improve energy levels. For best results, mix one scoop with 250ml of water, and consume twice daily.
Collagen source: Plant-based (includes proline, glycine and lysine)
Key features:
- Vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free
- Subscribe and save delivery option
Pro Collagen+
$106.79 at Vida Glow
The best collagen powder sachets for radiant skin
Each Vida Glow Pro Collagen+ powder sachet serving contains 2500mg of hydrolysed marine collagen tripeptides, alongside hyaluronic acid, for better-hydrated skin.
The Sydney-based brand undertook a 12-week consumer trial featuring 21 women aged 25-75 who were new to collagen supplements or had not taken them consistently. The trial found that consistent use of Pro Collagen+ over 12 weeks led to improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, and a reduction in fine lines.
Incorporating Pro Collagen+ into your daily routine is simple. Mix one powder sachet into a glass of water or hot drink each day. For lasting results, long-term use is key.
Collagen type: I
Collagen source: Marine (responsibly sourced fish skin)
Collagen dosage per serving: 2500mg
Key features:
- Heat-stable for use in hot drinks
- Includes 30 sachets per box
- Subscribe and save delivery option
Available at:
- $134.67 at Revolve
- $106.79 at Vida Glow
- $110 at Adore Beauty
- $110 at Sephora
- $122.80 at The Iconic
Strawberry Watermelon Collagen Powder
$89 at The Collagen Co.
The best-tasting collagen powder for skin, hair and nails
With a cult following for its great-tasting collagen flavours, The Collagen Co.’s extensive range of supplements includes this refreshing Strawberry Watermelon Collagen Powder. It’s packed with potent hydrolysed collagen peptides and boasts a whopping 15,000mg of collagen, making it designed for rapid absorption.
The formula also contains vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and biotin for hydrated, clearer skin, hair growth, and stronger nails.
Mix two heaped scoops with 400ml of hot or cold water, or blend the collagen powder into your favourite smoothie recipe. Repeat twice daily for accelerated results.
Other flavours include Mixed Berry, Passionfruit Mango, Purple Grape and unflavoured. Plus, you can sign up for a subscription for 20% off your recurring deliveries.
Collagen types: I, II, and III
Collagen source: Bovine
Collagen dosage per serving: 15,000mg
Key features:
- Less than 1g sugar per serving
- Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free
- No artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners
- Subscribe and save delivery option
Miracle Collagen
From $56 at Imbibe
The best tasteless collagen powder with glowing reviews
Imbibe’s tasteless, odourless collagen powder is perfect for stirring into cold and hot drinks. Made with ethically sourced bovine collagen, it’s third-party tested to ensure it’s free from contaminants and heavy metals.
The Byron Bay-based wellness brand conducted a consumer study with 33 women aged 18-64 who took the recommended daily dose of Miracle Collagen over 12 weeks. 100% noticed improved hydration, and 97% noticed improved elasticity and radiance. 91% noticed a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. 100% noticed improved hair strength, while 94% noticed improved length. There were also improvements in cellulite appearance.
With a slew of rave reviews and impressive before-and-after photos, Imbibe’s Miracle Collagen isn’t one to sleep on. You can also choose your packaging: pouches, glass canisters, or refill bags.
Collagen type: I
Collagen source: Bovine
Collagen dosage per serving: 5000 mgs
Key features:
- Made in Australia
- Clean, sustainably sourced collagen
- Non-GMO certified
- Subscribe and save delivery option
NeoCell Grassfed Collagen Peptides + Vitamin C
From $28.27 (usually $31.41) at iHerb
The best collagen capsules for rapid absorption
With added Vitamin C to accelerate collagen absorption, these NeoCell capsules are highly rated by customers on wellness marketplace iHerb, who’ve reported healthier, glowing skin and longer hair.
Designed for easy swallowing, for optimal results, take three capsules in the morning and at night.
Collagen types: I and III
Collagen source: Bovine
Collagen dosage per serving: 6000mg
Key features:
- Available in bottles of 120 or 250 capsules
- Gluten-free and free from soy, wheat, and lactose
- Includes vitamin C for added collagen-boosting benefits
Available at:
- From $28.27 at iHerb
- From $38 at HealthPost (Collagen, Vitamin C and Biotin)
- From $25 at NeoCell
Radiance Collagen Beauty Gummies
$17.99 at Chemist Warehouse
The best low-sugar collagen gummies
Don’t like swallowing tablets or short on time to make a hot drink? These chewy, tropical-flavoured collagen gummies are seriously good, and a favourite in the Woman’s Day office.
Collagen types: I and III
Collagen source: Bovine
Collagen dosage per serving: 1360mg (two gummies)
Key features:
- Gluten and dairy-free
- 99% sugar-free
Available at:
- $38.20 from HealthPost
- $17.99 from Chemist Warehouse
- $29.99 from New World
Super Beauty Greens
$75 at The Collagen Co
The best collagen-infused green powder with added beauty benefits
A game-changer for beating that dreaded afternoon slump, this collagen greens powder boosts energy and digestion.
Popular flavours include strawberry, tropical punch, and apple blackcurrant. However, if you’re craving something more decadent or desperate for deeper sleep, try The Collagen Co.’s Collagen Dream hot chocolate.
Collagen types: I, II, and III
Collagen source: Bovine
Collagen dosage per serving: 5000mg
Key features:
- Free from gluten, dairy, and soy
- Add two scoops to hot or cold liquids
- Subscribe and save delivery option
Harmony of the Gods Beauty Collagen+
$75.30 at Hercules Supplements
The best naturally flavoured, low-calorie collagen supplement for glowing skin
These naturally flavoured marine collagen sachets provide 12,000mg of high-quality collagen peptides per serving, combined with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Niacinamide to support skin hydration, elasticity and texture. It’s recommended that you take the supplement consistently for 6 months to experience the full benefits.
Collagen type: I
Collagen source: Sustainably sourced marine collagen (from cod)
Collagen dosage per serving: 12000mg
Key features:
- Free from fillers and artificial sweeteners
- Supports skin hydration, elasticity, and firmness
- Includes Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Niacinamide for enhancing skin texture and brightness
- Naturally flavoured, 99% sugar-free, and low-calorie
Dose & Co Collagen Protein Powder
$35.99 at Chemist Warehouse
The best collagen protein powder for building lean muscle
If you love working out, Dose & Co makes a hard-working collagen protein powder that supports lean muscle development and is gentle on the stomach. Add it to your smoothies, coffee, or even baking for a wholesome treat.
Collagen types: I & III
Collagen source: Bovine
Collagen dosage per serving: 1000mg
Key features:
- Free from gluten, eggs, and nuts
- Keto-friendly formulation
Available at:
- $39.99 from New World
- $35.99 from Chemist Warehouse
Everee #4 – Post-menopause Support
$69 at Everee Women
The best collagen supplement for post-menopause support
Dark Chocolate Collagen Bar
$4.99 at Matakana Superfoods
The best collagen snack bar
Got a sweet tooth? This decadent 70% dark Ghana chocolate bar is made with marine collagen, organic cacao nibs, and dates, making it an indulgent and guilt-free treat.
Berry Collagen Buzz Energy Drink
From $2.79 at Manuka Phuel
The best collagen-infused energy drink
Infused with marine collagen, caffeine, Guarana and Ginseng and sweetened with native New Zealand multiflora Mānuka honey, this refreshing energy drink will super-charge your day.
What is collagen?
Collagen is a type of protein found in bones, muscles, skin, ligaments, and tendons that provides structural support to the body and is responsible for multiple biological functions, such as strengthening bones and maintaining skin elasticity.
As collagen plays a key role in strengthening the skin and providing support for all of our tissues, a decline in skin elasticity tends to follow a reduction in collagen production.
This is why, as we grow older, our skin isn’t as plump, and we are more prone to sagging and wrinkles. By the time we have reached the age of 60, a considerable decrease is normal, and women usually experience a dramatic reduction after menopause.
What can I consume for a collagen-rich diet?
The human body naturally produces collagen from amino acids, which we can get from a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Making sure your diet is high in nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc, and copper will also help to stimulate collagen production.
What’s the deal with collagen supplements?
Years ago, the most common form of commercial collagen was injectable fillers. Now, edible supplements can be easily purchased in tablet, capsule, and powder form.
In these forms, the collagen is hydrolysed, meaning it has been broken down into peptides to be more easily absorbed and used by the body.
Most collagen powders can be used like protein powder and added to smoothies, coffee or food.
So does taking a supplement simply top up your body’s supply, causing immediately visible results? Not quite.
By taking a supplement, you are simply ingesting the amino acids or building blocks that your body requires to produce collagen on its own.
What’s the best age to start taking collagen supplements?
Adults can supplement with collagen at any age, but should first ensure their diet isn’t lacking in collagen-rich foods before considering supplementation.
In your 20s, collagen supplements support an active lifestyle and help keep skin hydrated.
By your 30s and 40s, collagen can help address early signs of ageing and promote skin elasticity and joint health.
For those in their 50s, 60s, and beyond, as collagen levels drop during and after perimenopause and menopause, collagen may help improve the appearance of fine lines and support overall skin health.
What are the different types of collagen sources and their benefits?
There are three primary types of collagen:
- Type I: The most abundant type of collagen in the human body, it’s found in skin, hair, nails, bones, and tendons. Supplements containing Type I collagen are generally sourced from bovine or marine sources.
- Type II: Found in cartilage, Type II collagen aids joint health and mobility. Supplements are derived from sources such as chicken and bone broth.
- Type III: Often used alongside Type I in supplements and sourced from bovine, this collagen type supports skin elasticity and gut health.
Where can I shop for top-rated collagen supplements in NZ?
It depends on the type of collagen, dosage and format that best matches your health goals and lifestyle. Because everyone absorbs collagen differently, you may need to try a few products before you find one you’re happy with.
If your focus is on skin hydration, longer hair, and stronger nails, opt for a high-strength product, such as The Collagen Co.’s Collagen Powder, which includes hyaluronic acid for additional beauty benefits.
For gut health and energy, choose a collagen supplement enriched with prebiotics and probiotics, like Mister Jones’ Daily Beauty Berry.
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