Collagen is the most abundant type of protein found in our body. It provides our skin, bones, and joints shape and strength. [1]
As we age, our body’s natural collagen production decreases, contributing to aging symptoms, including wrinkles, joint discomfort, and brittle bones. Many people use collagen supplements, which come in liquid and powder form, to counteract these effects. [1][2]
In this article, we will look at liquid and powder collagen. We will discuss everything from their differences and benefits and determine which is the better form of collagen supplement.
Table of Contents
Liquid Collagen vs. Powder Collagen: Differences
Liquid collagen is typically hydrolyzed, which means it has been reduced into many smaller components that the body can absorb more easily. It is commonly offered in pre-made drinkable form or as an ingredient in beverages and smoothies. [3]
Powder collagen, on the other hand, is a powdered version of collagen that may be mixed into meals or drinks. It comes in two forms: hydrolyzed and unhydrolyzed, with the hydrolyzed version being quicker and more readily absorbed by the body. [3][4]
And given that it is already in a drinkable form, liquid collagen is more convenient for on-the-go use, whereas powder collagen is more versatile and can be mixed in with various beverages and foods.
However, the choice between liquid and powder collagen generally boils down to your own preference and ease of use. [4]
Liquid Collagen vs. Powder Collagen: Benefits
As we said previously, one benefit of liquid collagen is that it is more suitable for on-the-go use because it is already in a consumable form.
On the flip side, considering that it’s in the form of a powder, powder collagen is more flexible since you can add it to a wide range of meals and drinks. Some people also prefer the flavor of one particular form over the other. [4]
But aside from that, neither liquid nor powdered collagen offers any significant advantages over the other regarding health benefits. Since both forms offer the same advantages, such as better complexion, joint wellness, and boosting collagen production in the body. [1][2][4]
Liquid Collagen vs. Powder Collagen: Absorption
Hydrolyzed collagen, whether in liquid or powder form, has been demonstrated in studies to be more readily absorbed by the body than non-hydrolyzed collagen.
This is due to the hydrolyzation process, wherein the collagen is broken up into smaller peptides to make it much easier for the body to absorb and use. [3][5]
As a result, both liquid and powdered collagen that is hydrolyzed are taken in easier by our bodies compared to their unhydrolyzed counterparts.
However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of collagen supplements is also affected by what kind and the amount we take, along with our individual differences in metabolism and digestion. [3][5][6]
Liquid Collagen vs. Powder Collagen: Which One is Better for Hair Growth?
By supplying vital nutrients to hair follicles, the absorption of collagen by the body can increase the strength and flexibility of hair as well as promote hair development. [7]
If you really look into it, there isn’t much to compare between liquid and powdered collagen because they both have the same qualities that allow for healthier hair—making them both good choices for hair development.
However, some liquid collagen products might also include other components, like biotin, that help to support healthy hair further. [7][8]
Above all, it is crucial to remember that other elements like diet, stress, and genetics can also impact hair growth. As a result, you shouldn’t limit your attention to collagen supplementation. [6]
Liquid Collagen vs. Powder Collagen: Side Effects
Whether in liquid or powder form, collagen supplements are typically harmless and tolerated well by most people.
However, a few people might experience mild side effects like constipation, bloating, or diarrhea. Starting with a lower dosage and then increasing it periodically can help to reduce these adverse effects, which are usually temporary. [9] [10]
It’s also necessary to remember that since collagen supplements are manufactured from animal products, people with allergies to them should avoid taking them or find an alternative source, such as marine collagen. [5][11]
Bottomline: Liquid vs. Powder Collagen
In conclusion, collagen can help the health of your skin, hair, and joints in both liquid and powder form.
In the end, the decision between liquid and powder collagen essentially boils down to our own convenience and personal taste.
As with any supplement, it is very important to seek help from medical professionals first before deciding on which collagen supplement you want to consume. And this is especially true if you already take medication or have a history of medical conditions.
FAQs
It can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increase skin moisture and firmness, and boost overall skin health—resulting in improved skin elasticity, hydration, and overall look.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Asserin J, Lati E, Shioya T, Prawitt J. The effect of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin moisture and the dermal collagen network: evidence from an ex vivo model and randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2015 Dec;14(4):291-301. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12174. Epub 2015 Sep 12. PMID: 26362110.
- Bolke L, Schlippe G, Gerß J, Voss W. A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients. 2019 Oct 17;11(10):2494. doi: 10.3390/nu11102494. PMID: 31627309; PMCID: PMC6835901.
- León-López, A., Morales-Peñaloza, A., Martínez-Juárez, V. M., Vargas-Torres, A., Zeugolis, D. I., & Aguirre-Álvarez, G. (2019). Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 24(22), 4031. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24224031
- Sadowska A, Świderski F, Kulik K, Waszkiewicz-Robak B. Designing Functional Fruit-Based Recovery Drinks in Powder Form That Contain Electrolytes, Peptides, Carbohydrates and Prebiotic Fiber Taking into Account Each Component’s Osmolality. Molecules. 2021 Sep 15;26(18):5607. doi: 10.3390/molecules26185607. PMID: 34577078; PMCID: PMC8471852.
- Feng M, Betti M. Transepithelial transport efficiency of bovine collagen hydrolysates in a human Caco-2 cell line model. Food Chem. 2017 Jun 1;224:242-250. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.12.044. Epub 2016 Dec 18. PMID: 28159262.
- Schunck M, Zague V, Oesser S, Proksch E. Dietary Supplementation with Specific Collagen Peptides Has a Body Mass Index-Dependent Beneficial Effect on Cellulite Morphology. J Med Food. 2015 Dec;18(12):1340-8. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2015.0022. Epub 2015 Nov 12. PMID: 26561784; PMCID: PMC4685482.
- Anderegg U, Halfter N, Schnabelrauch M, Hintze V. Collagen/glycosaminoglycan-based matrices for controlling skin cell responses. Biol Chem. 2021 Jul 5;402(11):1325-1335. doi: 10.1515/hsz-2021-0176. PMID: 34218546.
- Patel DP, Swink SM, Castelo-Soccio L. A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss. Skin Appendage Disord. 2017 Aug;3(3):166-169. doi: 10.1159/000462981. Epub 2017 Apr 27. PMID: 28879195; PMCID: PMC5582478.
- Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz ML, Mesinkovsk NA. Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019 Jan 1;18(1):9-16. PMID: 30681787.
- Khatri M, Naughton RJ, Clifford T, Harper LD, Corr L. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids. 2021 Oct;53(10):1493-1506. doi: 10.1007/s00726-021-03072-x. Epub 2021 Sep 7. PMID: 34491424; PMCID: PMC8521576.
- Sorushanova A, Delgado LM, Wu Z, Shologu N, Kshirsagar A, Raghunath R, Mullen AM, Bayon Y, Pandit A, Raghunath M, Zeugolis DI. The Collagen Suprafamily: From Biosynthesis to Advanced Biomaterial Development. Adv Mater. 2019 Jan;31(1):e1801651. doi: 10.1002/adma.201801651. Epub 2018 Aug 20. PMID: 30126066.
