Hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides are the cornerstone of CollagenUP®, a supplement targeting age-related declines in skin elasticity and joint function. Collagen, particularly type I, is the most abundant structural protein in skin, tendons, and cartilage, and its degradation over time contributes to wrinkles, dryness, and joint discomfort. Oral supplementation with hydrolyzed collagen has been shown to be absorbed efficiently, accumulating in connective tissues and stimulating fibroblasts and chondrocytes to produce new extracellular matrix components.
Clinical studies typically use doses between 5–10 g/day of collagen peptides to observe significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and joint pain. While CollagenUP® provides 5 g per serving—on the lower end of this range—it aligns with the minimal effective dose observed in some trials. The addition of vitamin C is critical, as it acts as a cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase enzymes essential for collagen stabilization. Hyaluronic acid further supports skin and joint integrity by enhancing moisture retention and synovial fluid viscosity.
Quick Summary
All ingredients are fully disclosed with exact amounts per serving. There are no proprietary blends, allowing for accurate evaluation of dosing and clinical relevance.
The primary ingredient, hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides, is provided at 5 g per serving, which is at the lower end of the clinically studied range (5–10 g). While not optimal, this dose may still support skin and joint health over time, especially when combined with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Supporting ingredients are dosed appropriately to enhance primary effects.
Hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides are highly bioavailable, with studies showing rapid absorption and tissue distribution. Vitamin C enhances collagen stability, and low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid is well-absorbed orally, contributing to high overall bioavailability.
All ingredients are safe at the provided doses, with no known serious adverse effects. Vitamin C may enhance iron absorption, which is a consideration for individuals with hemochromatosis.
Suggested: 1 serving/day to reach clinical midpoint
Why Take This Product
Key Benefits
- Improved Skin Hydration and Elasticity: Daily intake of hydrolyzed collagen peptides has been shown to significantly improve skin hydration and elasticity within 8–12 weeks. A randomized trial found that 1000 mg of low-molecular-weight collagen peptide improved skin moisture and reduced wrinkles after 12 weeks [4]. Though CollagenUP® provides a higher dose (5 g), similar mechanisms are expected, particularly when combined with hyaluronic acid, which enhances dermal water retention [5].
- Reduced Joint Pain and Stiffness: Oral collagen supplementation has demonstrated analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in individuals with osteoarthritis or activity-related joint pain. A 12-week trial using 10 g/day of collagen peptides reported significant improvements in knee pain and function [3]. While CollagenUP® provides half that dose, lower doses may still offer benefit, especially when used consistently over time.
- Support for Collagen Synthesis via Vitamin C: Vitamin C is essential for the hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues during collagen formation. At 90 mg per serving, CollagenUP® provides 100% of the Daily Value, ensuring that collagen synthesis is not limited by micronutrient deficiency. Supplementation with vitamin C has been shown to enhance antioxidant defenses and support connective tissue repair [8].
- Enhanced Tissue Hydration with Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid plays a key role in maintaining skin turgor and joint lubrication. Oral supplementation with low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid has been shown to improve skin hydration and reduce knee pain in individuals with mild osteoarthritis [6]. The 60 mg dose in CollagenUP® exceeds typical supplemental levels (often 50–100 mg), suggesting potential efficacy in moisture retention.
Who Should Take This
Potential Side Effects
Ingredient Breakdown
The formulation combines hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides as the primary active ingredient, supported by hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to enhance bioavailability and functional outcomes. All ingredients are included in disclosed amounts, allowing for accurate assessment of dosing relative to clinical evidence.
Primary Ingredients
Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen Peptides
Support skin and joint health
The 5 g dose is at the lower end of the clinically effective range (5–10 g) studied for skin and joint benefits. Trials using 10 g/day show greater improvements in pain and skin elasticity [3], but 5 g may still be effective with prolonged use, especially in combination with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid [5].
Bioavailable collagen fragments that stimulate fibroblast activity and support extracellular matrix production.
Supporting Ingredients
There are 3 supporting ingredients.
Practical Recommendations
- Consistent Daily Use: For optimal results, take one serving daily with water or a beverage. Effects on skin and joints typically become noticeable after 8–12 weeks of continuous use.
- Pair With A Balanced Diet: Support collagen synthesis further by consuming adequate protein, vitamin C-rich fruits, and healthy fats. Avoid smoking and excessive sun exposure, which accelerate collagen breakdown.
- Consider Timing: Some evidence suggests collagen absorption may be enhanced when taken on an empty stomach or with vitamin C. Taking CollagenUP® in the morning or post-workout may optimize tissue repair.
Is it Safe?
The product contains ingredients with strong safety profiles at the provided doses. Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid have wide safety margins, and marine collagen is generally recognized as safe. No known severe interactions are associated with this combination, though individuals on anticoagulants or with seafood allergies should exercise caution.
Safety & Considerations
- Iron Absorption: Vitamin C can increase non-heme iron absorption; individuals with hemochromatosis or iron overload should consult a healthcare provider.
- Allergy: Marine collagen is derived from fish; individuals with seafood allergies should avoid this product.
The Science
Efficacy hinges on the dose and bioavailability of hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides. While 5 g is at the lower end of the clinically studied range (5–10 g), it represents a meaningful dose that may yield benefits over time, particularly when combined with synergistic nutrients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
Collagen peptide supplementation improved WOMAC scores in knee osteoarthritis patients.
Oral hydrolyzed fish collagen improved skin texture and elasticity in aging individuals.
10 g/day of collagen peptides reduced knee pain and improved function in active adults over 12 weeks.
Low-molecular-weight collagen peptide (1000 mg/day) improved skin hydration and reduced wrinkles after 12 weeks.
Combination of 5 g hydrolyzed collagen, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid improved skin parameters over 16 weeks.
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