Last updated on: December 31, 2025
If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok, Instagram, or even the beauty aisle at Target, you’ve probably noticed one thing: everyone is talking about collagen. From glowing skin to stronger nails to happier joints, the promises seem almost too good to be true.
Like many women, I care about my skin, my health, and feeling confident in my own body. But I’m also skeptical. So I decided to do something simple: drink collagen every day for 30 days and see what really happens.
This is exactly what changed, what didn’t, and whether you should try it too.
Why I Tried Collagen in the First Place
I’m in my early 30s, and like many of you, I’ve started noticing small changes—my skin looks a little dull, my under-eye lines don’t disappear as fast, and my nails break for absolutely no reason. I had heard so many women swear by collagen that curiosity finally took over.
My thought was:
“Okay, maybe collagen won’t change my life… but can it make my skin better? My hair healthier? My mornings easier?”
Only one way to find out.
What Collagen Actually Is (In Simple Words)
Collagen is basically the “glue” that holds your body together. Your skin, hair, nails, joints—they all rely on it. But here’s the annoying part: once you hit your mid-20s, your body naturally makes less collagen each year.
That’s where supplements come in. Most powders contain hydrolyzed collagen, which means it’s broken down into tiny pieces your body can actually use.
I’m not a scientist, but here’s the short version:
Your body needs collagen. You stop making as much. Drinking it might help.
Fair enough.
The Collagen I Used (and How I Took It)
I picked a simple, unflavored hydrolyzed collagen powder—nothing fancy, no sugar, no weird additives. I added 1 scoop (10 grams) to my morning coffee. It dissolved pretty easily, and after two days, I didn’t even notice it was there.
If you’re thinking about trying collagen, this is the easiest way to start. Coffee + collagen = zero extra effort.
My 30-Day Experience (Week by Week)
Week 1 — No Big Changes, But Something Unexpected
I’ll be honest: nothing dramatic happened the first week. My skin looked the same, my hair looked the same, and my nails were still breaking just by looking at them.
BUT—
I noticed I felt fuller in the mornings. Collagen has protein, and I wasn’t expecting that to make a difference. But it did.
Also, my coffee felt creamier. Small win.
Week 2 — Little Changes Start to Show
Around Day 10, I noticed something subtle:
My skin felt more hydrated. Not glowing, not magically smooth—just… healthier.
My nails also weren’t breaking as quickly. They still weren’t strong, but at least they weren’t snapping every time I opened a can of sparkling water.
I wasn’t fully convinced yet, but I was definitely paying attention.
Week 3 — The Real Changes Happened Here
This was the turning point.
My skin looked plumper and less tired. When I put on makeup, my foundation didn’t cling to dry areas like it usually does. Even my under-eyes looked a tiny bit smoother.
My hair also started shedding less in the shower. I didn’t expect that, but it was noticeable.
And my nails—FINALLY—started growing without splitting.
At this point, I actually felt excited to keep going.
Week 4 — The “Wow, This Is Actually Working” Week
By the last week, I felt like I could confidently say something was happening.
Here’s what I personally noticed:
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My skin had a natural glow, even without makeup.
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My nails were the strongest they’ve been in years.
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My hair looked a little shinier.
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My digestion felt smoother (surprise benefit!).
It wasn’t like I aged backwards, but I definitely looked fresher and felt better. And honestly? That alone felt worth it.
What Experts Say (in Normal Words)
Dermatologists and nutritionists agree on one thing:
Collagen can help with skin elasticity and hydration, especially when it’s hydrolyzed.
Studies also show collagen may help with:
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reducing fine lines,
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improving joint comfort,
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strengthening hair and nails.
But—because there’s always a but—results vary from person to person. Some women see major changes, some see small ones, and a few don’t see anything.
For me, the changes were real, but gradual.
Side Effects I Noticed (Very Few)
I didn’t have any major side effects. A couple of days I felt slightly bloated after taking it, but it passed quickly. If you’re allergic to fish, be careful with marine collagen. And if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor first.
Overall, collagen is pretty gentle.
The Big Question: Was It Worth It?
Honestly? Yes.
Not because of some crazy transformation, but because of consistent, small improvements that made me feel more confident and comfortable in my skin.
Here’s what changed after 30 days:
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My skin felt smoother and healthier.
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My nails grew faster and stronger.
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My hair shed less.
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My digestion improved.
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I actually enjoyed adding it to my routine.
It became a simple form of self-care that felt good each morning.
Will I keep drinking it?
Absolutely. I don’t think collagen is a miracle, but I do think it helps when you stay consistent.
Should You Try It Too?
If you’re expecting overnight results, you’ll be disappointed. But if you want:
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softer, hydrated skin
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stronger nails
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less hair shedding
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a small daily wellness habit
…then collagen is honestly worth trying for at least a month.
Start simple. One scoop a day. No pressure.
Final Thoughts
Trying collagen for 30 days wasn’t life-changing, but it was confidence-boosting. I felt better in my skin, my nails finally cooperated, and my hair looked healthier. And the best part? It was such an easy habit to stick to.
If you’re curious, give it a go.
Your skin—and honestly, your morning coffee—might thank you.
