Do Collagen Supplements Work?

So... Do collagen supplements really work? Let's separate the facts from fad-fiction.

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Collagen supplements are everywhere. From powders and pills to relentless social media campaigns and celeb endorsements: they promise glowing skin, stronger hair, and youthful joints.

Let’s dive into what the science really says about collagen supplements…


What Is Collagen, and Why Do We Need It?

Collagen Illustration
Illustration of the difference between collagen in young & aging skin

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It keeps your skin firm, your joints cushioned and your hair and nails strong. It’s basically the scaffolding that holds everything together.

Sounds Great! So, what’s the’s catch?

Collagen production begins to decline when you are around 25 years old and continues to decrease at an increasing rate for the remainder of your life. This natural drop off is exactly why collagen supplements have exploded in popularity – people are looking for ways to top up their levels and keep skin, joints, and hair in tip-top shape.

Try Our Collagen Calculator!

Curious where your collagen levels might be right now? Try our free Collagen Calculator to get a personalised estimate!

Collagen Calculator

But even if you’re running low, the real question is: Do collagen supplements actually work the way you think they do?


The Problem With Traditional Collagen Supplements

collagen supplements on a table

Most collagen supplements come from animal sources:

  • 🐮 Bovine (cow)
  • 🐟 Marine (fish)
  • 🐷 Porcine (pig)

These products contain hydrolysed collagen, broken-down proteins that are easier to absorb. But here’s the reality: your body doesn’t absorb collagen and send it straight to your skin or joints. It digests collagen just like any other protein.

Scientific reviews have shown mixed or minimal benefits when it comes to animal-derived collagen improving skin or joint health.

So if eating collagen isn’t the answer… what is?

🖐 NIH Study: Oral Collagen Supplementation


Enter: Vegan Collagen Builders

Jade and Joy vegan collagen plant based protein bar caramel blondie

Unlike traditional supplements, vegan collagen doesn’t try to add collagen – it helps your body build its own.

  • Essential amino acids (like glycine, proline, lysine)
  • Vitamin C – activates collagen production
  • Zinc, copper, silica – vital minerals
  • Tremella mushroom – ‘the beauty mushroom’, nature’s very own hyaluronic acid
  • Sea moss – packed with over 90 trace minerals
  • Hyaluronic acid – clinically proven to improve skin moisture
  • Vitamin C has a proven role in collagen synthesis
  • Amino acid blends improve skin elasticity
  • Tremella & hyaluronic acid lock in skin hydration

🖐 Study: Vitamin C’s Role in Collagen Formation


Why Vegan Collagen Makes More Sense

Comparison Table:

Animal CollagenVegan Collagen Builders
SourceBovine, Marine, PorcinePlant-based ingredients
FunctionProvides pre-formed collagenStimulates natural collagen production
Scientific SupportMixed / LimitedStrong support for components
Ethical & DietaryNot suitable for vegans100% vegan, cruelty-free

Build Collagen with Jade & Joy 🌿

At Jade & Joy, we’ve reimagined collagen support with a beauty-from-within approach: no animal products, no empty promises.

Our Vegan Beauty Award Winning Plant Based Collagen range of Protein Bars & “Beauty Boost” Powders are crafted to:

  • Support collagen synthesis with essential amino acids
  • Hydrate skin with Tremella mushroom
  • Deliver over 90 minerals via wild sea moss
  • Actually taste delicious (no dusty powders!)

Jade & Joy pop up shop with collagen protein bars

🌿 Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and 100% vegan.


TLDR: So… Do Collagen Supplements Work?

Yes… but not in the way you’ve been told.

Traditional collagen supplements are digested just like any protein and don’t guarantee results – the science behind their benefits is often inconclusive.

Vegan collagen builders, on the other hand, offer the nutrients your body actually needs to make its own collagen: naturally, effectively, and ethically.

Next time you scroll past another miracle collagen product, ask yourself:

  • Does this support my body’s natural process?
  • Is it backed by real, peer-reviewed science?
  • Do I really need to consume animals to support my skin?
Plant Based Collagen Protein Bar
Feed your skin’ elasticity with Jade & Joy Plant Based Collagen Protein Bars

FAQ: Do Collagen Supplements Work?

Q: Do collagen supplements really work?
A: Traditional collagen is broken down during digestion and may not directly support skin or joints. Vegan collagen builders, however, nourish your body’s ability to make collagen naturally.

Q: Is vegan collagen better than marine or bovine collagen?
A: Vegan collagen builders are more sustainable and science-aligned, providing nutrients your body uses to make collagen without animal input.

Q: What makes Jade & Joy’s bars different?
A: Our bars combine functional mushrooms, sea moss, and essential amino acids in a delicious, multi-award-winning, vegan format designed to support collagen synthesis from the inside out.

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