I don’t take collagen myself — it’s never been part of my personal routine. But several friends my age have, and watching their experiences while doing my own research has taught me a lot about what actually matters when it comes to collagen supplements. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth trying, here’s what I’d tell a close friend.
Why People Start Taking Collagen
Most of the women I know who started taking collagen were dealing with the gradual joint aches that tend to accumulate in our 50s and 60s. One friend in particular — who’d had trouble with her knees for years — started taking a collagen supplement and noticed real improvement going down stairs within about six weeks. That kind of firsthand observation is hard to ignore.
The Different Types — And Why It Matters
Here’s where it gets confusing, and where a lot of people waste money early on.
Type I and III — the most common. They support skin, hair, nails, tendons, and ligaments. Most “beauty collagen” products are Type I and III.
Type II — what you want for joint support. It’s the collagen found in cartilage. If joint comfort is your goal, make sure you’re getting Type II, not just a beauty blend.
The friend I mentioned? She was taking a popular Type I and III powder for months before switching to one that included Type II. The difference for her joints was noticeable.
What to Look For
- “Hydrolyzed” or “collagen peptides” — broken down for better absorption
- Includes Type II alongside Type I and III for joint benefits
- Minimal ingredients — you don’t need additives
- Grass-fed bovine or marine source
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is one well-regarded option. For more targeted joint support, Sports Research Collagen Peptides (Type I, II, and III) is another solid choice.
Realistic Expectations
Collagen may help with: joint comfort and mobility (especially Type II), skin elasticity, nail strength, tendons and ligaments.
What collagen probably won’t do: reverse arthritis, work overnight (give it 8–12 weeks), or replace treatment for real injuries.
What I Do Take — And Why
While collagen isn’t in my lineup, I’ve been taking Krill Oil (Mega Red) for years. Krill oil delivers omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and inflammation — and research suggests it may be more bioavailable than standard fish oil. I’ve also taken Ubiquinol CoQ-10 for years. Ubiquinol is the active, reduced form of CoQ-10 and becomes especially important as we age, since our bodies produce less of it naturally.
I only recommend products I’ve personally researched or whose use I can vouch for. Affiliate links on this page help support the site at no extra cost to you.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician or healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement regimen, especially if you are currently taking prescription medications or have an existing medical condition.