Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Review: I Tested It for 90 Days

Quick Verdict: After 90 days of daily use, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides delivered noticeable improvements in skin hydration (week 4), nail strength (week 6), and skin elasticity (week 10). While not a miracle product, consistent users will likely see gradual benefits. Best for those seeking joint support and skin health improvements. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Scrolling through my Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides review, you'll notice something unusual—I actually tested this popular supplement for a full 90 days before sharing my thoughts.

Collagen has certainly become the beauty industry's darling, promising everything from glowing skin to stronger nails. Despite the hype surrounding collagen benefits for skin, many remain skeptical—does collagen work, or is it just clever marketing? While collagen for hair growth and collagen peptides for nails sound impressive, but real results often tell a different story. That's why I committed to three months of daily use, documenting changes with photos and detailed notes along the way.

Through this hands-on review, I'll share exactly what changed (and when), how it affected my workout recovery, and whether this supplement is worth your hard-earned money. If you've been curious about this bestselling collagen powder but hesitant to try it, my experience might help you decide if it deserves a spot in your daily routine.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Product Overview and Key Specs

Before diving into my experience, let's examine what makes Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides unique among the many collagen supplements flooding the market today.

Collagen Type and Source: Bovine, Types I & III

The foundation of this supplement is bovine collagen derived from cow hides. This might sound unappealing, however, it's actually ideal since bovine sources provide the crucial Types I and III collagen that together make up over 90% of the collagen in our bodies. Type I collagen primarily supports skin, hair, nails, and bones, while Type III reinforces skin, muscles, and blood vessels. Unlike some competitors, Vital Proteins uses hydrolyzed collagen, meaning it's broken down into smaller peptides that your body can absorb more efficiently—with absorption rates potentially exceeding 90% compared to only 2.7% in food sources.

Serving Size and Nutritional Breakdown

Each standard serving consists of two scoops (approximately 20g), delivering 18 grams of protein. The nutritional profile is impressive, containing a complete amino acid profile including glycine (3,719mg), proline (2,076mg), and hydroxyproline (2,058mg)—the building blocks your body needs to produce collagen naturally. This provides approximately 10 grams of collagen peptides per serving, making it a substantial daily dose compared to some supplements that offer as little as 2.5 grams.

Added Ingredients: Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid

Although the original formula contains just one ingredient, I opted for the Advanced formula which includes two powerful additions. First, it contains 100% of your daily value of Vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and helps promote collagen production. Second, it includes 120mg of hyaluronic acid, known for its skin hydration and elasticity. According to research, while these ingredients are beneficial independently, studies haven't confirmed that hyaluronic acid significantly enhances collagen's effects beyond what collagen alone provides.

Packaging and Mixability

Vital Proteins offers several packaging options—from 9.33oz canisters (providing about 14 servings) to larger 20oz containers (approximately 28 servings), as well as convenient stick packs for on-the-go use. However, what truly distinguishes this product is its mixability. Unlike many collagen powders that clump or leave a gritty texture, this dissolves remarkably well in both hot and cold liquids. Throughout my testing, I found it mixed seamlessly into coffee, smoothies, and even plain water without leaving any lumps. The powder is virtually tasteless and odorless, making it easy to incorporate into various recipes. It dissolves particularly well in warm liquids.

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90-Day Testing Experience: What Changed and When

Now for the main part—tracking what actually happened during my three-month trial with this popular supplement. Unlike many reviews that only cover a week or two of use, I documented changes throughout the entire 90-day period to see exactly when benefits appeared.

Week 1–4: Initial Impressions and Skin Hydration

The first noticeable change came about three weeks in, primarily with skin moisture. Studies show that collagen supplementation can significantly improve skin hydration even at early stages. Initially, I was skeptical about seeing quick results, yet by week four, my typically dry skin felt consistently more hydrated without changing my skincare routine.

Week 5–8: Nail Strength and Joint Comfort

During this period, the most remarkable improvement occurred in my nails. Research indicates daily collagen intake can increase broken nail frequency by up to 42%. By week six, my previously brittle nails stopped peeling and breaking. This aligns with clinical studies showing that bioactive collagen peptides promote increased nail growth rate while simultaneously reducing frequency of broken nails.

Week 9–12: Skin Elasticity and Overall Glow

The final month brought the most visible changes to skin appearance. Studies demonstrate that long-term collagen use (beyond 8 weeks) produces more favorable results than shorter periods. Skin elasticity improvements became apparent around week ten, which matches research showing statistically significant increases in skin elasticity among collagen users. My skin texture also appeared more refined—a change supported by clinical trials measuring improved elasticity parameters.

How I Took It: Dosage, Timing, and Mixing Tips

Throughout testing, I followed a consistent routine:

20g (two scoops) daily, usually in morning coffee

Occasionally mixed into smoothies on workout days

Always stirred until fully dissolved to prevent clumping

Research suggests consistent daily use is key for seeing results. The powder dissolved easily in both hot and cold liquids, making it versatile enough to incorporate into various recipes. Unlike some supplements that require precise timing, I found taking it anytime before noon worked effectively for maintaining consistent levels.

Performance and Recovery: Does It Help with Exercise?

Beyond skin and nail improvements, I was curious about how Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides might affect my workout recovery. As an active person, this aspect proved equally interesting throughout my 90-day test.

Muscle Soreness After Workouts

The research on collagen's impact on muscle soreness presents mixed results. Throughout my testing period, I noticed only subtle differences in post-workout recovery time. This aligns with scientific findings showing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) scores after exercise were similar between groups taking collagen and those not. Nevertheless, some studies have demonstrated large effect sizes on reducing muscle soreness with collagen at 24h (ES = 2.40) and 48h (ES = 2.64) post-exercise. In my experience, any benefits were modest compared to the skin and nail improvements.

Joint Pain During High-Impact Activities

The most noticeable exercise-related benefit appeared in joint comfort. After about six weeks, I experienced less discomfort during high-impact cardio sessions. Research supports this observation, as studies have found collagen peptide supplementation significantly decreases joint pain across exercise duration ranges from 10 minutes to over one hour of free exercise duration. For those with joint issues, this benefit alone might justify the investment, especially considering hydrolyzed collagen has been shown to decrease joint pain during physical activity.

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Comparison with Whey and Other Proteins

If muscle building is your primary goal, be aware that Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides functions differently than whey protein. Studies indicate whey protein has a greater impact on muscle growth than collagen. Conversely, collagen appears superior for connective tissue health and maintaining positive nitrogen balance. I found it worked best as a supplement to, rather than replacement for, my regular protein intake. Consider your fitness objectives carefully—whey remains superior for muscle protein synthesis, while collagen offers unique benefits for joint health and recovery.

Is It Worth the Price? Value, Alternatives, and Final Thoughts

After trying this supplement for three months, one crucial question remains: is it worth the investment? Let's analyze the numbers and alternatives.

Cost per Serving and Monthly Spend

As of October 2025, pricing varies significantly depending on where you shop. Budget retailers like Medino offer the lowest price at £33.99, whereas premium outlets such as Holland & Barrett charge nearly £50.71. The sweet spot appears to be around £15-£16 per tub when choosing competitive retailers. In Australia, expect to pay around AUD 76.43 for a 567g container. With approximately 28 servings per large-format tub, the monthly cost ranges from £30-£45 depending on your purchase source.

Comparison with Other Collagen Brands

In terms of value, Vital Proteins stands out for its:

Higher protein content (20g per serving)

Neutral flavor and superior mixability

Addition of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid

Among alternatives, Innermost The Glow (£29.95) and Shreddy's vegan option (£38) offer comparable quality, yet neither matches Vital Proteins' established reputation as the "#1 Collagen Brand in Australian Pharmacies".

Who Should Consider Buying It?

First and foremost, this product is ideal for those seeking proven skin elasticity, nail strength, and joint support benefits. Given my 90-day experience, individuals consistent with daily use will likely see the best results. Consequently, it's particularly valuable for those with brittle nails, dry skin, or joint discomfort during exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

1. How do I use Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides in my daily routine?

Mix 1-2 scoops (approximately 20g) into your morning coffee, smoothie, water, yogurt, or any beverage. The powder dissolves easily and is virtually flavorless, making it simple to incorporate into your daily routine without changing the taste of your drinks or food.

2. When will I start seeing results from taking collagen peptides?

Most users notice improvements in skin hydration and smoothness within 4-6 weeks of daily use. Benefits for hair strength and nail growth typically appear around 8-12 weeks. The most significant results for skin elasticity, joint comfort, and overall appearance are usually visible after 90 days of consistent supplementation.

3. Can I take Vital Proteins Collagen if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

While collagen peptides are generally considered safe and are a naturally occurring protein, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement during pregnancy or while breastfeeding to ensure it's appropriate for your specific situation.

4. Is Vital Proteins Collagen suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are gluten-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, and paleo-friendly, making them suitable for many dietary preferences. However, they are derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine (cow) sources, so they're not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those avoiding animal products.

5. Where can I buy Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides in Australia?

Vital Proteins products are available through Amazon Australia, select pharmacies, health food stores, and online specialty retailers. Amazon Australia often offers competitive pricing and fast delivery. Check current availability and customer reviews before purchasing.

6. Can I mix collagen peptides with hot beverages like coffee or tea?

Yes! Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are heat-stable and dissolve beautifully in hot beverages including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and soups without losing their effectiveness. The peptides remain bioactive even when exposed to heat, so you can enjoy them in your favorite warm drinks.

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Conclusion

After three months of consistent use, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides certainly delivers on many of its promises. The gradual progression of benefits throughout my 90-day experiment showed genuine results—patience truly pays off with this supplement. Most skin and nail improvements became noticeable between weeks 5-8, while the full skin elasticity effects emerged around week 10.

The question remains: does collagen work? Based on my documented experience, the answer leans toward yes—though not overnight. Consequently, anyone expecting instant results might feel disappointed. The most impressive changes occurred with my previously brittle nails, which stopped breaking entirely, and my skin's overall hydration and elasticity.

Joint comfort during high-impact workouts also improved significantly, making this supplement particularly valuable for active individuals. However, those primarily seeking muscle recovery benefits might find the effects less dramatic compared to the skin and nail improvements.

Price-wise, Vital Proteins sits at a premium position in the market. Nevertheless, the higher protein content per serving, exceptional mixability, and addition of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid help justify the cost for many users. Smart shoppers can actually save £15-16 per container by comparing retailers rather than purchasing at premium outlets.

Overall, this collagen supplement proves worthwhile for anyone committed to daily use over several months. The benefits accumulate gradually but noticeably. My experience confirms that consistency matters more than timing—whether mixed into morning coffee or post-workout shakes, results eventually appeared.

Though not a miracle product, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides delivers tangible improvements for those willing to incorporate it into their daily routine long-term. The combination of strengthened nails, hydrated skin, and joint support makes this a worthy investment, especially for individuals experiencing age-related collagen decline or those putting regular stress on their bodies through exercise.

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Affiliate Disclaimer
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I have personally used, tested, or researched in depth, and my opinions are my own. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice; always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement.