Pro Collagen+

Tripeptides, not peptides

Standard collagen supplements deliver hydrolysed collagen in fragments of mixed length that the gut has to break down further before anything is absorbed. Pro Collagen+ supplies collagen as tripeptides, chains of three amino acids such as glycine-proline-hydroxyproline, which are the fragments found in the bloodstream after collagen is eaten and the ones shown to signal fibroblasts to produce new collagen and hyaluronic acid. Vida Glow's claim of five times the potency of standard peptides rests on that absorption difference.

The supporting bench

Sodium hyaluronate adds an oral hyaluronic acid dose for skin water content, bromelain and kiwi enzymes assist protein digestion, and the powder is flavourless and heat-stable, so it disappears into coffee as easily as water.

What the study found

In Vida Glow's 2024 clinical study of 2.5g tripeptides daily, wrinkle count fell by 42% in 21 days and forehead wrinkles by 82% at six weeks, with 89% of participants reporting firmer skin by day 21 and 70% reporting better hydration by day 14. The study is brand-funded and was awaiting publication at the time of writing.

The fit

The inside half of a firmness routine: Pro Collagen+ by mouth, peptides and a retinoid on the skin. 30 sachets, one month.

Deeper lines and loss of elasticity that topical products alone are slow to move; anyone who has tried a standard collagen powder and wants the upgraded form; and people who want a supplement that works in coffee without a flavour.

Worth knowing

Contains fish: not for a fish or seafood allergy, and not vegetarian or vegan. Pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your practitioner before starting. Results in the study appeared from three weeks of daily use; allow eight to twelve weeks for the full effect.

One sachet a day, stirred into 250 to 600ml of water, coffee or any drink, hot or cold. Best on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before food or two hours after.

Take it at the same time each day; consistency is what the study results depend on.

Use alongside

Liquid Peptides Advanced MP and Crystal Retinal for the topical side of collagen support, C E Ferulic and daily SPF to protect what is built. No interaction with any topical active. If you already take a standard marine collagen, replace it rather than stacking the two.