A new generation of collagen supplements has arrived: collagen tripeptides. They are the smallest possible form of collagen and are said to be more easily absorbed by the body and more effective at stimulating the body’s own collagen production—but is that true?

I may have had unrealistic expectations when I first tried collagen supplements. After taking them for months, I expected to look 10 years younger when I looked in the mirror. To say I was disappointed would be an understatement. I tried different formulas—marine collagen, bovine collagen, collagen peptides, collagen powder, capsules, gels, and even gummies—but I still wasn’t convinced. The results had yet to live up to the promises.

Collagen is controversial in supplement form, but what’s undeniable is its importance in skin structure and how it functions in our bodies. Often called the skin’s “scaffolding,” collagen makes up about 30% of the body’s total protein and supports the skin as well as bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other connective tissues. Yet as we get older, our natural collagen production declines starting around our mid-20s. This contributes to reduced skin firmness and elasticity, the appearance of fine lines, and effects on joint and connective tissue health.

With this in mind, it’s no wonder collagen supplements have become popular. But despite their quick adoption, there is still much uncertainty about their effectiveness, absorption, and whether they deliver meaningful benefits.

Enter collagen tripeptides, a newer generation of collagen supplements that have come to market and are billed as a more highly absorbable form. But what are they? Dermatologist Dr. Derrick Phillips explains, “Collagen tripeptides are very small fragments of collagen made up of just three amino acids. Conventional collagen peptides are also broken-down forms of collagen, but they contain a wider mixture of fragments of different sizes.”

But are they superior to other forms of collagen, and can they deliver more visible results? He notes that because of their smaller size, “some can be absorbed intact through the gut, while others are broken down further into smaller dipeptides and individual amino acids.” The expert highlights studies that have “detected both collagen-derived tripeptides and dipeptides in the bloodstream after they are consumed. There is also laboratory evidence suggesting that some of these collagen-derived peptides may influence fibroblasts, the cells in our skin that produce collagen and other structural components.”

Have a beauty or wellness trend you’re curious about? We want to know! Send Vogue’s senior beauty & wellness editor an email at beauty@vogue.com.

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs The Next Generation of Collagen Does It Actually Work

1 What is nextgeneration collagen
It refers to newer collagen productsusually collagen peptides vegan collagen builders or collagen combined with boosters like hyaluronic acid vitamin C or ceramidesdesigned to absorb better or do more than basic powders

2 Whats the difference between old and new collagen supplements
Older products were often large hardtoabsorb collagen molecules Newer ones use hydrolyzed peptides added cofactors and sometimes plantbased collagen builders that support your bodys own production

3 Does collagen actually work
Theres moderate evidence it can help skin elasticity and hydration and some evidence for joint comfort Results are modest and build over 812 weeks Its not a miracle cure but its not hype either

4 What does collagen do in the body
Collagen is a protein that gives structure to skin bones tendons and cartilage Supplements aim to supply building blocks your body can use

5 Can you really absorb collagen from a pill or powder
Not whole Your body breaks collagen into amino acids and small peptides then rebuilds what it needs Hydrolyzed peptides are absorbed more efficiently than plain gelatin

6 What are collagen peptides
Collagen thats been broken into short chains of amino acids They dissolve easily absorb well and are the form most studied in research

7 What is vegan collagen
Theres no true plant collagen These products contain ingredients that support your bodys own collagen production

8 How long until I see results
Most studies show changes in skin after 812 weeks of daily use Joint effects may take similar time Consistency matters more than dose

9 What are the main benefits
Possible improvements in skin hydration and elasticity reduced wrinkle depth better joint comfort and support for nail and hair strength Evidence is strongest for skin and joints

10 Does collagen help with wrinkles
Some studies show modest reductions in wrinkle depth and improved skin density after a few months It wont replace sunscreen or retinoids

11 Can collagen help joint pain
Some research suggests collagen peptides may