How to choose a hair, skin and nails supplement
Most products fall into three groups: collagen, single nutrients such as biotin, zinc and vitamins A, C and E, and oils or antioxidants such as evening primrose oil, astaxanthin and glutathione. Start by deciding which group you need.
Collagen: powder, capsules or tablets
Collagen powders such as Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides, NOW Foods Collagen Peptides and Revive MD CollaPure mix into coffee, water or smoothies and give the most collagen per serving. Capsules and tablets, like NeoCell Collagen Peptides or Swanson Marine Collagen, are easier to carry but provide less per piece. Marine collagen comes from fish and bovine collagen from cattle, so check the source if that matters to you. Type 2 collagen, such as Jarrow Formulas Type 2 Collagen, is aimed at cartilage and fits better with our joint support range.
What to compare on the label
- Amount per serving: biotin typically ranges from 5,000 to 10,000 mcg, and collagen from about 400 mg per capsule to 12–20 g per powder serving.
- Form of the nutrient: zinc comes as picolinate, citrate, gluconate, bisglycinate or orotate; vitamin C as ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate or Ester-C.
- Added co-factors: some collagen formulas add vitamin C, which contributes to normal collagen formation, or hyaluronic acid.
- Servings per container, so you can judge value across sizes.
How people typically use them
Collagen powders are usually taken once a day, while biotin, zinc and vitamin E are often taken with a meal. Follow each label's directions, avoid doubling up on products that contain the same nutrient, and check with your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing or taking medication. For everyday basics, browse our vitamins and minerals.
Hair, skin and nails FAQ
Should I choose biotin or collagen?
They do different jobs. Biotin is a B vitamin that contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and skin, while collagen is a protein people take for skin, hair and nail support. Vitamatic Liquid Collagen & Biotin combines both.
Are gummies a good option?
Gummies such as Vitamatic Biotin Gummies and Sundance Vitamins Hair, Skin & Nails Gummies suit people who dislike swallowing capsules, but compare the dose per gummy and the sugar content. See more in our gummy supplements.
