Collagen for women: skin, hair, nails and what really works
Collagen has become the flagship of “beauty from within”. Marine or bovine, powder or gummies: here is how to choose it, dose it and build a formula that delivers on its promise while staying compliant.
- Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body: skin, bones, cartilage, tendons.
- Supplements use hydrolysed collagen (peptides), of marine or bovine origin.
- No health claim is authorised for collagen itself in Europe.
- Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin: this is the key claim.
- Biotin, zinc and selenium round out the formula for skin, hair and nails.
What is collagen?
Collagen is the body's structural protein: it gives strength and suppleness to skin, cartilage, tendons and bones. With age, and particularly at menopause, its natural production declines. Hence women's enthusiasm for collagen supplements.
Marine or bovine?
In every case, hydrolysed collagen is used, meaning it is broken down into peptides that dissolve more easily. There is no such thing as vegan collagen in the strict sense: “vegan” formulas provide nutrients that support the body's natural collagen production.
What you can say on the label
No health claim is authorised for collagen in Europe. The key to a compliant and convincing formula is pairing it with vitamins and minerals that carry authorised claims:
- Vitamin C: contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage and gums.
- Biotin: contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and hair.
- Zinc: contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, hair and nails.
- Selenium: contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and nails.
- Copper: contributes to normal hair and skin pigmentation.
How much collagen?
Products on the market generally provide 2.5 to 10 g of collagen peptides per day. Patented ingredients specify their own dose, based on their studies. A powder easily reaches 5 to 10 g; gummies and capsules deliver lower doses per unit.
2026 trends
- Collagen and menopause: dedicated formulas, often with vitamin D and calcium.
- Beauty gummies: collagen + vitamin C + biotin, with a fruity taste.
- Beauty drinks: flavoured powders, lattes, enriched waters.
- Collagen + hyaluronic acid: a highly sought-after duo.
- Collagen + creatine: the “strength and beauty” combo gaining ground among active women.
Create your private label beauty collagen
We manufacture your collagen formulas in France, from powders to gummies.
- Marine or bovine collagen, standard or patented peptides
- Flavoured powders, sticks, capsules, gummies, beauty drinks
- Formulas with vitamin C, biotin, zinc, hyaluronic acid
- Compliant claims drafted by our regulatory team
- ISO 22000 certified site
Frequently asked questions
Is collagen effective for the skin?
In Europe, no claim is authorised for collagen itself. Vitamin C, often added to collagen formulas, contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
Marine or bovine collagen: which should you choose?
Marine collagen is more premium and beauty-oriented; bovine collagen is more affordable and often used for joints and sport.
How much collagen per day?
Products generally provide 2.5 to 10 g of collagen peptides per day, depending on the ingredient used.
Is there such a thing as vegan collagen?
Not in the strict sense. Vegan formulas provide nutrients such as vitamin C that support the body's natural collagen production.
Does Irati Production make private label collagen?
Yes, as powders, sticks, capsules and gummies. Contact us for a quote.
This article is for information only and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Source: Regulation (EU) No 432/2012.