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Here’s how to choose the best liquid collagen

Even though it’s been a few years since collagen became a “thing,” it’s still as popular as ever. While a powder form of collagen added to hot or cold beverages is the most well-known way to take it, it can sometimes clump up, which has led fans to search for a different form.

That’s where liquid collagen comes into play. It blends with beverages seamlessly, and there’s even something called a “beauty shot.” We found the best liquid collagen supplements — vegan options included — that improve hydration and include other benefits like healthier nails and even muscle support, so you can easily obtain that skin glow-up you’ve been coveting.

In this article: ​​VPLab Ultra Women’s Beauty Collagen Liquid, Rejuvicare Liquid Collagen Beauty Formula, BeRadiant Hydrolyzed Liquid Collagen Shot

What exactly is collagen?

Collagen is a protein that’s already found in the human body. It plays a huge role in the structure of connective tissues and holds your muscles, bones and organs together. It also plays a role in replacing dead skin cells and gives the skin elasticity, which is why it’s such a popular addition to a skin care regimen.

What are the health benefits of liquid collagen?

As you age, your body’s natural production of collagen diminishes, so taking a supplement might help with not only joint aches, but also with elasticity, leading to smoother and firmer skin and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.

How much collagen should you take?

It’s always best to speak with your health provider before adding any new supplements to your daily routine, but general guidelines suggest it’s safe to ingest anywhere between 15 and 30 grams a day. Liquid collagen products usually offer 0.5-4 grams per tablespoon, which is plenty, especially if you’re just starting to take the supplement.

Ways to take liquid collagen

  • Added to food: You can use it as a topping for warm cereal or yogurt, and fruit-flavored liquid collagen is a perfect addition to smoothies.

  • As a beverage: A great perk of liquid collagen is that it blends seamlessly with other beverages. Simply add it to your coffee, cold brew, water or juice and go.

  • As a shot: It usually comes flavored, but consider that these shots may contain added sugar or artificial flavors, and some need to be added to water.

Collagen Sources

Animal-sourced collagen

Real collagen isn’t a vegan supplement. Bovine-based collagen is derived from cow bone, cartilage and hide, and marine collagen sourced from wild-caught cod, a fish not at risk of overfishing. Bovine-based collagen has two types of collagen, and fish-based collagen has one, but it offers more health benefits.

Plant-sourced collagen

If you are opposed to ingesting collagen made from animal sources, you can opt to use a vegan version. It still offers the body what it needs to boost natural collagen, and while plant-based skincare experts claim it’s effective, there’s no proof it works as well as animal-based collagen.

The best liquid collagen

NeoCell Liquid Collagen

NeoCell Liquid Collagen

This pomegranate-flavored supplement is allergy-friendly and contains 5 grams of types 1 and 3 grass-fed collagen peptides to support skin and joint health.

BeRadiant Hydrolyzed Liquid Collagen Shot

BeRadiant Hydrolyzed Liquid Collagen Shot

This is a great option if you want to try a marine-based collagen. It has a peach flavor and is packed with biotin, Vitamin C and E and CoQ10, astaxanthin, all of which help promote healthy skin, hair and nails.

Gold Collagen Marine Collagen Peptides Drink

Gold Collagen Marine Collagen Peptides Drink

This supplement contains 11 ingredients, including vitamin B6 and C and Zinc, that boost antiaging effects; it supports the immune system and is said to boost energy levels.

​​VPLab Ultra Women's Beauty Collagen Liquid

​​VPLab Ultra Women’s Beauty Collagen Liquid

This comes in a concentrated form, offering 4 grams of collagen peptides, as well as biotin and B-complex vitamins. It’s easy to mix with water, tastes good and some users have claimed a decrease in joint pain after use.

Rejuvicare Liquid Collagen Beauty Formula

Rejuvicare Liquid Collagen Beauty Formula

This Amazon choice product comes in a grape flavor, contains antioxidants and biotin, and reviews support impressive hair and nail growth.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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