The 6 Best Collagen Powders, According to an Expert

My introduction to collagen powders and supplements came courtesy of fitness influencers and YouTubers who sprinkled a spoon into their morning shakes. I read all the claims; Collagen is said to improve the skin’s elasticity and slow signs of aging, which was enough for me to run to Target to buy my first tub, but I was still skeptical. After speaking to a registered dietician about the fitness world’s favorite ingredient, I understand the hype.

“Collagen is a form of protein that helps to provide structure to different tissues of the body, like ligaments, tendons, and bone, and is also responsible for the elasticity in the skin,” Melissa Rifkin, MS, RD, CDN, tells ELLE.com. Our bodies naturally produce their own collagen, but “this process starts to slow with age. Collagen production is thought to slow in the mid-’20s, which may be a good time to start taking supplemental forms of collagen or collagen-promoting supplements.” Don’t worry, collagen can be consumed daily.

“Consuming collagen will contribute to your overall protein intake for the day while providing the unique characteristics of collagen that benefit connective tissue, skin, and bone health,” she adds. A general rule of thumb? Be wary of products with unfamiliar ingredient lists. “As with most supplements, a lengthy ingredient list filled with unfamiliar names is likely not the best quality option and often contains preservatives, additives, and other suspect ingredients,” she adds. Best served when mixed in a smoothie or coffee, finding collagen powders that taste good, provide great benefits, and contain clean ingredients is no easy feat. Ahead, the seven best collagen powders to try now, including a few expert-approved products.