Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for about 30% of total protein content. It plays a critical role in maintaining skin elasticity, joint strength, muscle function, and the structural integrity of bones and connective tissues. But as we age, our body’s ability to produce collagen naturally declines—especially after 60 and sharply for women after menopause.
To support collagen production, many people turn to supplements. While scientific research is still developing around collagen supplementation, many users report improved skin texture, stronger nails, and reduced joint discomfort.
What is Collagen and Why It Matters
Collagen is formed by three key amino acids: proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, which form a triple helix structure essential for maintaining healthy tissues. To build this structure, your body also needs vitamin C, zinc, copper, and manganese.
Its main roles include:
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Supporting skin elasticity and hydration
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Helping repair body tissues
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Forming the structure of bones and cartilage
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Strengthening tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels
There are at least 28 types of collagen, but the most important for supplementation are:
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Type I: Found in skin, bones, tendons (90% of body collagen)
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Type II: Found in cartilage, supports joints
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Type III: Found in muscles, arteries, and internal organs
What Damages Collagen?
Several lifestyle factors can accelerate collagen degradation:
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Excessive sun exposure
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Smoking
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High sugar diets
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Chronic stress
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Excess alcohol consumption
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Poor sleep habits
Top 5 Collagen Supplements in South Africa (2025)
If you’re looking to supplement your body’s collagen levels, here are the top collagen products available in South Africa, based on quality, user reviews, and formulation.
1. Peptiglo Premium Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides
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Type: Bovine (Type I & III)
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Benefits: Skin elasticity, stronger hair and nails, joint support
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Why it’s great: Clean formulation, high bioavailability, dissolves easily
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Where to buy: Online retailers including Takealot
2. MojoMe Marine Collagen Powder
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Type: Marine (Type I)
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Benefits: Anti-aging, wrinkle reduction, bone strength
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Why it’s great: Derived from wild fish, non-GMO, unflavored
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Where to buy: Health stores and online in SA
3. Biogen Collagen Peptides
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Type: Bovine (Type I & III) + Vitamin C
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Benefits: Joint support, active recovery, skin repair
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Why it’s great: Popular among athletes, easy to mix with smoothies or shakes
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Where to buy: Dis-Chem, Clicks, Takealot
4. The Harvest Table Multi-Collagen Granules
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Type: Types I, II, III, V, X (bovine & marine blend)
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Benefits: Comprehensive support—skin, gut, joints, nails
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Why it’s great: Sourced responsibly, keto-friendly
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Where to buy: Harvest Table website, Faithful to Nature
5. Naked Collagen by Beauty Gen
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Type: Bovine (Type I & III)
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Benefits: Skin firmness, hair growth, nail strength
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Why it’s great: Pure collagen peptides, no additives or sweeteners
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Where to buy: Wellness Warehouse, Takealot
Pro Tip:
While supplements help, a well-balanced diet rich in amino acids and vitamin C (from foods like citrus, berries, leafy greens, and bone broth) is essential to support your body’s natural collagen production.
Cleveland Clinic Note: “Collagen accounts for 30% of your body’s protein. It provides structure, support or strength to your skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues. Scientific research is lacking for most collagen supplements, but a well-balanced diet gives your body the raw ingredients it needs to help it make collagen naturally.”
— Cleveland Clinic (non-profit academic medical center)
Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions.