Can Men Take Collagen?

Collagen is often marketed toward women, especially in beauty and skincare products, but it’s just as beneficial for men — and in some cases, even more so. As the most abundant protein in the human body, collagen plays a key role in skin health, joint function, muscle recovery, and overall strength. So yes, men can take collagen — and many already do to support their health, fitness, and ageing.

What Is Collagen and Why Does It Matter?

Collagen is a structural protein found in skin, bones, tendons, and muscles. It keeps skin firm, joints flexible, and connective tissues strong. As we age, the body naturally produces less collagen — usually beginning in the mid-twenties — which leads to signs of ageing like wrinkles, weaker joints, and slower recovery after physical activity. Supplementing with collagen can help replace some of what the body loses over time.

Benefits of Collagen for Men

For men, collagen offers a range of benefits beyond skincare:

• Joint      support: Ideal for men who are active, lift weights, or experience      joint discomfort. Collagen helps maintain cartilage and reduce joint pain      over time.

• Muscle      recovery: Collagen contains glycine and arginine, amino acids that      support muscle repair and recovery after workouts.

• Skin      health: It can help improve skin elasticity and reduce fine lines,      helping skin appear firmer and more resilient.

• Hair      and beard growth: Some men report fuller hair or improved beard      thickness when taking collagen consistently.

• Gut      health: Certain collagen types may help support digestive lining,      which can be beneficial for those managing digestive issues.

Is Collagen Different for Men and Women?

The collagen itself isn’t different — but the marketing might be. Some products are branded for men with more neutral packaging or added ingredients like creatine or caffeine. What matters most is the type of collagen (typically Type I, II, or III) and how it fits your individual needs, not who it's marketed toward.

How to Take Collagen

Collagen supplements are available in powder, capsule, and liquid form. Powders are often preferred for their flexibility — they can be added to coffee, smoothies, or protein shakes without much taste. Hydrolysed collagen (also called collagen peptides) is easiest to digest and absorb. A daily dose of 5–10g is common, depending on your goals.

Are There Side Effects?

Collagen is generally well-tolerated, but it’s still important to check the label for added ingredients. Some products contain sweeteners or fillers that may not suit everyone. Mild bloating or digestive changes can occur at first, but these usually settle with regular use. Always choose a high-quality product from a reputable brand.

Can Men Take Collagen?

Collagen is often seen on shelves filled with skincare and wellness products targeted at women, but it's just as relevant for men. In fact, collagen is a foundational protein in the body that plays a role in everything from skin and joints to muscles and gut health. Despite the branding, there’s nothing inherently gendered about collagen. Men produce it, lose it with age, and benefit from supplementing it — just like women do.

Understanding What Collagen Does in the Male Body

Collagen is the body’s structural protein, making up a significant portion of skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and even blood vessels. It provides strength, elasticity, and resilience to these tissues. As men age, particularly after the age of 25, natural collagen production begins to decline gradually. This decline contributes to signs of ageing such as joint stiffness, slower recovery from exercise, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity. By supplementing with collagen, men can help support their body’s structure and slow down some of these changes.

Why Collagen Is Beneficial for Men

Many men focus on physical strength and performance, and collagen supports these goals by maintaining connective tissue, reducing joint pain, and aiding in recovery after training. For men who run, lift weights, cycle, or engage in physically demanding jobs, collagen can help reduce wear and tear on joints and support tendon resilience. It also contributes to muscle mass maintenance, especially when paired with regular exercise and a protein-rich diet.

There’s also a cosmetic benefit. Collagen supports skin elasticity and hydration, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines or sagging — something men notice more with age, even if they’re not typically skincare-focused. Beard and hair growth may also benefit from collagen’s role in supporting the keratin infrastructure, potentially leading to fuller, healthier growth.

How Men Can Supplement Collagen Effectively

Most men prefer practical, low-maintenance supplements. Collagen is available in powder form that easily mixes into coffee or protein shakes, or as capsules and liquid shots for convenience. Hydrolysed collagen peptides are the best absorbed by the body and are the most commonly recommended form. Daily supplementation, taken consistently over a period of weeks, is generally required to see and feel noticeable results.

There is no difference between “men’s collagen” and “women’s collagen” at the ingredient level — the variations are usually in flavour, packaging, or added compounds like creatine or caffeine. What matters more is the type of collagen (for example, Type I for skin and hair, Type II for joints) and the quality of the source. Men should look for collagen products that are free from fillers, unnecessary sweeteners, or low-quality additives.

Addressing Misconceptions About Collagen and Masculinity

One of the main reasons men might hesitate to take collagen is outdated thinking around masculinity and wellness. There’s a lingering perception that collagen is “for women” because it’s marketed as a beauty supplement. In reality, collagen plays a central role in male health — from supporting injury recovery and exercise performance to strengthening the gut lining and promoting healthy ageing. Choosing not to take a helpful supplement due to branding or social stigma simply doesn’t make sense when the science supports its benefits.

Long-Term Support for Ageing and Overall Health

As men move into their 30s, 40s, and beyond, collagen becomes even more relevant. It’s not just about aesthetics — it’s about functionality. Strong joints, flexible ligaments, smooth skin, and a healthy gut all contribute to better quality of life. Collagen doesn’t provide instant results, but when taken regularly, it can be part of a proactive approach to ageing well, staying active, and maintaining physical independence later in life.

Final Word

Men can absolutely take collagen, and they should — especially if they’re active, ageing, or looking to support overall health from the inside out. Collagen is not a gendered supplement; it’s a structural protein that benefits skin, joints, muscles, and more. Whether your goal is to improve recovery, maintain youthful skin, or just take better care of your body, collagen is a valuable and scientifically supported option.