What Are The Best Collagen Drinks On The Market, According To Dietitians
Discover the top 5 most effective collagen drinks on the market to reduce signs of aging and give your skin a healthy glow
- Reviewed and fact-checked by certified dietitians.
In this guide:
- Are collagen drinks effective to make the skin look younger?
- Why you may want to opt for a collagen drink instead of a collagen supplement
- The top 5 most effective collagen drinks on the market today, according to dietitians
Collagen products are everywhere. They all claim to boost your collagen reserves and give your skin a youthful glow, while reducing wrinkles and fine lines. But among all these beauty products, a new category is currently taking the market by storm: the so-called “collagen drinks”.
These drinks are supposed to come with the same benefits as collagen supplements (supple, firm, glowing skin) except: they can be drunk “on the go” (no preparation required), they taste better, and they’re allegedly packed with other beauty ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
With so many collagen drinks on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones to trust and choose. In this article, we’ll try to address the following questions: do collagen drinks work, or is it just another marketing scam? How do they compare vs normal collagen supplements? Which are the most effective collagen drinks on the market for quick and visible results?
Our guide has been carefully reviewed by professional dieticians and dermatologists, to ensure high-quality and accurate information.
What is collagen and why is it important?
If you’re interested in collagen drinks, you probably already know what collagen is, but a quick reminder doesn’t hurt: simply put, collagen is the most important protein in your body that’s responsible for keeping your skin cells together.
~70-80%
of your skin is made of collagen, and high levels of collagen is essential to keep your skin firm, supple, and smooth.
When your collagen levels are declining (collagen declines by 1.5% every year after 25), the skin slowly loses its glowy, plump, youthful appearance. By the age of 40, your skin has lost about 25% of its collagen reserves, which is why you see wrinkles appearing, skin sagging, and a duller skin complexion.
The good news is: it’s possible to increase your collagen levels at any age, and restore your skin’s plumpness, elasticity, and youthful glow (to a certain degree of course).
That’s where collagen drinks come into play.
Are collagen drinks really effective?
Many people are wondering if collagen drinks and supplements actually work to make the skin look younger, or if they’re just another marketing scam.
According to several placebo-controlled clinical studies, collagen products can indeed improve the skin texture, appearance, and perceived age, by stimulating collagen and elastin production in skin cells. (But not all collagen products are created equal, as we’ll see later in this article.)
- A large clinical review of 19 studies comprising a total of 1,125 participants, published in the International Journal of Dermatology, showed that those who used collagen supplementation saw a significant improvement in the firmness, suppleness and hydration of the skin. A reduction in wrinkles and fine lines was also observed. 1
- Another study has found that taking collagen peptide drinks with 0.5% concentration could increase relative skin collagen production by over 19% in 48 hours. The story concluded that: “The results of cell behaviors indicate that the collagen drink could improve cell viability as well as promote collagen and elastin synthesis.” 2
- A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that 12 weeks of marine collagen supplementation produced a 24% greater reduction in face wrinkles compared to placebo. 3
Compared to placebo, female participants reported a 15% greater reduction in wrinkles, 23% improvement in skin elasticity, 22% improvement in radiance, and 25% improvement in skin firmness.
What doctors say about collagen drinks
Further, according to skin specialists, taking higher doses of collagen doesn’t mean that it’ll be more effective to make your skin look younger.
Why? Because our body has a limited capacity for absorbing and making use of collagen peptides.
I initially thought it was just a scam. Then we started researching it and there actually is some evidence that they can improve skin tone, skin texture, skin elasticity – which are the things that we lose as we get older.
Gary Goldenberg
Assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai hospital in New York City.
I initially thought it was just a scam. Then we started researching it and there actually is some evidence that they can improve skin tone, skin texture, skin elasticity – which are the things that we lose as we get older.
Dr Ahmed El Muntasar
GP and award-winning Aesthetician
3 reasons to choose a collagen drink instead of a collagen powder
Reason #1: Unlike collagen powders, collagen drinks have no bad aftertaste
A major issue with most collagen powders is that they usually don’t taste very good. Even if they are blended with juices, coffee, or tea, they typically come with a strong aftertaste that can be very repelling for many people.
Why is it the case? Because the majority of collagen powders are made from the bone of cows, and it’s almost impossible to remove the strong taste even with extensive chemical processing.
The benefit of collagen drinks is that they contain “liquid collagen” – ultra-fine collagen particles that are already perfectly mixed in the drink. Further, the collagen drinks are usually blending collagen with other tasty ingredients, including fruit juices, fresh botanical extracts, and natural ingredients that taste good.
That means that you can not only boost your collagen reserves with a collagen drink, but also truly enjoy a delicious and refreshing drinking experience.
Reason #2: Collagen drinks are just as effective as collagen powders to boost skin collagen
One of the concerns of many people is to think that collagen drinks are not as effective as collagen powders. Not necessarily true. Studies suggest that some collagen drinks can be just as effective to boost collagen content.
Dr. Justine Kluk, a London-based dermatologist and member of the Royal Society of Medicine and the British Association of Dermatologist, explains that the collagen contained in these drinks are very quickly absorbed by the skin:
The collagen peptides in these drinks are reportedly digested into smaller molecules and then absorbed in our gut. They've been shown to appear one hour after ingestion in the bloodstream.
Investigations have demonstrated that these absorbed peptides can reach the skin and may be retained in the tissue for up to two weeks.
Further, according to skin specialists, taking higher doses of collagen doesn’t mean that it’ll be more effective to make your skin look younger.
Why? Because our body has a limited capacity for absorbing and making use of collagen peptides.
2.5 - 10 grams
a daily dose of collagen peptides science recommends for optimal results.
That means that a drink with 5 grams of collagen can be just as effective in making the skin glow from the inside out than a heavy dose of 20 grams of collagen peptides. In fact, the collagen drink can even be more effective if it contains other skincare ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and biotin for example.
Reason #3: Collagen drinks require no preparation, making them a more convenient option
One obvious benefit of collagen drinks is that they can be taken “on the go”: you don’t need to spend time mixing a powder into a cup of tea, the drink is already ready for consumption. This makes it a more convenient option for people with a busy lifestyle, who just want to grab and drink their collagen as fast and conveniently as possible.
What are the key things to look for in a high-quality collagen drink, according to dietitians
Criteria #1
Look for other ingredients that improve skin appearance, such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid
It’s not because it’s called “collagen drink” that it should only contain collagen! The most effective and fast-acting collagen drinks typically contain other ingredients that help promote a more youthful, supple skin.
According to experts, you may want to look for these other alternative ingredients for additional efficacy:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Vitamin C
- Biotin
- Zinc
Some collagen drinks also contain special proprietary ingredients that can be even more powerful than collagen to make the skin glow – but these also tend to be more expensive products.
Criteria #2
Prefer marine collagen over bovine collagen
Marine collagen is a type of collagen extracted from fish living in cold water. Due to its smaller particle size, marine collagen is absorbed up to 1.5 times more efficiently into the body compared to bovine or porcine collagen. This makes it the most “bioavailable” form of collagen you can buy.
1.5x better
absorption has marine collagen than any other forms of collagen
Further, marine collagen is also the highest-quality source of collagen type I – which makes up 80% of our skin. For these reasons, skincare specialists tend to recommend choosing drinks that contain marine collagen for optimal results.
Criteria #3
Choose a collagen with low molecular weight for optimal absorption
To make it simple: the smaller the collagen molecules, the higher the absorption into the skin. To ensure that your skin gets the strongest possible collagen boost, the drink should contain collagen that has a “low molecular weight”. This basically means that collagen particles are very small and more easily absorbed.
The weight of collagen molecules is expressed in daltons (Da). The average collagen molecule weighs about 30,000 Da. For optimal absorption into the skin, it’s recommended to choose low-weight collagen peptides with a weight under 6,000 Da. The lower, the better.
Criteria #4
Make sure it contains zero additives or artificial sweeteners
The problem with collagen drinks is that they’re filled with additives and artificial sweeteners, which can be damaging to your health over the long run. Artificial sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame have been found to cause…
Many collagen drinks sold on the market today contain these harmful sweeteners, so it’s important to be very careful when choosing a drink. The beauty of your skin shouldn’t come at the cost of your health.
For a great taste without compromising your health, dietitians recommend choosing collagen drinks that are sweetened with either natural sugar from fruits, or stevia – a natural sweetener that is completely safe.
What to avoid in collagen drinks:
High in sugar
Contains big collagen molecules with high molecular weight
Contains only collagen with no other ingredients
Contains artificial sweeteners such as sucralose or aspartame
Contains ingredients that have not been proven by clinical studies
The Top 5 Best Collagen Drinks On The Market Today, According To Dietitians
To help you choose a collagen drink that will bring you a visible improvement in skin texture and appearance, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 best collagen drinks on the market. This list was carefully curated in partnership with certified dietitians, and takes several factors into consideration, including: ingredients quality, beauty score, taste, value for money, and verified customer reviews.
#1
Alpine Bliss Japanese Beauty Formula
Pros:
- Uses high-grade marine collagen in optimal dose with very low molecular weight (2,000 Da)
- Tasty and refreshing, according to users
- Contains ceramides from Japanese peaches, adding further skincare benefits
- Low in sugar and calories
- Contains a variety of skincare ingredients other than collagen, including vitamins, zinc, and hyaluronic acid
- No sucralose or aspartame
Cons:
- Expensive
- Frequently out of stock due to limited production
The Alpine Bliss Japanese Beauty Formula is a potent collagen drink containing high-concentration natural beauty ingredients, and pure alpine water sourced from the European Alps.
The formula contains 1 gram of concentrated marine collagen with a very low molecular weight of 2,000 Da, which is 15 times smaller than the average collagen molecule. This allows for optimal collagen absorption into the skin, multiplying the skin lifting effect.
While 1 gram may not seem like much, the extremely high absorption of this microscopic form of collagen produces a skin plumping effect that is normally only seen with much higher doses of collagen. Thanks to this precise dosage, the drink has no collagen aftertaste (which is quite hard to achieve) while giving the skin a strong collagen boost.
But the real specificity of this drink is to infuse the skin with a high dose of “ceramides” from the Japanese White Peach: a rare variety of peach that contains two times more ceramides than any other fruits. Ceramides are key building blocks of the skin that are responsible, along with collagen, for keeping the skin supple, glowy and youthful. Clinical studies suggest that these peach ceramides used in Alpine Bliss can make the skin visibly smoother, firmer and brighter within 20 days.
To make the drink even more effective in making the skin glow, the company added several other high-quality consumable beauty ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and zinc. All these ingredients combined together help remove skin imperfections, reduce signs of aging, and promote a visibly younger looking skin.
From a nutrition standpoint, the drink is also scoring pretty well. The formula contains zero added sugar and only 4 grams of natural sugar from white peaches. It doesn’t contain any harmful artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame. The sweet taste comes from the natural sugar of peaches and an appropriate dose of stevia.
Beyond its functional health benefits, the Alpine Bliss formula also performs well on taste, according to consumers. Users praise its fruity white peach flavor and refreshing fine bubbles.
On the minus side, we note that the drink is quite expensive ($3.95 per can) – which can be explained by the “fancy” ingredients that it contains, including extracts of saffron and ginger roots (some of the most expensive spices in the world). We also note that the drink is frequently out of stock, because it’s produced in limited batches as of now.
Taking all of this into consideration puts Alpine Bliss Japanese Beauty Formula in our #1 spot.
#2
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Water
Pros:
- Strong dose of collagen
- Made with clean water and real fruit juice
- Promote higher skin firmness, radiance, and hydration
- Low in sugar and calories
- Reputable brand well established in collagen products
Cons:
- Made with bovine collagen, not marine collagen
- Aftertaste may be a problem for sensitive palates
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Water is a collagen-infused beverage that aims to provide the benefits of collagen in a convenient and refreshing way.
With approximately 10 grams of collagen sourced from bovine, it offers a substantial dose that can contribute to the overall health and texture of your skin. The drink has been proven to mitigate signs of aging, correct skin imperfection, and give the skin a brighter, glowy look.
Moreover, Vital Proteins is a reputable brand known for its focus on collagen products. This adds credibility and assurance to the quality and effectiveness of the collagen peptides water. When it comes to taste, this beverage incorporates clean water and real fruit juice, providing a refreshing and flavorful experience. With a variety of flavors available, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences.
The product also boasts low sugar and calorie content, making it a suitable choice for those who are mindful of their sugar intake and caloric consumption. This can be particularly appealing to individuals looking for a healthier alternative to sugary beverages.
However, it’s worth noting that this collagen water is made from bovine collagen rather than marine collagen. While bovine collagen can still offer benefits, marine collagen is believed to have higher absorption rates.
Additionally, some consumers have reported a more pronounced aftertaste with this product, which is something to consider if you are sensitive to such flavors.
#3
Skinade
Pros:
- Contains a strong dose of high-grade marine collagen
- Rich in vitamins
- Help improve collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in the skin
- No artificial colourings
- Visibly reduces signs of aging
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Not the best tasting option, according to users
Skinade is a skincare beverage that aims to enhance the appearance of your skin by providing a potent dose of collagen sourced from marine sources.
With approximately 7 grams of fish collagen, this product offers a substantial amount that can potentially support the health and vitality of your skin. Users have reported some good results in terms of improvement in skin texture, radiance, and overall appearance.
Moreover, Skinade is backed by a reputable skincare brand that has established itself in the collagen products market.
In addition to its focus on collagen, Skinade also claims to promote nail and hair growth thanks to its combination of healthy ingredients, which includes collagen and plenty of vitamins. This could be an appealing aspect for those seeking comprehensive skincare support.
An advantage worth noting is that Skinade does not contain any artificial colorings, which may be appealing to those who prefer products with minimal artificial additives.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Skinade is relatively high in calories, with each serving containing 35 calories.
The first drawback is the price point which we find too high compared to other drinks of similar quality. Skinade is considered a premium product, and its high cost can be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers. Considering its efficacy, we do find its very high price unwarranted, which is why this product, albeit of good quality, is ranked number 3 in our top 5. Lastly, taste is subjective, but according to user feedback, some individuals feel that the taste of Skinade could be improved as there is currently a “fishy” aftertaste. This unpleasant aftertaste may occur in any drink that contains more than 2-3 grams of collagen per can.
#4
Shiseido EXR Collagen Drink
Pros:
- High-quality collagen formula promoting strong skin, hair, and nail health
- Contains only high-grade collagen from marine sources
- Reputable brand with strong track record
- Strengthen with ceramides and hyaluronic acid for enhanced lifting effect
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Mild fish aftertaste which may be an issue for sensitive users
The Shiseido EXR Collagen Drink is a high-quality skincare product offered by a reputable company with a strong track record in the beauty industry, particularly in Japan.
It contains 1 gram of high-grade collagen sourced from marine sources, known for their effectiveness in boosting collagen reserves – particularly type I collagen. This collagen infusion is designed to help achieve plumper and more radiant skin. While 1 gram may not seem much, it’s more than enough to produce a visible effect on the skin, especially if it’s from marine sources.
In addition to collagen, the formula of Shiseido EXR Collagen Drink is fortified with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients work together to optimize skin hydration, which can contribute to overall skin health and vitality.
Furthermore, the drink is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, providing additional benefits to the skin. It contains cowberry, amla fruit, and key vitamins known for their potential positive anti-aging effects on the skin.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the Shiseido EXR Collagen Drink falls into the very expensive price range, which may be a limiting factor for budget-conscious consumers.
Furthermore, some users have reported a mild “fishy taste” associated with the drink. While taste preferences can vary, this could be an issue for those with sensitive palates.
#5
H&B Expert Liquid Collagen
Pros:
- Reputable brand
- Contains only low molecular weight collagen peptides for optimal absorption into the skin
- Contains high-quality marine collagen, promoting a plumper, more hydrated skin
- Rich blends of ingredients which includes collagen, vitamin C and zinc
Cons:
- Cannot be drunk “on the go”. Sachet that needs to be mixed with water. Not as convenient as other collagen drinks
- Expensive
- Orange flavour may seem artificial for some users
One of the key aspects of this H&B Expert Liquid Collagen is its utilization of a strong form of marine collagen, which is widely considered the best source of collagen for skin regeneration. With this low molecular weight collagen, H&B Expert Liquid Collagen aims to promote plumper and more hydrated skin, targeting common concerns related to skin aging.
Moreover, H&B Expert Liquid Collagen contains a rich blend of ingredients, including collagen, vitamin C, and zinc. These additional components may contribute to the overall effectiveness of the product and provide additional skin benefits.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the price of H&B Expert Liquid Collagen falls on the expensive side, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious people.
Further, some users have noted that the orange flavor of the drink may come across as slightly artificial.
Additionally, it’s important to note that H&B Expert Liquid Collagen comes in a powdered form in a sachet, requiring you to mix it with water. This means it cannot be conveniently consumed on the go, which might be a limitation for individuals seeking a more portable option.