Best Collagen for Men: Complete Guide for 2026

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The author is a licensed cosmetologist, not a medical professional. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.

When most people think of collagen supplements, they picture women focused on skincare. But collagen isn’t gendered, and men stand to benefit just as much from supplementation. In fact, many of the most promising collagen research areas, like joint health and muscle support, are particularly relevant to active men.

In this guide, I’ll cover what men should look for in a collagen supplement, which types make the most sense for different goals, and how to incorporate collagen into a practical routine. If you’re new to collagen entirely, start with our Collagen 101 Complete Guide for foundational knowledge.

Why Men Should Consider Collagen

Collagen makes up about 30% of the protein in your body. It’s the primary structural component of skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones. Starting in your mid-20s, your body produces roughly 1% less collagen each year, which contributes to many changes associated with aging.

For men specifically, several factors make collagen supplementation worth considering. Active lifestyles put stress on joints, tendons, and ligaments. Years of sun exposure without adequate protection accelerates skin collagen breakdown. And contrary to the stereotype that men don’t care about aging, many of my male clients are interested in maintaining healthy skin as they get older.

The research on collagen supplementation, while still evolving, shows promise in several areas relevant to men’s health goals.

Joint Health and Athletic Performance

If there’s one area where collagen supplementation makes particular sense for men, it’s joint support. Many men are active throughout their lives, and that activity takes a toll on connective tissues.

A frequently cited 2008 study followed athletes taking collagen hydrolysate for 24 weeks. Those taking collagen reported improvements in joint comfort during activity compared to the placebo group. This study is noteworthy because athletes put significant stress on their joints, making any protective or supportive effect more noticeable.

Type II collagen, found in chicken cartilage, is the primary collagen in human cartilage and may be particularly relevant for joint-focused goals. However, Type I collagen from bovine or marine sources also provides amino acids that support cartilage health.

If joint support is your primary goal, look for a collagen supplement that either contains Type II collagen specifically or provides a multi-collagen formula. Consistent daily use for at least 8-12 weeks is necessary to evaluate whether it’s helping.

Muscle Mass and Recovery

One of the more interesting research areas for men involves collagen’s potential role in supporting muscle mass, particularly when combined with resistance training.

A 2015 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition examined men taking collagen peptides while following a resistance training program. Compared to the placebo group, those taking collagen showed greater improvements in fat-free mass and muscle strength. The researchers suggested that collagen peptides may support the connective tissue surrounding muscle, potentially enhancing the effects of training.

It’s important to keep this in perspective. Collagen is not a replacement for adequate overall protein intake, which is far more important for muscle building. The essential amino acid profile of collagen is incomplete, so it shouldn’t be your primary protein source. Think of it as a potential complement to, not a substitute for, a protein-rich diet.

Skin Health for Men

Yes, men’s skin ages too. And while skincare has traditionally been marketed toward women, more men are paying attention to their skin health, and for good reason.

The research on collagen and skin health is actually the most robust area of collagen science. Multiple studies have shown improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle depth with consistent collagen supplementation over 8-12 weeks. These studies included both men and women, and the benefits aren’t gender-specific.

For men who’ve spent years in the sun without adequate protection, or who are noticing their skin becoming drier or less resilient with age, collagen supplementation may provide support. It won’t reverse sun damage or eliminate wrinkles, but it may help maintain skin hydration and elasticity over time.

Type I collagen, found in both bovine and marine sources, makes up about 80% of the collagen in human skin, making it the most relevant type for skin-focused goals. For more detail, see our Collagen for Skin guide.

Hair Loss and Collagen

Many men come to collagen hoping it will help with hair loss. I want to be straightforward about what you can realistically expect here.

Collagen provides amino acids, particularly proline, that serve as building blocks for keratin, the protein that makes up hair. The theory is that supplying these building blocks could support hair health. Some people report their hair feels thicker or stronger while taking collagen.

However, male pattern baldness is primarily driven by genetics and hormones, specifically the sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Collagen supplementation cannot change your genetics or alter hormone pathways. If you’re experiencing significant hair loss, that’s a conversation for a dermatologist or healthcare provider, not something a supplement can meaningfully address.

Where collagen might help is with overall hair quality and strength in areas where you still have hair. But expecting collagen to regrow hair or stop genetic hair loss will lead to disappointment.

What to Look for in a Men’s Collagen Supplement

Despite marketing suggesting otherwise, there’s no such thing as collagen specifically formulated for men. The collagen molecule is identical regardless of who takes it. Products marketed specifically to men are often the same formulas in different packaging.

What actually matters when choosing a collagen supplement includes the following considerations.

For joint and athletic focus, look for products containing Type II collagen from chicken sources, or multi-collagen formulas that include Type II alongside Types I and III. Some products also include additional joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine or hyaluronic acid.

For general health and skin, hydrolyzed collagen peptides from bovine or marine sources work well. Both provide Type I collagen, which is relevant for skin, tendons, and bones.

For muscle support, standard collagen peptides from any quality source will provide the amino acids used in the muscle-related research. What matters more is combining collagen with resistance training and adequate overall protein intake.

Regardless of your specific goal, look for third-party tested products from reputable brands that clearly state their collagen source. Avoid products with long lists of additives or vague ingredient information.

How to Take Collagen as a Man

The practical aspects of taking collagen are the same regardless of gender. Consistency matters more than timing, so find an approach that fits your routine.

Most research uses doses between 2.5 and 15 grams daily, with many studies using around 10 grams. Most collagen supplements provide 10-20 grams per serving, which falls within this range. Taking more isn’t necessarily better.

Popular approaches include adding unflavored collagen powder to morning coffee, which works well because quality collagen dissolves completely without affecting taste. Post-workout shakes are another option, especially if you’re focused on muscle support. Some men simply mix collagen into water or take capsules if they prefer convenience over higher doses.

Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, so ensure you’re getting adequate vitamin C through diet or supplementation. Many fruits and vegetables provide plenty of vitamin C, so if you eat a reasonably balanced diet, this likely isn’t an issue.

For specific timing and routine strategies, see our When to Take Collagen guide.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Before you start taking collagen, understand what you can realistically expect. Research shows modest improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and joint comfort with consistent use over 8-12 weeks. These improvements are real but subtle.

Collagen will not transform your appearance, reverse hair loss, or make you look decades younger. It’s one tool that may provide some support for your body’s connective tissues, not a miracle supplement.

Individual responses vary significantly. Some men notice improvements they can feel, particularly in joint comfort during activity. Others don’t notice much at all. Age, genetics, overall health, diet, and lifestyle all influence how your body responds.

The key is consistency. Taking collagen sporadically won’t produce results. Commit to at least 8-12 weeks of daily use before deciding whether it’s worthwhile for you.

Common Questions from Male Clients

Several questions come up repeatedly when I discuss collagen with men.

“Will collagen affect my testosterone?” There’s no evidence that collagen supplementation affects testosterone levels. Collagen is simply a protein that provides specific amino acids.

“Is collagen just for older guys?” Collagen production starts declining in your mid-20s, so starting supplementation earlier isn’t unreasonable. However, younger men with healthy diets and no joint issues may not notice much benefit. The research showing benefits primarily involves people over 30.

“Can I just eat more protein instead?” Collagen provides a specific amino acid profile different from other proteins. While overall protein intake is important, the research on collagen uses collagen specifically, not just increased protein. That said, if you’re not getting adequate protein overall, that should be your first priority.

The Bottom Line for Men

Collagen supplementation makes sense for men, particularly those focused on joint health, athletic performance, or maintaining skin health as they age. The research is most promising for joint support and skin hydration, with some evidence suggesting potential benefits for muscle mass when combined with resistance training.

Choose a quality hydrolyzed collagen from a reputable source. For joint focus, consider products with Type II collagen. For general health and skin, bovine or marine collagen peptides work well. Take it consistently for at least 8-12 weeks before evaluating results.

Don’t expect miracles. Collagen may provide modest support for your body’s connective tissues, but it’s not a substitute for overall good nutrition, adequate protein, regular exercise, and sun protection. It’s one piece of a larger picture.

Want to explore more? Check out our related guides:

• Collagen 101: Everything You Need to Know
• The Ultimate Guide to Collagen Peptides
• Collagen Benefits: What Research Shows
• Best Collagen Supplements
• When to Take Collagen
• Collagen for Joint Health

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Have questions about collagen for men? I’m happy to share general information and observations. Remember that specific health concerns, especially those related to joint conditions, hormone levels, or hair loss, should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.