by Dr.Ying-Chun Wu

Supplementing collagen is important, but the key is to first choose the right product! The market offers a wide variety of collagen types—from powders, jellies, and beverages to tablets—as well as professional terms like “small molecules” and “peptides,” which can often leave people unsure where to start.

Actually, choosing collagen is like selecting skincare products; you need to understand your own needs and the product features. This collagen comparison guide organizes 6major buying principles and summarizes the features, pros, and cons of 13 popular products to help you find the collagen that truly suits you !

Collagen comes in so many varieties. Have you ever stood in front of the shelf, unsure which collagen product is better? Don’t worry! We’ve organized 6 key selection principles to help you easily identify quality collagen, so you can supplement with confidence and effectiveness:

Collagen Selection Principle #1: Whether the raw materials have clinical research support

The reliability of collagen’s effects depends on whether it is backed by scientific and clinical data. Products with clinical trial results not only clearly demonstrate their absorption rates and actual effectiveness, but their manufacturing processes and quality are usually more rigorous and stable, making the entire skincare process more reassuring and reliable.

Collagen Selection Principle #2: Choose Small-Molecule Hydrolyzed Peptides

The molecular size directly affects the absorption and utilization efficiency of collagen once it enters the human body. Generally, large-molecule collagen is difficult to absorb and is mostly broken down during digestion. In comparison, enzymatically hydrolyzed collagen has smaller molecules, making it easier for the body to absorb.

Among various types, peptide-based collagen stands out even more, especially small molecular structures like dipeptide and tripeptide, which are considered the most efficiently absorbed forms. It is recommended to choose products containing both dipeptide and tripeptide collagen to enjoy the dual benefits of rapid absorption and long-lasting supplementation.

Collagen Purchasing Principle #3: Does the Content Meet Effective Supplementation Standards

Adults are recommended to take 2,500 to 6,000 milligrams of collagen daily to achieve optimal maintenance effects. For those with advanced maintenance needs, the intake can be moderately increased to 10,000 milligrams. However, it’s important to adjust the dosage according to your personal condition. Taking too much may not be fully absorbed and could increase the strain on your body!

Also, when purchasing, pay attention to the per serving content listed on the product. Some products may seem inexpensive but contain very little per serving, meaning you’d need to take many servings to reach an effective dose, which may not be cost-effective in the end.

Collagen Selection Principle #4: Is the Dosage Form Convenient for Daily Use and Easy to Maintain Consistency

The main collagen forms on the market include powder, tablets, capsules, and beverages. It's recommended to choose the form that best fits your lifestyle, ease of use, and preferences regarding absorption and taste:

• Powder:

Powdered collagen is quite flexible to consume, as it can be taken directly or mixed into drinks and food. However, if the granulation technique is poor, problems like powder flying, choking, throat discomfort, or sticking to teeth may occur, which can affect the experience. When choosing, pay special attention to whether the product claims to have fine particles and instant solubility without sticking in the throat. If flavored powders are added, they can be used directly or even mixed with food, but remember to choose natural flavors without artificial additives to avoid burdening the body.

• Tablet/Capsule:

They are very convenient to carry and store, but each capsule or tablet contains only a limited amount of collagen and cannot provide a large dose all at once.

• Beverage:

Typically, beverages can carry a high concentration of collagen, providing sufficient nutrition in a short time. Concentrated drinks are designed for instant consumption, offering not only high absorption efficiency and rapid replenishment but also convenience and effectiveness for consumers seeking these benefits.

In addition to common powders, tablets, capsules, and beverages, some brands now offer innovative collagen product formats. For example, DR.WU's Beauty Shot combines dual collagen multi- peptide drinks with Tablets that provide different benefits, offering three formulas: 「Hydra Glow」、「Bright Boost」and 「Night Calm」. This allows you to flexibly choose based on your skin's current needs, making skincare more adaptable and easy to include in your daily routine!

Collagen Selection Principle #5: Choose the Right Compound Formula Product

Single-ingredient products mainly contain only collagen; Compound formula products incorporate additional ingredients such as Vitamin C, sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid), ceramide, elastin, probiotics, and more, aiming to create a synergistic effect greater than the sum of their parts.

For example, Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis, sodium hyaluronate helps the skin retain moisture, elastin supports the skin’s structure alongside collagen, and Probiotics help maintain digestive health and more. When choosing, you can select a compound collagen formula based on your personal care needs to enhance the variety and overall benefits of your daily supplementation.

Collagen Selection Principle #6: Check for a Food Safety Inspection Report

Safety is the top priority when purchasing health supplements! Quality products should have third-party inspection reports from impartial organizations like SGS to ensure no harmful substances are present.Heavy metals, pesticide residues, plasticizers, pharmaceutical ingredients, and other harmful substances should be absent, and it is best if the test reports are publicly transparent, allowing consumers to check them anytime. This way, supplementation can be done with complete peace of mind.

Next, we have carefully selected 13 popular collagen products on the market and conducted a detailed collagen comparison from various perspectives, helping you find the most suitable option!

Collagen Comparison #1 DR.WU Dual Collagen Multi-peptides Drink

DR.WU Dual Collagen Multi- Peptide Drink, featuring a dual-effect design of “tablet above, drink below,” this product combines an ultra-concentrated dual collagen drink with Tablets. Each bottle of the drink contains 6,000mg of 500Da small molecule collagen, which has smaller molecules for better absorption! The tablet component in the Hydro Glow Collagen Beauty Shot is specially formulated with ceramide and vitamin B5 to both hydrate and lock in moisture, helping you maintain a supple condition every day.

Its compact design makes it easy to carry. Whether you are in air-conditioned rooms, during dry seasons, or spending long hours indoors, you can replenish anytime. Besides the Hydro Glow formula, the series also features the 「Bright Boost Collagen Beauty Shot」 and 「Night Calm Collagen Beauty Shot」 designed to meet diverse needs and effortlessly support skincare routines in different situations.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $183 (per bottle)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 6,000mg (per bottle)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 500 Da 
• Collagen Formulation: Collagen drink + Beauty Tablets
• Single or Combination Formula: A combination formula with added Vitamin C, Elastin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramide
• Taste: Berry-flavored, no fishy smell
• Package Size: 7 servings per box
• Collagen Origin: South Korea

Collagen Comparison #2 DHC Collagen Plus

DHC Collagen Plus is one of Japan’s most popular and long-selling health supplements, featuring high-purity fish collagen combined with nutrients like Vitamin B1 and B2 to enhance absorption and synergistic effects. The product comes in tablet form, with a daily intake of 6 tablets providing 2,050 milligrams of collagen. This is considered a lighter daily supplement. If you want to align more closely with commonly recommended clinical levels, you may consider additional supplementation based on your needs.

• Average daily cost: approximately $17 (6 tablets)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 2,050mg (6 tablets daily)
• Molecular Weight: Not specified
• Collagen Formulation: Tablet
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination formula with added Vitamin B1 and B2
• Taste: No fishy odor
•  Package Quantity: 180 tablets per pack (30-day supply)
• Collagen Origin: Japan

Collagen Comparison #3 DR.WU Dual Collagen Multi-Peptide Powder

DR.WU Dual Collagen Multi-Peptide Powder, uses a dual patented formula from Korea and Japan, combining GPH collagen tripeptides and PO·OG collagen dipeptides, with a molecular weight below 500 Da, allowing the body to absorb and utilize it more efficiently. Includes multiple beauty nutrients such as Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peach ceramide, and probiotics, providing more comprehensive skincare and helping the skin to radiate natural brightness and glow from within!

Additionally, the powder uses instant dissolution technology, melting immediately in the mouth without choking and minimizing issues like fishy odor or powder inhalation. Taking 1 to 2 sachets daily is sufficient for regular supplementation, ideal for consumers seeking convenience, great taste, and effective maintenance.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $46 (per sachet)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 3,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 500 Da
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination formula including Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Peach Ceramide, Probiotics, and more
• Taste: Berry-flavored, no fishy smell
• Packaging Quantity: 28 sachets/box, 7 sachets/box
• Collagen Origin: South Korea, Japan

Collagen Comparison #4 TKLAB Twin Beauties Super Elastic® NADH Collagen Powder (Guava Flavor)

TKLAB’s Twin Beauties Super Elastic® NADH Collagen Powder combines NADH with VERISOL® collagen, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, and Vitamin C in a compound formula. This product comes in powder stick form, making it easy to carry. The recommended daily intake for regular maintenance is one stick per day, which can be increased to two sticks as needed for enhanced care.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $59 (per packet)
• Collagen Raw Material: Porcine collagen
• Collagen Dosage: Not specified
• Collagen Molecular Weight: Not specified
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination formula containing NADH, NAG, and Vitamin C
• Flavor: Guava, no fishy odor
• Packaging Quantity: 10 packets per box
• Collagen Origin: Germany

Collagen Comparison #5 Meiji Collagen Powder Standard Edition

Meiji Collagen Powder is a classic product from a well-known Japanese manufacturer, widely recognized in the market. Its main ingredient is fish collagen, combined with Vitamin C and other compound components. This product uses patented Magical Clear mild flavor technology to reduce the unique odor of collagen, making it easy to mix with various hot or cold, savory or sweet beverages or meals.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $29 (per serving)
•  Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
•  Collagen Dosage: 5,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: Not specified
• Collagen Formulation: Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination formula with added Vitamin C, L-Arginine, and Glucosamine
• Taste: Mild flavor treatment with no noticeable fishy smell
• Package Quantity: 196g/bag (28-Day Supply
• Collagen Origin: Not Specified

Collagen Comparison #6 Weider Marine Collagen Powder + Iron

Weider’s Marine Collagen Powder includes iron, aiming to supplement beauty nutrients while supporting daily vitality. It uses fish collagen as the base and contains multiple nutritional elements. The powder is sugar-free and low-calorie, ideal for those who prefer a simple formula. The product highlights Japanese imported ingredients, emphasizing ingredient origin and nutritional balance.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $23 (per serving)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 3,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 2,000 Da
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Compound formula with added LIPOFER® microencapsulated iron, camu camu extract, glutathione, and NAG
• Flavor: Honey lemon, with no fishy or metallic aftertaste
• Packaging Quantity: 60 packs per box
• Collagen Origin: Not Specified

Collagen Comparison #7 My Health Diary Royal Jelly Collagen Drink

This collagen drink features royal jelly combined with fish collagen, providing 10,000 milligrams of collagen per bottle. It also includes various nutritional ingredients, making it especially suitable for those looking to enhance their skincare routine. The product is packaged in ready-to-drink bottles, convenient to carry and consume anytime.

• Average Daily Cost: $100 (per bottle)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 10,000mg (per bottle)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 2,000 Da
• Collagen Formulation: Ready-to-drink bottle
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination with Japanese patented royal jelly and Vitamin C
• Flavor: Peach
• Packaging Quantity: 6 bottles per box
• Collagen Origin: France

Collagen Comparison #8 Angel LaLa EX Collagen Powder

Angel LaLa EX Collagen Powder is one of the most popular star products in the Taiwanese market. Featuring collagen imported from Japan and France, emphasizing high purity and excellent absorption. The formula also includes various beauty-enhancing ingredients such as Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Elastin, making it ideal for consumers seeking comprehensive care.

• Average Daily Cost: approximately $26 (per 1 packet)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 6,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 2,000 Da
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: combination formula with added Proteoglycan, fish Elastin, Hyaluronic Acid, and berry extracts
• Taste: Berry-flavored, no fishy smell
• Packaging Quantity: 15 packs per box, 2 boxes in total
• Collagen Origin: Japan, France

Collagen Comparison #9 Suntory Milcolla Collagen Powder

Suntory Milcolla Collagen Powder is from a renowned Japanese brand, featuring a formula that combines collagen, elastin, milk ceramide, proteoglycan, as well as vitamin C and acerola cherry. This product comes in small powder packets that can be added to coffee, yogurt, or meals, making it easy to carry and incorporate into your daily skincare routine.

• Average Daily Cost: About $66 (1 pack per serving)
• Collagen Raw Material: Pork, Fish Collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 5,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: Not specified
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Compound formula with added Vitamin C, Elastin, Milk Ceramide, Acerola Cherry, and Proteoglycan
• Flavor: Light milky aroma
• Packaging Quantity: 15 packs per box
• Collagen Origin: Japan

Collagen Comparison #10 BHK’s Advanced Collagen Plus Tablets

BHK’s Advanced Collagen Plus Tablets are health supplements specially designed for busy modern individuals. The formula contains patented small molecule fish collagen from France, with 800 mg of collagen per serving (2 tablets), combined with chicken cartilage extract, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. The product comes in tablet form, making it convenient to carry and swallow. However, for enhanced maintenance, take 2 tablets per dose, 2 to 3 times daily.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $60 (for 6 tablets)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 800 mg (per serving of 2 tablets)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 2,000 Da
• Collagen Formulation: Tablet
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination formula with chicken breast cartilage extract (containing hyaluronic acid) and Vitamin C
• Taste: No fishy odor
• Packaging Quantity: 60 Tablets per Bottle
• Collagen Origin: France

Collagen Comparison #11 Tien Di He Bu EXX Collagen Beauty Drink

Tien Di He Bu EXX Radiant Collagen Beauty Drink contains 3,000mg of marine peptide-grade collagen per serving and includes patented hydrolyzed silk protein from Japan, lychee seed extract, sodium hyaluronate, and other ingredients, focusing on a synergistic blend and fundamental nutritional support. Packaged ready-to-drink for convenience, it's easy to carry and consume daily, ideal for those who prefer a convenient drinkable form as part of their regular skincare routine.

• Average Daily Cost: About $61 (per serving)
• Collagen Raw Material: Marine Collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 3,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: Not specified
• Collagen Formulation: Ready-to-drink pack
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination with added Lychee Seed Extract and Silk Protein
• Flavor: Sweet and sour
• Packaging Volume: 30ml per pack, 6 packs per box
• Collagen Origin: Japan

Collagen Comparison #12 FJ Fengjie Biomedical  100% Collagen

Fengjie Biomedical 100% Collagen highlights a high-purity single collagen formula imported directly from Germany with no additives. Fragrance-free and free of flavoring agents, ideal for consumers seeking simple ingredients and a trustworthy source. Powdered form, can be easily added to beverages or food, providing great flexibility for daily use.

• Average daily cost: about $24 (per serving)
• Collagen Raw Material: Bovine collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 3,000mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: 3,000 Da
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Single formula
• Flavor: light milky aroma, no fishy taste
• Packaging Quantity: 30 packs per box
• Collagen Origin: Germany

Collagen Comparison #13 Lo Hong Ka Pearl Collagen Plus+ (Upgraded Version)

Lo Hong Ka Pearl Collagen Plus+ (Upgraded Version) is based on Japan Nitta Collagen and combined with patented Japanese elastin, pearl powder, Moro blood orange concentrate, olive extract, and ferrous glycinate compound ingredients, focusing on balanced daily care. The product is in stick-shaped powder form, taking one pack in the morning and one at night supplies 5,000 mg of collagen.

• Average Daily Cost: Approximately $28 (per serving)
• Collagen Raw Material: Fish collagen
• Collagen Dosage: 2,500mg (per serving)
• Collagen Molecular Weight: Not specified
• Collagen Formulation: Small Sachet Powder
• Single or Combination Formula: Combination including Elastin, Ferrous Glycinate, Italian Blood Orange, Pearl Powder, and Olive Extract
• Flavor: Lemon Yogurt
• Packaging Quantity: 30 packs per box
• Collagen Origin: Japan, USA

Whether you’re just starting to seriously care for your skin or have been supplementing collagen for some time, you likely still have questions about Collagen Comparison. Does collagen supplementation really work? How much should you take daily? How long until you see results? Here, we answer these and more in 6 key Q&As so you can understand it all at once!

Q1: Does oral collagen really work?

Collagen are like other proteins, is first broken down during digestion into small molecular amino acids or peptides before being absorbed and utilized by the body. Compared to traditional large-molecule collagen, choosing collagen peptide supplements produced by enzymatic hydrolysis with smaller molecular weight can significantly enhance absorption efficiency and make it easier for the body to use collagen where it is needed.

However, since everyone's constitution, diet, and lifestyle differ, the speed of absorption and effects will vary. It is recommended to continue supplementation for at least 1 to 3 months, while maintaining a balanced diet and regular routine, to see noticeable changes.

(Extended reading: Is Taking Collagen Really Effective? Revealing the Truth Behind No Effects, Experts Share 6 Key Tips for Choosing Wisely!)

Q2: Is Higher Collagen Content Always Better?

Many people pay special attention to the 'dosage' when buying products, thinking that the more collagen, the better. In fact, this is a misconception. Research recommends a daily collagen intake of 2,500 to 10,000mg; excessive amounts may increase the body's burden! Therefore, when selecting products, prioritize those with small molecules, good absorption, and clear sources. Taking what your body can absorb matters more than taking more.

Q3: What is the ideal molecular weight for collagen?

Molecular weight is a crucial factor influencing collagen absorption. Generally, small molecular peptides with a molecular weight below 1,000 Da have the best absorption. Some premium products can even achieve below 500 Da. Large-molecule collagen, due to its bigger structure, is not easily absorbed into the body's circulation. Therefore, when purchasing, it is better to choose products clearly labeled as small-molecule or peptide-type collagen.

Q4: How long does it take for collagen to be effective?

Collagen supplementation is not a quick fix that works within just a day or two. Generally, most people begin to notice gradual changes after continuous supplementation for 1 to 3 months. Additionally, during this process, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise are necessary to help maintain the effects.

(For further reading: When is the best time to take collagen? How long does it take to see results? These 4 golden time periods make the effects more noticeable!)

Q5: Who needs to take collagen?

In fact, people may need to supplement collagen at different stages of life. For example, those over 25 years old, people who often stay up late or experience high stress, or individuals who frequently eat out, have an unbalanced diet, are often exposed to sunlight, or have skin that tends to be dry and dull, are all groups recommended to supplement collagen.

Q6: At what age should you start taking collagen?

There is no strict age limit. However, most experts recommend starting supplementation after age 25 because, according to researchResearch shows that collagen naturally declines with age, peaking between 25 and 34 years old, and the body's collagen production slows down gradually each year.

After reading this article, do you realize there are so many details to consider when choosing collagen? Don’t worry—once you understand the six key points mentioned above, you can greatly narrow down your options. If you'd like to save time from repeated comparisons, consider exploring the DR.WU Beauty Supplements series. Using patented small molecule peptides combined with multiple beauty-boosting ingredients, it addresses both basic and enhanced needs all at once, letting you easily maintain a radiant complexion even with a busy lifestyle!

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