The Complete Guide to Vital Proteins Collagen
What is Collagen and Why Do We Need It?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up 30% of total protein content. This fibrous protein is a major component of connective tissues like skin, bones, tendons and ligaments. It provides structure, strength and elasticity to our body.
However, collagen production starts declining around age 25, leading to common signs of aging over time like wrinkles, sagging skin, brittle nails, stiff joints and weakened bones. Consuming collagen supplements can help compensate for this natural loss.
Multiple studies validate benefits: a systematic review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found ingestible collagen peptide supplements increase skin hydration, elasticity and dermal collagen density. They also support hair growth and nail health.
"Collagen supplementation is a safe and effective way to counteract age-related collagen loss. It improves skin quality through increased moisture, elasticity and production of new collagen fibers." – Dr. Shirley Madhere, Dermatologist
An Overview of Vital Proteins
Founded in 2013 in Chicago, Vital Proteins is now an industry leader in collagen supplements and wellness products. They use high quality sources like grass-fed bovine hides and wild-caught fish scales.
Vital Proteins stands out with their commitment to sustainability and transparent sourcing. Their collagen, for example, comes from grass-fed, antibiotic and hormone-free cows with regenerative grazing practices that promote soil health. The Marine Collagen is sustainably wild-caught.
Top 5 Bestselling Products from Vital Proteins
Here is an in-depth analysis of the key ingredients, efficacy data and cost breakdown of Vital Proteins‘ most popular products:
1. Collagen Peptides
Key Ingredients: Collagen peptides from grass-fed bovine hide + Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid
Benefits: Improves skin hydration and elasticity. Supports hair, nail and joint health.
Efficacy: Multiple studies confirm collagen peptide supplements increase collagen density, skin moisture and elasticity while reducing wrinkles. A Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology study found noticeable results within 4 weeks.
Cost Breakdown:
- $18 for 20 oz tub (20 servings) = $0.90 per serving
- With Subscribe & Save discount = $14 per tub
2. Marine Collagen
Key Ingredient: Collagen from wild-caught whitefish scales and skin
Benefits: Strengthens skin, hair, nails and bones. Easily absorbed. Good for pescatarians.
Efficacy: Fish collagen peptides boost collagen protein synthesis in skin based on clinical studies. Results can be noticeable in 2-4 weeks.
Cost Breakdown:
- $27 for 7.8 oz pouch (20 servings) = $1.35 per serving
- With discount = $2.03 per serving
3. Beef Liver Capsules
Key Ingredients: Grass-fed beef liver + Vitamin B12 + Folate + Vitamin A
Benefits: Supports energy, skin health, protein metabolism, brain function and heart health
Efficacy: Liver is nature‘s most concentrated source of Vitamin A shown to benefit skin. It also provides iron, zinc and antioxidants that boost immunity and energy levels based on studies.
Cost Breakdown:
- $18 for 120 capsules (30 servings) = $0.60 per serving
- Subscribe & Save brings this down to $0.45 per serving
4. Matcha Collagen
Key Ingredients: Collagen peptides + Matcha green tea powder
Benefits: Boosts skin elasticity, youthful appearance and antioxidant protection
Efficacy: Research shows matcha collagen improves skin elasticity and provides 137x more antioxidants than regular green tea to prevent aging.
Cost Breakdown:
- $37 for 10 oz tub (20 servings) = $1.85 per serving
- Subscribe & Save discount brings this down to $1.48 per serving
5. Wellness Shots
Key Ingredients: Collagen peptides + Prebiotics + Elderberry + Vitamin D3 + Vitamin C
Benefits: Supports immunity, gut health and collagen formation
Efficacy: The combination of collagen with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants makes an efficacious formula for overall wellness. However, more research is needed on the shots.
Cost Breakdown:
- $47 for 12 shots (2-week supply) = $1.96 per shot
- Subscribe & Save lowers this to $1.57 per shot
So in summary, Vital Proteins leverages science-backed ingredients at an affordable cost. Subscribe & Save and Loyalty Rewards programs make it even more budget-friendly long-term.
How Vital Proteins Compares to Alternatives
Here is how Vital Proteins stacks up against leading competitors Ancient Nutrition and Further Foods:
| Vital Proteins | Ancient Nutrition | Further Foods | |
| Sourcing | Grass-fed, pasture-raised | Grass-fed, organic | Grass-fed, non-GMO verified |
| Price Per Serving | $0.90 – $1.96 | $1.16 – $2.33 | $0.92 – $1.60 |
| Product Range | Collagen supplements + wellness products | Bone broths + collagen + nutrients | Collagen supplements + protein |
| Loyalty Program | Subscribe & Save: 15% off | Subscribe & Save: 30% off | Subscribe & Save: 20% off |
| Certifications | Sustainable + ethically sources | Organic, non-GMO | Non-GMO verified |
Vital Proteins comes out favorably with excellent sourcing standards, competitive pricing with savings programs and a diverse product line for whole body wellness.
What Real Customers Are Saying
Reviews from verified purchasers largely reflect the efficacy and benefits discussed earlier.
On Influenster, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides holds a 4.8/5 stars based on over 1500 reviews. 78% give it a full 5 stars. Customers praise the positive effects on skin, nail growth, hair health and joint pain relief. Others appreciate the unflavored, neutral taste.
Negative reviews focus on lack of results, generally from improper use (not taking consistently). There are also some complaints about the cost.
On Amazon, the Peptides have a 4.5/5 average across 30,000+ ratings. Multiple older adults comment on visibly firmer skin, reduced joint pain and healthier hair from long-term use.
However, there are inconsistencies in product packaging and quality noted by some which Vital Proteins should address.
Here are social media pictures demonstrating dramatic before/after results posted by Vital Proteins customers:
So while individual results can vary, the majority of customers confirm real, noticeable benefits especially with consistent long-term usage.
The Final Takeaway
Vital Proteins offers science-backed collagen and wellness supplements with high standards around quality and sustainability. Their products live up to promises on improving skin, hair, nails, joints and overall well-being based on ingredient efficacy and customer testimonials.
At under $2 per serving, their costs outweigh benefits for most individuals especially with subscribe-and-save discounts.
Vital Proteins makes an excellent choice for a collagen supplement brand providing whole body support. Those struggling with natural collagen loss due to aging are likely to appreciate the noticeable improvements from adding this into their routine.
