2025 has brought a wave of new health and wellness buzzwords, but sometimes the most powerful solutions are those that are tried, tested, and true.

Collagen is certainly one of those.

Collagen supplements have been a staple in the supplement and beauty space for many years, primarily due to the science behind the importance of this vital protein for skin health. But more recently, researchers have uncovered some surprising benefits of collagen. (Spoiler: these findings extend far beyond skin and joint health.)

Collagen is proving to be one of the most versatile and vital proteins for overall wellness.

That's the good news. The bad? If you're over 25 (even younger in some cases), you're already losing it, and there are limited ways to boost production and slow further loss, quality collagen supplements being one. 

With all this new research revealing collagen's unexpected roles in whole-body health, there's never been a better time to understand the science behind collagen and what collagen supplements can do for you. Let's dive in! 

What is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, making up about 30% of your total protein content. It's found in your skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and more, providing structure and support to your body's tissues.

Think of it as the "glue" that holds you together (fun fact: the word collagen actually comes from the Greek word "kólla," which means glue). That is a really simple analogy; collagen is actually much more sophisticated than that.

Collagen is a very important protein that provides structure to your:

• Skin (where about 75% of your collagen lives)

• Bones (helping them stay strong and flexible)

• Muscles (supporting their structure and helping with repair)

• Tendons and ligaments (keeping them elastic and resilient)

• Blood vessels (maintaining their strength and flexibility)

• Organs (providing structural support and maintaining tissue integrity)

• Digestive system (supporting gut lining and promoting healthy digestion)

• Nervous system (supporting nerve tissue health and function)

This explains why many healthcare professionals use collagen in the medical field to treat wounds, burns, and diabetic ulcers and why cosmetics companies use collagen in products like moisturizers and serums. Collagen also plays a vital role in many cellular processes, such as immune response and cellular communication. 

So, yes, collagen loss is the primary reason we get wrinkles and saggy skin, but as you can see, there is a laundry list of reasons why collagen is essential for your overall health. 

Collagen supports your entire body's structural integrity. Science has discovered that your heart, brain, joints, tendons, gut, and virtually every organ in your body all depend on adequate collagen levels to function properly.

However, natural collagen production starts declining around age 25-30 (yes, that early), dropping around 1-1.5% each year after that. This decline is usually more drastic if you're exposed to excessive sun, smoke, follow a poor diet, or experience high levels of stress. 

Some autoimmune conditions and genetic mutations are also believed to damage collagen.

While you may be unable to bring back lost collagen, there are ways to help get things moving and slow further loss. This process is much harder with age, but you are never too old to actively support collagen production. We will tell you science-backed ways to boost your collagen levels in detail a little further down.

First, it is helpful to understand the different types of collagen your body needs and their role in your body so you can determine what type of collagen supplement is best for your specific concerns.

Different Types of Collagen

It's believed that the human body contains at least 28 different types of collagen, each with its own unique role. But when we talk about collagen in food or supplements, we're usually focusing on types I, II, and III. These are the most abundant in your body and the most studied for their benefits.

Type I Collagen

This is the king of collagen, making up about 90% of your body's collagen. It forms tight, strong fibers that give structure to your skin, bones, tendons, and fibrous cartilage. It's also the type that helps keep your skin firm and elastic.

Type I collagen is what is found in most anti-aging products and the one that beauty enthusiasts get excited about. But it is also essential for maintaining the strength and flexibility of your bones, ligaments, and other connective tissues.

In fact, when it comes to bone health, Type I collagen provides the framework that allows calcium and other minerals to build strong, resilient bones.

Type II Collagen

While not as abundant as Type I, Type II collagen is just as crucial. It is the main component of your articular cartilage, the stuff that cushions your joints.

If you're active or into fitness, have achy joints, or are just trying to stay mobile as you age, this is the type you'll want to pay attention to.

Type III Collagen

Working hand-in-hand with Type I, Type III collagen helps give structure to your organs, skin, and blood vessels. It essentially supports Type I's foundation.

Type III collagen seems to be particularly important in keeping your skin bouncy and youthful. There are also exciting new discoveries that might make it beneficial for cardiovascular health.

Other Collagen Terms That Are Important To Understand

In addition to the different types of collagen, you will also see other words pop up, such as bovine, peptides, or undenatured. These are words that you should understand to be able to make an informed decision about what collagen supplement is best for you. 

Here are some brief explanations of some common words you might see when looking at labels or website descriptions of collagen supplements:

Bovine Collagen

This is collagen sourced from cows, typically from their hide or bones. It offers unique and broad benefits because it is rich in both Types I and III collagen and has a comprehensive amino acid profile. This makes bovine collagen a superior choice for numerous bodily functions— especially skin, bone, and joint health. 

Bovine is also generally more affordable and widely available and offers an alternative for people with fish allergies. When you purchase a collagen sourced from bovine, you might also see "grass-fed bovine collagen" on a label. That indicates the cows were pasture-raised.

Marine Collagen

Sourced from fish scales and skin, marine collagen is rich in Type 1 collagen. It is a popular choice for those who follow a pescatarian diet and do not eat other meat sources.

It is known for having smaller particles than bovine collagen. Some believe this might make it easier to absorb, but little research backs this claim. 

Porcine Collagen

This comes from pigs and is similar in structure to human collagen. It's particularly rich in Type III collagen and is most often used in medical applications.

Bioavailability

You'll see this term often – it refers to how well your body can absorb and use collagen. Higher bioavailability means better absorption and more benefits from your supplement.

Collagen Peptides (Hydrolyzed Collagen)

Also called hydrolyzed collagen, collagen peptides are smaller pieces of collagen that have been broken down through a process called hydrolysis. You can think of it as pre-digested collagen.

This is actually really important to look for when purchasing a collagen supplement because our bodies cannot absorb collagen in its whole form. It must first be broken down into peptides so it can be absorbed through the gut.

Collagen peptides are easier for your body to absorb and put to use. When you see "collagen peptides" on a label, you're getting collagen that's ready for your body to use efficiently (more bioavailable.)

Undenatured

This means the collagen has had nothing done to it; it's in its purest form. This also means it hasn't been broken down into peptides.

Limited research suggests undenatured Type II collagen might have unique benefits for joint health when taken in small amounts. However, when it comes to overall collagen supplementation, peptides are generally considered the gold standard.

Most high-quality collagen supplements, including ours, use collagen peptides because they're more efficient at getting the job done.

The Growing Benefits of Collagen

Research continues to reveal more reasons our bodies need collagen and could benefit from taking collagen supplements-- from widely known skin improvements to joint health, as well as some surprising effects on brain function, cardiovascular health, and more. 

While individual results can vary, here's why science tells us getting enough collagen is important:

Helps to Slow Skin Aging

As we age and collagen production declines, our skin loses its firmness and elasticity. Research shows that collagen supplementation can help support skin hydration and elasticity while reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

An analysis of 19 studies involving 1,125 participants of a wide age range (20-70) found that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation led to noticeable improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction compared to a placebo.

Additionally, several other studies suggest collagen supplements can enhance skin moisture, boost elasticity, and minimize wrinkles.

Stronger Hair and Nails

Your hair and nails are made primarily of keratin, a protein that requires specific amino acids to stay strong and healthy. Collagen supplementation provides many of these essential building blocks.

Studies indicate that taking collagen may support nail growth and reduce brittleness while potentially promoting healthier, stronger hair.

Improved Gut Health and Digestion

The tissue lining your digestive tract contains collagen, which plays a vital role in gut health. Collagen provides amino acids that may help maintain the integrity of your intestinal lining. Research suggests that collagen supplementation could potentially support digestive health and help maintain a healthy gut barrier. 

Expert Tip: If gut health is a priority for you (if it’s not, hyperlink doesn’t contain all lettersit should be) – we have an entire line of gut health supplements formulated by doctors with ingredients shown to support gut health and digestive function.

Better Bones

Your bones are made mostly of collagen, which provides the framework calcium builds upon. Studies suggest collagen peptides may support bone density and strength, particularly when combined with calcium and vitamin D supplementation. This could be especially relevant for those concerned about bone health as they age.

Improved Body Composition

Researchers discovered that the combination of resistance exercise and collagen peptide supplementation resulted in a significant increase in muscle mass and a decrease in fat mass compared with placebo. In addition, muscular strength was significantly improved after collagen peptide intake compared with the training program plus placebo.

Expert Tip: Another great way to support better body composition is to lower stress levels and get plenty of quality sleep. Relive Calm +, Cortisol Support, Ashwagandha KSM-66,  Magnesium Glycinate, and Sleep are all great choices to consider.

Better Mobility

Maintaining healthy collagen levels could support overall mobility and flexibility. Research indicates that collagen supplementation, when combined with regular exercise, may help maintain range of motion and support comfortable movement throughout daily activities.

Joint and Tendon Support

Collagen is a major component of your joints and tendons. Research indicates that collagen supplementation may help maintain the integrity of these tissues, potentially supporting overall joint health and comfort, and many athletes and active individuals report improvements in recovery when consistently incorporating collagen into their routines. 

Joint Pain Relief

Studies suggest collagen supplementation may help reduce joint discomfort and stiffness, particularly in people who exercise regularly or experience age-related joint issues. Research has shown potential improvements in joint function and reduced pain after consistent collagen supplementation.

Expert Tip: If you are really looking to improve joint health, this joint support supplement is one to consider. It contains collagen and other ingredients that provide comprehensive support for cartilage repair, lubrication, and inflammation reduction.

Another great supplement for your joints (and really your overall health including your hormones and brain health ) is a quality Omega-3 supplement. 

Supports Heart Health

Collagen provides structure to your blood vessels. While more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that maintaining healthy collagen levels may support cardiovascular health by helping maintain the integrity of artery walls.

Expert Tip: While the science is promising for collagens' role in heart health, if heart health is a top priority for you, check out this heart supplement. It is made with 5 different ingredients that have science-backed cardiotonic properties, as well as vitamins that are crucial for cardiovascular health. 

Better Brain Health

Recent research has begun exploring collagen's potential role in brain health. While most studies are still in early stages, some evidence suggests that certain amino acids found in collagen may support cognitive function and overall brain health. Scientists are particularly interested in collagen's potential protective properties for neural tissues.

Expert Tip:  If you are looking for a supplement with more in-depth clinically studied ingredients for brain health, check out Brain+. It is doctor-approved and formulated with carefully selected, clinically researched ingredients that support mental energy, focus, and cognitive resilience.

How to Ensure You Get Enough Collagen

Your body is constantly producing collagen, but several factors can slow this process or 

make it less efficient.

Age, excess sun exposure, smoking, poor sleep, high sugar intake, and even that nightly glass of wine can all interfere with collagen production. Stress is another major culprit. When you're stressed, your body produces cortisol, which can break down collagen faster than normal.

There are two main ways to support your body's collagen levels: your diet and collagen supplementation. Let's look at how you can incorporate both options.

Diet

While your body can produce collagen on its own, it needs specific nutrients to do so effectively. Foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and protein are particularly important for collagen synthesis.

Eating a diet rich in beneficial plant compounds (e.g., flavonoids and carotenoids) may also support skin health by minimizing inflammation and helping to preserve collagen.

However, getting collagen directly from food isn't as straightforward as you might think. 

For example, bone broth is often touted as a collagen superfood, and while it does contain some collagen, the amounts and types can vary greatly. Other foods like chicken skin, fish skin, and egg membranes also contain collagen, but the collagen they provide isn't necessarily in a form your body can easily use.

Plus, if you're trying to get enough collagen through diet alone, you'd need to consume these specific parts of animals regularly – something that isn't practical for most people's lifestyles or dietary preferences.

This is where collagen supplements come in— specifically, hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides. 

Collagen Supplements

Unlike dietary collagen, quality collagen supplements sourced from bovine and in peptide form are specifically processed to be easily absorbed by your body. They're broken down into smaller peptides that can actually make it into your bloodstream and be used where needed.

Bovine collagen peptides are particularly valuable because they're rich in Types I and III collagen – the types most abundant in your body and most crucial for skin, bone, and tissue health. They're also incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

Our collagen supplement, Revive Collapure, supplies 12 grams of 100% Grass-Fed Collagen sourced from pasture-raised cows (bovine) and provides all three types of collagen that form the major components of skin, hair, nails, bones, and tendons. It is also hydrolyzed (a collagen peptide), ensuring better absorption and maximum benefits.

By the way, if you've been taking not sure if we can mention this? I’d defer to HannahRevive Collagen for a while and are wondering if this is a new collagen product, it's not. It is the same great formula; it just has a new look and name.

Collapure is a powder that dissolves completely in both hot and cold liquids, with no clumping and zero taste. It comes in a delicious chocolate flavor but is also available in unflavored form. This means you can add a scoop to:

• Your morning coffee or tea

• Smoothies and protein shakes

• Oatmeal or yogurt

• Soup or sauce recipes

• Simple water (yes, really – you won't taste it!)

It really doesn't matter how you take our collagen peptides as long as you do so consistently. Taking collagen supplements sporadically won't give you the results you're looking for. However, incorporating them into your daily routine can help support your body's collagen needs in a way that diet alone typically can't.

Conclusion

Collagen is a protein your body must have to maintain everything from skin elasticity to joint health, so it is important to do what you can to ensure optimal collagen levels throughout your life, especially as you age and natural production declines.

While collagen supplements aren't a magic solution, they're one of the most efficient ways to support your body's collagen levels. Ideally, you should start taking collagen in your mid-to-late 20s when it first starts to naturally decrease. But as we mentioned earlier, it is never too late to start!

If you haven't tried our collagen yet, check it out. Like the rest of Revive products, Collapure is made with the highest-quality natural ingredients. It is also lab-tested and formulated with the help of medical professionals to guarantee you are purchasing the best collagen peptide supplement on the market.

Remember, investing in your collagen levels isn't just about maintaining youthful skin – it's about supporting your body's fundamental structure for years to come.

Whether you're an athlete wanting to enhance performance,  at an age where you are looking to support joint health, someone concerned about skin health and aging gracefully, or simply want to maintain your overall wellness, collagen supplements like Collapure are a valuable addition to your daily routine.