Why Collagen Should Be in Your Supplement Stack
If you’re searching for the best collagen supplements in Pittsburgh, or wondering whether collagen is really worth the hype—you’ve landed in the right place. At Commonwealth Nutrition, we help people just like you understand the “why” behind the supplements they’re taking, and collagen protein is one of the most asked-about products in our store.
Collagen is more than just a beauty buzzword—it’s the most abundant protein in the human body, responsible for keeping your skin smooth, your joints strong, and your body feeling young and supported. Whether you’re an athlete recovering from workouts, someone focused on hair, skin, and nail health, or just looking for a natural way to support healthy aging, collagen can be a game changer.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about collagen, what it is, how it works in the body, when to take it, and the top collagen brands we carry, including favorites like 1st Phorm Collagen with Dermaval® and MuscleSport Collagen Powder. Ready to find out why collagen is quickly becoming a must-have in daily wellness routines?
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is the glue that literally holds us together. It’s the most abundant protein in the human body, making up nearly 30% of our total protein content. You’ll find it in your skin, joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and even your gut lining. Think of it as the scaffolding that keeps your body strong, supported, and functioning properly.
There are many different types of collagen, but the three most common are:
- Type I – Found in skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It’s the type most associated with youthful skin and structural support.
- Type II – Mainly found in cartilage. This one’s key for joint health and mobility.
- Type III – Found in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. Often works alongside Type I for skin elasticity and healing.
As we age (especially after 25), our natural collagen production begins to decline. Combine that with stress, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors like sun exposure or smoking, and it’s no surprise that many people start to see the effects: wrinkles, weaker joints, brittle nails, and slower recovery times.
That’s where collagen supplements come in. High-quality powders like 1st Phorm’s Hydrolyzed Collagen with Dermaval® or MuscleSport’s Collagen Peptides are designed to support your body’s natural collagen production—without the guesswork.
And unlike many “beauty supplements” that promise the world with flashy packaging, these collagen powders are hydrolyzed (aka broken down into smaller peptides) so they’re easier to absorb and put to work where your body needs them most.
Top 3 Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements
If you’re wondering whether collagen supplements are worth the scoop, the answer is a solid yes—especially when it comes to results you can see and feel. Here are three science-backed benefits that make collagen a must-have in your daily routine:
1. Stronger, Healthier Skin
Let’s start with what most people notice first—your skin. Collagen helps improve elasticity, hydration, and smoothness. As your natural levels decline with age, taking a daily collagen supplement like 1st Phorm’s Collagen with Dermaval® can help slow down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Dermaval®, a key ingredient in the 1st Phorm formula, supports your body’s ability to preserve and produce collagen naturally.
2. Joint & Tendon Support
Whether you're pounding the pavement on your morning run or grinding through a heavy lift, your joints take a beating. Type II collagen supports cartilage health, reduces joint pain, and improves mobility. MuscleSport’s Collagen Peptides include key amino acids that fuel joint and connective tissue recovery, great for both athletes and everyday movers.
3. Hair, Nails, and Gut Health
Collagen isn’t just for the outside, it supports the inside, too. Regular supplementation can strengthen brittle nails, thicken hair, and support gut lining integrity, which can aid digestion and reduce bloating. (Bonus: better gut health = better nutrient absorption = better overall wellness.)
How and When to Take Collagen (Without Overthinking It)
One of the best parts about collagen is how easy it is to add into your daily routine. You don’t need a strict schedule—just consistent use for the best results.
When Should You Take Collagen?
There’s no exact “best” time to take collagen, but these common windows work well:
- In the morning – Stir it into your coffee or tea for a protein-packed start.
- Post-workout – Combine it with your regular protein shake to support muscle and joint recovery.
- At night – A dose before bed can help support overnight skin and tissue repair.
The key is to make it part of your daily routine. Whether it’s morning or night, consistency is what brings noticeable benefits.
What Can You Mix It With?
Collagen supplements usually come in unflavored or lightly flavored forms, so they’re super versatile:
- Hot drinks like coffee or tea
- Smoothies or protein shakes
- Yogurt, oatmeal, or chia pudding
- Just water—especially if it’s flavored
Mixing collagen into your favorite drink or snack is a simple way to stay consistent without adding any stress to your day.
Why Collagen Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Collagen might seem like just another buzzword in the wellness world—but it's far more than that. It's a foundational protein that your body depends on for strong joints, glowing skin, healthy hair, and connective tissue support. And while your body produces it naturally, production slows down with age (and stress, let’s be real), which is where supplementation steps in.
Whether you're looking to support recovery, improve your skin’s appearance, or simply age a little more gracefully, adding collagen to your daily routine is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. It's simple to mix, easy to take, and most importantly—effective when taken consistently.
So if you're ready to boost your health from the inside out, collagen might just be the missing link you’ve been looking for. Add it to your coffee, your shake, or your bedtime tea—just get it in and let it do the work. Your body (and future self) will thank you.