What Is Collagen, the "Beauty Food" You're Seeing in Everything?

Collagen is inside you, right now. Even if you've never taken it before and are like, "What is collagen?!" just know that the naturally occurring structural protein is already in your bones, skin, and teeth. But, these days, it can also be found in countless medicine cabinets and supplement stashes. The promise of collagen supplements is simple: longer nails, shinier hair, healthier joints. And, really, the appeal is undeniable. But what, exactly, make up those little powder packets? And, more importantly, how can you make them taste good?

Okay, what is it?

Collagen is a connective tissue compound, and the most abundant protein in mammals. It helps make up our bones, muscles, teeth, and skin—and collagen supplements aim to strengthen these exact body parts. The substantial presence of collagen in animals means that collagen supplements are frequently made from bovine hides and fish scales. Vegan options are rare, but they do exist.

Why we love it:

Stronger nails. Glowing skin. Rapunzel-level hair. Collagen purportedly accomplishes these things and more, hence its status as an ingestible beauty supplement. It’s important to note that, like many dietary supplements, many collagen products are not FDA-approved. Still, several studies have shown collagen does have beneficial effects on our bodies.

“If you eat clean, organic, animal-based protein several times a week, you’re probably getting enough collagen,” holistic nutritionist Kelly LeVeque told Healthyish. “But if your diet is more plant-based or you’re on the road and quality protein isn’t available, collagen powders and drinks can help fill in the gap.” As with any supplement, be sure to carefully examine product labels and consult with your doctor. Start off by consuming 20 grams of collagen a day, and repeat daily for best results.

What to look for:

Collagen supplements are widely available in health food stores, Whole Foods, and online. Powdered collagen is probably the most common form. Vital Proteins’ collagen peptides have won over several Healthyish staffers because it has a clean taste and mixes easily. (If you're buying powdered collagen, be sure to store it somewhere cool, dry, and dark.) If powder isn't your vibe, there are collagen-spiked protein bars, drinks, and candy chews. And if you’d prefer to go old school, there’s always bone broth.

How to use it:

Most collagen products advertise themselves as odorless and tasteless, but some products have a lingering fishy smell. The best course of action? Add powdered supplements to already delicious liquids that will overpower any, ahem, organic musk. (In other words, keep away from the tap water.) Tea or coffee work just fine, but we love adding collagen to a nightly cup of moon milk, blending it into a blueberry-chia smoothie, or using it to bolster a maple-ginger cider switchel. The powder can also mix into relatively loose solids like oatmeal and yogurt, making it a painless—and potentially beautifying—addition to your morning routine.

Blend up a collagen smoothie

The Greenest Smoothie

Make a collagen cocktail

Rosy Gin-Kombucha Cocktail

Or add collagen to your overnight oats

Overnight Oats with Cashews, Seeds, and Turmeric