California Gold Nutrition's CollagenUP, sold on iHerb, is a collagen powder that combines hydrolysed marine collagen, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. The unflavoured supplement mixes into water or juice and has attracted a wave of positive customer reviews on the retailer's website.
One reviewer, a woman over 50, said her hairdresser had noticed the change. "I felt the results after a month of taking it: the condition of my hair improved, it became shiny and there was volume from the roots (which was not there before). I am over 50 years old and I am very satisfied with the condition of my hair and skin after taking this collagen. My hairdresser was also impressed with the changes for the better."
CollagenUP prices
The 205g tub costs £16.07 as a one-off purchase, or £14.46 for those who subscribe and save. The 462g option is priced at £34.17 for a single purchase, dropping to £30.75 on subscription. The largest 997g size is £71.10 one-off, or £63.99 with a subscription.
What the research says
A 2023 meta-analysis published by MDPI, a peer-reviewed open access journal, reviewed 26 trial studies and found that collagen "significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity compared to the placebo group."
More customer reviews
A second reviewer said the product had become an essential part of her routine. "An indispensable product. This is my most frequently purchased item from iHerb. I absolutely cannot live without it. I've been using it for almost 10 years now. I'm in my late 40s, but every hairdresser I go to compliments me on how beautiful my hair is. If I don't take this for a week, my skin becomes wrinkled and rough. I know it may or may not work for everyone, but it seems to suit me very well. iHerb, please keep selling this product. It's great value for money. Thank you."
Another customer praised how easily the powder mixes. "I love how easily this mixes into my morning drink, no taste, no clumps, just a pure glow from within. My hair feels stronger too!"
A third reviewer, who said she is going to be 72 this year, described benefits beyond hair. "I ordered this product because I want to keep my bones flexible and joints well-cushioned. Since I started taking a scoop nightly, I have noticed that my skin, hair and nails look much better. I am going to be 72 this year, but I now look about 20 years younger. After I went for a haircut, my hairdresser asked me to order 6 tubs for her, her parents, her sisters and her coworkers!"
Another reviewer reported improvements in skin and nails. "Excellent collagen! I've been using it for a while now. It dissolves easily, is tasteless and odourless, and is easy to drink. It contains marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C-an excellent combination for skin and joints. My skin has become more hydrated and elastic, and my nails and hair have noticeably strengthened. Results are visible within just a few weeks. I definitely recommend it."
Not all feedback was positive, however, with some customers voicing their dislike of the flavour.
High street alternatives
For shoppers who prefer buying in person, Holland and Barrett is currently selling Bovine Collagen 3000mg 30 Tablets at £6.14, down from £8.19. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Unflavoured Powder 567g is also reduced, from £49.99 to £34.99.
