How long should I take collagen supplements? Should I take collagen everyday?
See when you notice the desired effects of supplementation and how long you can take collagen.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Why you can trust us
Articles on Natu.Care are written based on scientific research, data from government websites and other reliable sources. The texts are written in cooperation with doctors, nutritionists and other health and beauty experts. Articles are reviewed before publication and during significant updates.
.Learn more about our editorial process
.Information about advertisements
Content on Natu.Care may contain links to products from the sale of which we may receive a commission. When creating content, we adhere to high editorial standards and take care to be objective about the products discussed. The presence of affiliate links is not dictated by our partners, and we select the products we review ourselves completely independently.
.Learn more about our terms and Conditions
.Collagen supplementation - should this treatment be temporary or can it last forever?
Collagen is a protein present naturally in your body and food. It doesn't work like a cough medicine that you have to put down once the coughing goes away. By sticking to recommended doses, you also don't have to fear that you will overdo it and your body will go haywire.
From this article you will learn:
- How long it is safe to take collagen.
- When the effects of supplementation will appear.
- What influences the time it takes for results to appear.
- How long it takes for results to appear.
See also:
- The most powerful collagen on the market
- The best collagen for wrinkles
- Best collagen for face
- Best collagen for skin
- Best collagen for acne
- Best collagen for scars
- Best collagen for cellulite
- Best collagen for stretch marks
- Best collagen for hair
- Best collagen for nails
- Best collagen for joints
- Best collagen for bones
- Best collagen for tendons
- Collagen for tennis elbow
How long can collagen be used?
In research, there is no limit to how long you can take collagen dietary supplements. What's more, you will get the best results from the treatment if you use it long-term. So you can permanently incorporate it into your diet .
Collagen supplements are safe. Collagen occurs naturally in your body. Its intake is designed to stimulate natural synthesis and replenish collagen deficiencies that occur with age .
Collagen, thanks to its unique triple-helix structure, is used as a carrier for medicines and, simply put, a signpost to where they need to go and act.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
An exception to this rule is people who have collagen contraindications. Collagen supplements should not be taken by people :
- sensitised to any ingredient in the preparation,
- suffering from kidney and liver disorders,
- having certain autoimmune disorders,
- suffering from some gastrointestinal disorders,
- in pregnancy and lactation,
Important
If you have a chronic illness and are taking medication, consult your doctor before starting any supplementation.
After how long will you see the effects of collagen supplementation?
In a nutshell: with regular use of adequate portions of collagen, you may notice an improvement in the appearance of your skin in as little as one month. You will see the full results of taking collagen after three months of daily supplementation. Exactly when the effects of taking collagen will occur depends on the degree of deficiency your body is facing.
The daily portion of collagen you take is crucial. A product containing 5000 mg of collagen will work much faster than one that will have 500 mg of it .
Also, pay attention to the source and form in which collagen is present in a particular dietary supplement. Hydrolysed collagen (i.e. broken down into smaller molecules - collagen peptides), is much easier to digest and gets to where it needs to go faster.
To achieve treatment results as quickly as possible, choose fish-derived collagens. Fish and sea creatures are the source of the youth protein most similar in structure to humans. As a result, collagen from this source effectively combines with that in your body - they fit together like building blocks from the same manufacturer.
When taking fish collagen hydrolysate fish collagen with a good daily serving (2.5 to 15g), the first results can be seen after about 4 weeks of supplementation.
Most users notice a definite improvement after two months, and the full effects after about three. But there is one catch...
The effects of supplementation will not last forever. Discontinuing supplementation will result in a renewed deterioration of the skin after a period of time - a reversal of the beneficial changes achieved by supplementation. In the study, patients noticed the first adverse effects approximately 4 weeks after discontinuing collagen supplementation.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
How long supplementation should last also depends on the purpose for which you are taking collagen.
See also:
- Fish collagen for drinking and fish collagen powder
- Most powerful collagen for joints and skin (ranking)
How long to use collagen for joints, skin and bones?
If you are supplementing with collagen due to joint ailments, you are likely to feel a change in joint function after about 3 months. This is the time it takes for the joint cartilage to regenerate. There will also be an increase in the amount of joint lubricant produced .
Buying collagen to get rid of wrinkles? It might take a little longer. Most users say they have to wait a few months for the wrinkles on their face to smooth out. However, you may notice the first results, in the form of firmer and denser skin, in as little as one month .
The effects will definitely be accelerated by proper hydration of the body. We still don't drink enough water, which makes the skin lose its firmness. In addition, proper diet and exercise. It is also important to avoid sunbathing without sunscreen, as UV radiation promotes skin ageing - it causes oxidative stress.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
Bone improvement takes by far the longest time. This is because collagen is not the only ingredient that has an impact. In addition to it, calcium and vitamin D, among others, are also crucial. This makes it necessary to wait up to a year for this effect .
In the case of menopausal women, this time may be even longer, as collagen synthesis drastically decreases and collagen degradation progresses.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
How long do you need to use collagen to drink it?
Drinking collagen -whether in liquid, shot or powder form to be dissolved in water, is absorbed into the body most quickly and efficiently . Also due to its higher collagen content than that present in tablets. To best assess the effectiveness of supplementation, drink collagen for at least 3 months. After this time, improvements should become noticeable.
How long does it take to use collagen in tablets?
Typically, formulations with collagen capsules have a smaller daily serving of collagen. Therefore, you may have to wait a little longer for the effects of supplementation. However, if your collagen tablets provide you with at least 2.5 grams of this protein per daily portion, with regular supplementation, the first effects may be noticeable after at least 3 months.
Recommended dietary supplements with collagen
Criteria:
- Daily serving of collagen - effective dietary supplements with collagen contain between 2,500 mg and 10,000 mg of collagen per daily serving.
- Daily serving of collagen - effective dietary supplements with collagen contain between 2,500 mg and 10,000 mg of collagen per daily serving.
- Additional active ingredients - depending on the reason you are supplementing collagen, additional vitamins, minerals and plant extracts may speed up and improve the effects of your treatment.
- Pure composition - all the substances you take have an effect on your body. Why litter it with unnecessary colours, preservatives and fillers?
- Research-backed performance - the best collagens are tested for purity of composition and effectiveness of active ingredients.
- Flavour - although this is an individual matter, taste is also important. Find a dietary supplement that you won't take 'as punishment'. Here you can see the full criteria.
Natu.Care Premium collagen 10 000 mg, mango-maracuja
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (and L-theanine and coenzyme Q10 in cocoa flavoured collagen or vitamin A and vitamin E in mango–passion fruit flavoured collagen)
- Form: powder sachets
- Dose: 1 sachet per day
- Sufficient for: 30 days
Product description
One of the strongest collagens on the market, whichós provides as much as 10,000 mg in a daily serving. This allows the formula to effectively support the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
With this supplement, you will support your beauty, which will allow you to visually stop the ageing process and feel a second youth!
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 10 000 mg comes in two flavours – cherry and mango-maracuja. Both formulas have the same product backbone – collagen, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.
In the cherry version you additionally find glucosamine, chondroitin and Indian frankincense resin extract. Mango-maracuja, on the other hand, contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tested collagen formula – SeaGarden, whose effects have been confirmed in clinical studies.
- Effective dose of hyaluronic acid, additionally moisturizing the skin and positively impacting joint health.
- Vitamin C supports the body’s natural collagen production.
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
- The product has an MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) quality certification – the collagen source supports sustainable fishing practices.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
Users praise Natu.Care Collagen Premium for the easy dissolvability of the powder.
User review
I noticed a significant improvement in my skin texture after a few weeks of taking collagen regularly. My complexion is now as soft as velvet!
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 10000 mg, cherry
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg of hydrolyzed bovine collagen
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin, extract of Indian frankincense resin (boswellia serrata)
- Form: powder sachets for drinking
- Serving: 1 sachet per day
- Lasts for: 30 days
Product description
One of the strongest collagens on the market, providing as much as 10,000 mg per daily serving. This product can effectively support the condition of joints, skin, hair, and nails.
With this supplement, you will support your skeletal and joint system as well as your beauty, helping you visually halt the aging process and feel rejuvenated!
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The daily portion of collagen is very large – as much as 10,000 mg.
- Proven collagen formula – COLLinstant, whose effectiveness has been confirmed in clinical studies.
- Effective dose of hyaluronic acid, which additionally moisturizes the skin and positively affects joint health.
- Vitamin C supports the body's natural collagen production.
- Glucosamine is a fundamental building block of compounds found in joint cartilage and a component of collagen that gives elasticity to connective tissue in tendons.
- Chondroitin is a natural component found in the human body, mainly in cartilage. This large molecule (mucopolysaccharide) has the ability to absorb water, which helps maintain the elasticity and resilience of cartilage.
- Frankincense resin extract supports blood circulation and joint mobility and reduces their stiffness. It may help alleviate inflammatory conditions.
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
Users praise Natu.Care Collagen Premium for the easy dissolving of the powder.
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen
- Collagen content: 12 000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
- Form: powder
- Dose: 3 tbsp per day
- Sufficient for: 18 days
Product description
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen Peptides is a premium collagen supplement designed for those following pescatarian-friendly diets. This marine collagen powder contains 12g of high-quality collagen peptides per serving, known for supporting skin elasticity, joint health, and overall vitality. Odorless and unflavored, it blends seamlessly into your favorite drinks or recipes, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Made from wild-caught white fish, ensuring a high standard of quality and environmental responsibility.
- Powder dissolves effortlessly in hot or cold beverages.
- Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed for quick absorption.
- Pescatarian-friendly with sustainably sourced ingredients
- Made without gluten / cholesterol / mercury / dairy.
Cons:
- Doesn't contain additional ingredients, e.g vitamin C.
- The packaging isn't sufficient for a whole month.
Orgain Collagen Peptides
- Collagen content: 20 000 mg bovine collagen hydrolysate
- Form: powder
- Dose: 2 scoops per day
- Sufficient for: 22 days
Product description
With 20g of Type I and III collagen peptides per serving, this unflavored, odorless powder easily blends into any beverage or recipe, making it a versatile addition to your daily wellness routine. High dosage enables you to see effects faster.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- High collagen content per serving, hydrolyzed for easier absorption.
- Derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle, ensuring quality and ethical sourcing.
- Unflavored powder can be seamlessly incorporated into coffee, smoothies, soups, and more.
- Non-GMO and free from dairy, soy, gluten, sugar and artificial ingredients.
Cons:
- Doesn't contain additional ingredients, e.g vitamin C.
- The packaging isn't sufficient for a whole month.
Product description
Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein offers a powerful blend of ten types of collagen from four whole-food sources: grass-fed bovine, free-range chicken, wild-caught fish, and eggshell membrane. Formulated with Types I, II, III, V, and X collagen, this powder supports the health of your skin, joints, nails, and gut.
The included SBO probiotics promote gut health, while Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis and boosts immune function, delivering a holistic approach to wellness in every scoop.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Contains 10 types of collagen to support skin, joint, gut, and nail health
- Enriched with clinically studied probiotics and Vitamin C for additional gut and immune benefits
- Versatile vanilla flavor, perfect for adding to smoothies, coffee, or other recipes.
- Paleo and keto-friendly, with no dairy or gluten
Cons:
- Each collagen source (bovine, fish, chicken) requires distinct quality controls. Consumers concerned about sourcing may want to research the origin and processing of each source for peace of mind.
- The producer doesn't specify the percentage composition of the various types of collagen in the product.
Product tiles contain affiliate links. As An Amazon Partner, I earn from qualifying purchases.
See also:
- Drinking collagen
- Collagen powder
- Collagen in sachets
- Liquid collagen
- Collagen in tablets
- Collagen in capsules
- Collagen in shots
- How to choose collagen
Summary
- Collagen is a dietary supplement designed for long-term supplementation.
- Collagen is a dietary supplement designed for long-term supplementation.
- The first effects of the treatment can be noticed after about a month of use. After this time, you may notice a difference in the density and tightness of your skin.
- The full effects of the treatment can be felt.
- The full effects of collagen treatment usually come after three months. You will have to wait longer for the visible shallowing of wrinkles and strengthening of the bones.
- Collagen for drinking.
- Drinkable collagen is absorbed into the body faster than collagen in capsules.
- Hence, how quickly you will notice the effects of a collagen treatment is crucial, as is the size of your daily serving and the form.
FAQ
Can you drink collagen every day?
You can drink collagen every day. Choose collagen supplements of high quality, preferably certified pure in composition. drinking collagen continuously every day can help improve elasticity and hydration skin, health joints and bone.
After how long do you see the effects of using collagen?
The effects of using collagen begin to become visible after approximately 4-12 weeks of regular use. Collagen is a protein that helps keep skin firm and elastic. Additionally, collagen supports the health of the joints and bone.
Use collagen according to the manufacturer's recommendations, as excess will not accelerate the effects and may lead to unwanted side effects.
How long to drink collagen for your joints
To improve the mobility of joints and reduce their soreness, take collagen daily for about three months. To reduce the time it takes to feel the effects, the daily dose of collagen you take matters. Ideally, the product you choose should contain 5,000-10,000 mg of this ingredient per daily portion.
How often can you take collagen?
Take collagen daily. Take it with a meal for better absorption. Collagen powder You can, for example, add it to your morning smoothie or yoghurt. It is important to continue supplementation for at least 3-6 months to see visible results. Long-term use of collagen is safe, but if in doubt, consult your doctor.
Is excess collagen harmful?
"Collagen overdose" is unlikely and can only be the result of extremely irresponsible supplementation. Excess collagen can lead to health problems. Too much collagen can contribute to excessive tissue fibrosis. An example is a condition called scleroderma, which causes hardening of the skin and internal organs.
Excess collagen can also contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, always pay attention to the dosage of collagen supplements and do not exceed the recommended daily portions.
What time of day to drink collagen
The time of day at which you take collagen is not important. Instead, the regularity of supplementation is much more important. So choose a time when taking collagen is most convenient for you - then regularity will be easier.
How long can you take collagen powder?
Research does not indicate a limit to the amount of time to take collagen. This dietary supplement is safe and suitable for long-term use. Some users take breaks between three-month cycles of supplementation.
Sources
See all
Abrahams, M., O'Grady, R., & Prawitt, J. (2022). Effect of a Daily Collagen Peptide Supplement on Digestive Symptoms in Healthy Women: 2-Phase Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Formative Research, 6(5), e36339. https://doi.org/10.2196/36339
Al-Atif, H. (2022). Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Fields of Dermatology and Cosmetics. Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, 12(1), e2022018. https://doi.org/10.5826/dpc.1201a18
Bolke, L., Schlippe, G., Gerß, J., & Voss, W. (2019). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients, 11(10), 2494. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102494
König, D., Oesser, S., Scharla, S., Zdzieblik, D., & Gollhofer, A. (2018). Specific Collagen Peptides Improve Bone Mineral Density and Bone Markers in Postmenopausal Women-A Randomized Controlled Study. Nutrients, 10(1), 97. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10010097
Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. (n.d.). JDDonline - Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. Retrieved March 3, 2023, from https://jddonline.com/articles/oral-collagen-supplementation-a-systematic-review-of-dermatological-applications-S1545961619P0009X/
Porfírio, E., & Fanaro, G. B. (2016). Collagen supplementation as a complementary therapy for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis: A systematic review. Revista Brasileira de Geriatria e Gerontologia, 19(1), 153-164. https://doi.org/10.1590/1809-9823.2016.14145
Proksch, E., Schunck, M., Zague, V., Segger, D., Degwert, J., & Oesser, S. (2013). Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27(3). https://doi.org/10.1159/000355523
Tzaphlidou, M. (2008). Bone Architecture: Collagen Structure and Calcium/Phosphorus Maps. Journal of Biological Physics, 34(1-2), 39-49. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10867-008-9115-y
Wu, M., Cronin, K., & Crane, J. S. (2023). Biochemistry, Collagen Synthesis. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507709/
Yagoda MD, M. R., & Gans PhD, E. H. (2012). A Nutritional Supplement Formulated with Peptides, Lipids, Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid Optimizes Key Aspects of Physical Appearance in Nails, Hair and Skin. Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences, s5. https://doi.org/10.4172/2155-9600.S5-002
de Miranda, R. B., Weimer, P., & Rossi, R. C.. (2021). Effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Dermatology, 60(12), 1449-1461. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.15518
Dermatological expertise on an eight-week lasting clinical-dermatological application test with hydration determination using a corneometer. Nutricoll Marine Collagen Peptide Powder (3 kDa). (2017). Seagarden AS. https://seagarden-norway.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Nutricoll-Marine-Collagen-Study_Methodology-Info.pdf
García-Coronado, J. M., Martínez-Olvera, L., Elizondo-Omaña, R. E., Acosta-Olivo, C. A., Vilchez-Cavazos, F., Simental-Mendía, L. E., & Simental-Mendía, M. (2019). Effect of collagen supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. International Orthopaedics, 43(3), 531-538. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-018-4211-5
Gunawan1*, I., Widayati1, R. I., Riyanto1, P., Budiastuti1, A., Malik1, D. A., Muslimin1, Widyawati1, & Suhartono2, A. (20230202). The Effectiveness of Oral Fish Collagen Supplementation on Skin Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Skin Hydration, Skin Elasticity, and Skin Wrinkles. American Journal of Dermatological Research and Reviews, 6. https://doi.org/10.28933/ajodrr-2023-01-0505ig
Jalili, Z., Jalili, F., Moradi, S., Bagheri, R., Moosavian, S. P., Naeini, F., Mohammadi, H., Ghoreishy, S. M., Wong, A., Travica, N., Kermani, M. A. H., & Jalili, C. (2023). Effects of collagen peptide supplementation on cardiovascular markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled trials. British Journal of Nutrition, 129(5), 779-794. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114522001301
Pu, S.-Y., Huang, Y.-L., Pu, C.-M., Kang, Y.-N., Hoang, K. D., Chen, K.-H., & Chen, C. (2023). Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients, 15(9), Article 9. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092080
Jelonek, L. (2023). Collagen. Everything you need to know (B. Turczynski, ed.; 1st ed.). Natu.Care. https://books.google.com/books?vid=9788396887801
Editorials
Meet the teamIlona Krzak obtained her Master of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of Wrocław. She did her internship in a hospital pharmacy and in the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently working in the profession and also runs an educational profile on Instagram: @pani_z_apteki
Mar 24
Everything you want to know about COLLinstant collagen.
Dec 18
Collibre collagen is an interesting supplement in shot form.
Dec 18
Solgar collagen with hyaluronic acid is a dietary supplement that supports skin and joint health.