When to take Collagen
Also known as Hydrolyzed collagen, Collagen peptides, Marine collagen
Collagen can be taken at any time of day, with or without food, because skin studies did not compare times. What matters is taking it every day for at least 8 to 12 weeks, the length of most skin studies.
Last reviewed October 13, 2026
Timing
| Best time | Any time of day |
|---|---|
| Food | With or without food |
| Fat-soluble | No |
- Any time; consistency matters more than timing.
- In a 2023 review, skin results were stronger with use longer than 8 weeks. Six weeks showed no clear effect on skin stretchiness (elasticity).
- Another review found the clearest results after a 12-week routine.
Check with your doctor first if…
- Fish allergy: one person with eczema (atopic dermatitis) had a severe allergic reaction after taking a fish collagen supplement. If you have a fish allergy, check where the collagen comes from.
- Some people notice an unpleasant taste or stomach upset.
Amounts studied
Skin trials used about 0.3 g to 12 g a day of hydrolyzed collagen for 2 to 16 weeks; one review summed up the range used for skin as 300 mg to 5 g a day.
Follow the serving size on your product’s label.
What the research says
| Area | Evidence | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Skin hydration | Moderate | A 2023 review of 26 trials with 1,721 people found hydrolyzed collagen improved skin moisture compared with placebo. The authors noted some study bias and called for larger trials.[1] |
| Skin elasticity | Moderate | A 2023 review of 14 trials with 967 people found better skin elasticity with collagen than with placebo, with the clearest results after a 12-week routine.[2] |
| Skin wrinkles | Limited | A 2023 review of 14 trials found a small improvement in wrinkles, while skin firmness did not change clearly.[2] |
Questions
When is the best time to take collagen?
Studies did not test morning versus night or with versus without food. Take it at a time you will remember every day.
How long does collagen take to work for skin?
Most skin studies lasted 8 to 12 weeks. A 2023 review found stronger results after more than 8 weeks, and 6 weeks showed no clear effect on elasticity.
Can I take collagen every day?
Yes, skin studies gave it daily for up to 12 to 16 weeks. A 2023 review said none of the studies it looked at reported side effects from collagen.
Does the type of collagen matter?
One review found the effect on skin moisture varied by source, with fish collagen doing best. The source did not clearly change the effect on elasticity.
Can I take collagen if I have a fish allergy?
Be careful with fish (marine) collagen. A severe allergic reaction has been reported after a fish collagen supplement. Check the label and ask your doctor.
Plan your whole routine
Add Collagen and everything else you take to the planner to see your morning, midday and evening, and what to keep apart.
Open the plannerFrom AT2A
Sources
- Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Nutrients, 2023), PMC (accessed October 13, 2026)
- Exploring the Impact of Hydrolyzed Collagen Oral Supplementation on Skin Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Cureus, 2023), PMC (accessed October 13, 2026)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is general information, not medical advice: talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, take medicine or have a health condition.