Collagen supplements have exploded in popularity over the last few years. Collagen, a structural protein that provides support for a wide variety of different bodily functions, can help with everything from hair growth to joint health. You may have heard collagen supplements referred to as miracle workers for glowy skin, long nails, and perfect hair. But is there any truth to these claims? To find out, I tried a popular collagen peptides brand you might’ve already seen, thanks to the many viral reviews on social media and a glowing endorsement from Jennifer Aniston. Here were some of my biggest takeaways.
Based on all the hype, I used the popular Vital Proteins Unflavored Collagen Peptides ($31, originally $47) almost daily. For reference, collagen peptides are essentially just smaller pieces of animal collagen protein. Each two-scoop serving of the Vital Proteins collagen peptides is just 70 calories with 20 grams of collagen peptides, 18 grams of protein, and 18 amino acids. The powder I chose was also flavorless, so I could add it to pretty much anything without being able to taste it.
Depending on how much protein I needed that day, I added one or two scoops to my coffee, soups, pasta sauces, oatmeal, and/or my post-workout smoothies. Although Vital Proteins claims that this powder can be mixed into hot and cold liquids, I found it easier to blend in warm temperatures, which is why I often combined it with hot veggie soup or warmed pasta sauce. Sometimes I’d even add a scoop to a cup of hot herbal tea.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Pros
- Flavorless: Because this collagen peptides powder had no flavor, it was easy to mix into my foods or drinks. I never noticed a significant aftertaste (but for the record, this peptide powder is also available in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and lemon).
- High Protein: One of my favorite things about the collagen peptides powder was that it added a hearty dose of protein to anything I ate or drank throughout the day (nearly 20 grams of protein per serving). Beyond all the other health benefits, it transformed something as simple as a black coffee or low-protein soup into something much more satiating, keeping me full for longer. This would be a great option for anyone looking to replace their current protein powder, or switch to something with additional health benefits.
- Hair, Skin, and Nails: It’s too early to tell if this collagen powder had a definitive effect on my hair, skin, and/or nails, but I liked knowing that there could potentially be some long-term benefits for hair growth, skin elasticity, and nail strength.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Cons
- Temperature-Dependent: I noticed this powder didn’t dissolve well in cold or room-temperature liquids. For best results, I’d recommend combining with warmer liquids.
- Not Vegan: Collagen peptides are, of course, derived from animal proteins. While it’s gluten-free, it’s sadly not vegan-friendly, as the proteins are sourced from the hides of pasture-raised cows.
What to Note
With over 48,000 five-star reviews, I’m not the only one who enjoyed Vital Proteins collagen peptides. “After incorporating this collagen powder into my diet, my hair has become noticeably shinier and stronger, my skin feels more hydrated and youthful, and my nails have stopped breaking as easily,” one reviewer wrote. “On top of that, my joints feel more flexible and less prone to stiffness, especially after workouts or long periods of sitting.” That said, it’s important to remember this powder isn’t a miracle product.
As experts previously explained to PS, although collagen may be helpful (depending on the quality of ingredients and your body’s ability to absorb them), more research is needed to prove the overall efficacy of collagen supplements. Plus, collagen supplements are not currently approved or regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means it’s crucial to do your own research. Talk with your doctor before starting any new supplements to see what’s right for you.
If you do decide to introduce collagen into your routine, Vital Proteins Unflavored Collagen Peptides also come in stick packs ($27, originally $39), which are great for travel. As an added bonus, both products are currently on sale in honor of Amazon’s October Prime Day. If you’re interested in collagen peptides, shop now to save on a supplement that’ll help you look and feel your best.
— Additional reporting by Chandler Plante
Christina Stiehl is a former senior editor for PS Fitness. She is a writer, editor, and content strategist with more than 10 years of professional journalism experience, the last six of which have been focused in the health, fitness, and wellness space. Her work has appeared in SELF, VICE, SHAPE, Men’s Health, Thrillist, and more.
Chandler Plante is an assistant editor for PS Health and Fitness. She has over four years of professional journalism experience, previously working as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributing to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group. In her free time, she enjoys finding new ways to rock her 18(!) different eye patches, and making videos about chronic illness, beauty, and disability.
