Collagen is one of the biggest names in wellness — and one of the most over-promised. As a UK supplement vendor, I'd rather tell you the honest version: what collagen actually is, what genuinely varies between products, and what the rules do and don't let anyone claim.
I'm Barry Lees, founder of The Health Improvers. This is educational buyer information, not medical advice or a health claim.
The honest bit first: what collagen can claim
Here's what most collagen marketing won't tell you: collagen itself does not hold an authorised UK/EU health claim. So legally, a product can't claim that collagen firms your skin or strengthens your nails. What can be claimed comes from vitamins and minerals often added alongside it — for example Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin, and Biotin and Zinc contribute to the maintenance of normal skin, hair and nails. A well-built collagen product pairs the collagen with those nutrients so it has something real to stand on.
Types of collagen
There are several types, but three matter for supplements: Type I (skin, hair, nails, bones — the most abundant), Type II (cartilage) and Type III (skin and blood vessels, usually alongside Type I). Marine collagen is predominantly Type I, which is why it's popular for beauty-focused formulas.
Marine vs bovine
Marine collagen comes from fish and is rich in Type I; bovine collagen comes from cattle and provides Types I and III. Marine is often favoured for its Type I content and by pescatarians; bovine is typically more economical. We compare them properly in our marine vs bovine collagen guide.
Hydrolysed peptides and bioavailability
Most quality collagen is hydrolysed — broken into smaller “peptides” that dissolve easily and are more bioavailable. If a label says hydrolysed collagen peptides, that's what you want.
The dose that matters
Amount per serving is where products differ most. Many effective formulas provide around 10g of collagen per serving; be wary of tubs that look cheap until you realise the serving is tiny. Always compare grams per serving, not price per tub.
What to look for
- Hydrolysed peptides (not raw gelatine).
- A meaningful dose — around 10g per serving is a good benchmark.
- Added Vitamin C, Biotin and/or Zinc — the nutrients that carry the real skin/hair/nail claims.
- Source clarity (marine or bovine) and where it's made.
Our collagen range
Our High Strength Collagen Peptides delivers 10g of hydrolysed collagen with Biotin, Zinc and Vitamin C — so the skin/hair/nail claims are properly anchored — plus glucosamine. If you prefer a pure Type I marine source, our Marine Collagen is hydrolysed marine peptides. For the science and the rules on the beauty angle, see collagen, skin, hair & nails: what the science (and the rules) say.
Written by Barry Lees, founder of The Health Improvers. This article is for general information and education only. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose, treat or prevent any condition. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet and healthy lifestyle. Always read the label.
Sources: GB Nutrition and Health Claims Register (Vitamin C, Biotin, Zinc); peer-reviewed literature on hydrolysed collagen bioavailability; British Nutrition Foundation.
Explore more in our Joint, Skin & Beauty range.
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