In this detailed guide filled with Thorne Collagen Plus product info and reviews, we’ll explore how it works, ingredients analysis, efficacy and safety, user feedback (including platform-specific insights), comparisons and alternatives, and a robust FAQ section of 35+ real questions. I’ll end with a balanced conclusion to help you decide whether it’s worth trying—no hype, just facts.
Thorne Collagen Fit vs Thorne Collagen Plus
| Feature | Thorne Collagen Fit | Thorne Collagen Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Supports joints, tendons, bones, and connective tissue | Focused on beauty—enhances skin, hair, and nails while protecting from environmental stress |
| Collagen Content | Collagen peptides sourced from bovine | 13 g grass-fed collagen peptides (Types I & III) |
| Additional Key Ingredients | Nicotinamide riboside (NR) for NAD⁺ and cellular energy support | Nicotinamide riboside (NR), MitoHeal® red and black currant polyphenols, and HydroPeach™ for hydration |
| Flavor / Format | Unflavored powder that mixes easily in drinks | Passion-berry flavored powder |
| Key Benefits | Joint, tendon, and bone support; lean muscle recovery; healthy aging via NR | Improved skin hydration, elasticity, texture, and tone; reduced wrinkles; antioxidant protection |
| Target Audience | Active individuals seeking musculoskeletal and recovery benefits | Those focused on beauty, skin health, and anti-aging from within |
| Overlap | Both contain collagen peptides and nicotinamide riboside (NR) | — |
What Is Thorne Collagen Plus And How Does It Work?
Thorne Collagen Plus is a powdered supplement marketed for skin, hair, and nail support. It combines collagen peptides (type I and III) with nicotinamide riboside, botanical extracts, and ceramide precursor compounds. The idea is you ingest the formula, your body breaks it into peptides and amino acids, which then (in theory) support collagen synthesis, skin hydration, elasticity, and structural integrity of connective tissues.
The formulation aims to support beauty “from within.” The presence of nicotinamide riboside (a precursor to NAD⁺) and plant polyphenols suggests the brand is trying to go beyond plain collagen to a more holistic skin-support blend.
Thorne Collagen Plus Ingredients
To understand what Thorne Collagen Plus might do, you need to look at its ingredient profile closely. Below is a deeper dive:
Collagen Peptides (13 g per scoop)
Collagen peptides are the core. The product uses bovine-derived, grass-fed collagen peptides (types I & III). These are hydrolyzed for better absorption. This 13 g dose is relatively high among beauty collagen supplements.
Because collagen peptides are broken down into amino acids and di-/tri-peptides, they can circulate in the bloodstream and provide building blocks for connective tissue repair. However, how much ends up in skin specifically is influenced by other diet and physiologic factors.
Nicotinamide Riboside (125 mg)
Nicotinamide Riboside plays a key role in maintaining healthy cellular metabolism through the NAD⁺ pathways, which naturally diminish as we age. By including it in the formula, Thorne elevates Collagen Plus beyond a standard beauty supplement—positioning it as a product that also supports anti-aging benefits and cellular energy renewal. This approach highlights Thorne’s focus on promoting vitality from within, not just improving skin appearance, making Collagen Plus a more holistic solution for those seeking both youthful radiance and enhanced metabolic function.
Plant Extracts & Polyphenols (MitoHeal®)
Thorne features a patented red and black currant polyphenol blend known as MitoHeal®, designed to deliver powerful antioxidant protection and help combat oxidative stress in the skin. These polyphenols work to shield collagen and elastin fibers from damage often caused by UV exposure and environmental pollutants. By doing so, they help preserve skin firmness, elasticity, and overall radiance, reinforcing the formula’s goal of promoting healthier, more youthful-looking skin from within while offering defense against daily environmental aggressors.
HydroPeach™ Ceramide-Precursor and Other Botanical Components
A peach-derived extract contributes ceramide precursors, intended to help strengthen the skin barrier. There is also betaine (trimethylglycine), flavoring, citric acid, and stevia for taste.
Flavor, Additives, Allergen Profile
Thorne Collagen Plus comes in a passion-berry flavor. It is marketed as gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and free of many common allergens. The formula uses natural flavors and stevia as a sweetener.
Summary Assessment of Formulation
Overall, Thorne has aimed for a “beauty + cellular” strategy, not just plain collagen. The high peptide dose, plus NAD-precursor and botanical antioxidants, is a distinctive blend. But whether those extras translate to meaningful results (i.e. better skin vs. basic collagen) depends on dose, absorption, and your baseline health.
I’ll now share user feedback and real-world reviews to see whether the promises hold up.
Thorne Collagen Plus Reviews From Three Platforms
Below are user-based reviews and experiences drawn from three different platforms, each reflecting varied contexts. These are paraphrased and summarized to highlight repeated themes, pros, and cautions.
Reddit (Skincare / Supplement Subreddits)
On reddit (SkincareAddictionLux, r/supplements, etc.), users report:
- One user on r/SkincareAddictionLux says: “I take the Collagen Plus supplement from Thorne. I think it helps my skin to look more moisturized… fine lines are reduced, joints creak less.” Reddit
- Another thread in r/Supplements shows people expressing interest in trying Thorne Collagen Plus among other collagen brands. Reddit
Pros from Reddit insights: perception of improved hydration, softer skin, mild reduction in visible lines, joint comfort.
Cautions or neutrality: some users question whether improvements are placebo, or note that results took weeks of consistent use. Some express skepticism of collagen supplements in general (e.g. whether oral collagen can reliably reach skin). Reddit+1
Reddit generally provides anecdotal, subjective feedback—not controlled trials—but it highlights how real users feel in day-to-day use.
Amazon / Public Retailer Reviews
On Amazon and general retailer pages (e.g. Amazon listing for Collagen Plus) users comment:
- Many users mention the product mixes well, dissolves cleanly, and is tolerable in flavor. Some praise the berry flavor and say it doesn’t leave a gritty aftertaste.
- Some review complaints mention the price is high, or that improvements were subtle or took a long time.
- Others emphasize positive changes in hair strength, nail growth, and smoother skin, though often modestly (e.g. “skin feels more hydrated,” “nails stronger”).
While Amazon reviews are variable in credibility, they reflect how buyers respond to taste, ease of use, and perceived benefits in cosmetic domains.
Third-Party Review / Supplement Review Sites
On independent supplement review sites and forums:
- One reviewer in a multi-product review commented that Thorne Collagen Plus “combines bovine collagen (Types I and III) with plant extracts aimed at improving skin health within four weeks,” praising the clean ingredient profile, allergen exclusion, and natural flavoring. Reddit
- Reviewers also note that it is non-GMO, no dairy or soy, and that the “hypoallergenic formulation” gives confidence to sensitive users. Reddit+1
- Some critiques point out that while the extras (nicotinamide riboside, polyphenols) are promising in theory, robust clinical human studies for that specific combination in collagen supplements are still limited.
- Another review site lists the product on Thorne’s official page, confirming the ingredient breakdown and claims about skin, hair, and nails. thorne.com
These third-party reviews act as a bridge between anecdote and scientific claim: they often critique the evidence base while acknowledging the attractive formulation.
Overall Synthesis of Reviews
Across the three sources, users consistently highlight good mixability, decent flavor, and mild perceived cosmetic benefits (hydration, smoother skin, stronger nails). However, many also emphasize that results aren’t dramatic, and changes are subtle over time. Price and value are recurring concerns. Though the formulation is more sophisticated than plain collagen, evidence that the extras (NR, ceramide precursors) significantly boost outcomes beyond collagen alone remains limited.
Having seen ingredients and reviews, next I’ll compare Thorne Collagen Plus against alternatives and discuss safety.
Efficacy, Mechanism, And Clinical Evidence
To evaluate how well Thorne Collagen Plus might work, we need to discuss both the scientific rationale and the clinical evidence (or lack thereof).
How Collagen Supplements Are Thought To Work
When you ingest hydrolyzed collagen, your digestive system breaks it into smaller peptides and amino acids. Some of those peptides may trigger signaling in fibroblasts (skin cells) to produce more collagen, elastin, or other extracellular matrix proteins. Also, supplying extra glycine, proline, hydroxyproline may support tissue repair.
However, whether those peptides reach skin in meaningful concentration depends on digestion, absorption, body distribution, competition with other protein sources, and metabolism.
Evidence For Collagen Supplementation
Clinical studies (on various collagen peptides) have shown modest improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle depth over 4 to 12 weeks in some populations, compared to placebo. But those studies often use simpler collagen formulas rather than multi-ingredient blends. The benefit sizes tend to be modest and variable.
For the additional ingredients in Thorne (e.g. nicotinamide riboside or polyphenols), their benefits are supported in other contexts (e.g. NR in cellular health), but evidence is weaker for their additive effect in a collagen supplement setting.
Likely Realistic Outcomes
Based on what’s known, a realistic expectation for Thorne Collagen Plus is mild improvement in skin hydration, some increased firmness or bounce, perhaps modest reduction in fine lines over time. Expect that such gains may be more noticeable if your baseline collagen status is low (e.g. with aging, poor diet). It’s unlikely to produce dramatic transformations in short order.
Factors That Affect Results
- Your diet and protein intake. If you’re already consuming adequate protein, extra collagen may yield diminishing returns.
- Age, baseline skin quality, sun damage, lifestyle (smoking, diet, UV exposure).
- Consistency of use (many users report benefits only after extended continuous use).
- Individual absorption variation.
- Synergy with skin care (topical actives, sun protection) and overall health habits.
Safety, Side Effects & Contraindications
Any supplement must be examined for safety. Here’s what I found about Thorne Collagen Plus:
General Safety Profile
- Because collagen peptides are essentially protein fragments, most healthy people tolerate them well.
- Thorne’s reputation as a quality supplement manufacturer and its allergen-free claims lend credence to safety, though not every batch is necessarily third-party certified.
Possible Side Effects
- Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort, bloating, or fullness when first starting.
- Rare allergic reactions: if you have bovine/animal protein sensitivity, caution is warranted.
- Interactions: No well-documented interactions specific to Thorne Collagen Plus, but if you’re on medications that affect metabolism or liver function, check with a healthcare provider.
- Overuse: Very high protein loads may burden kidney function in susceptible individuals (especially those with preexisting kidney disease).
Contraindications and Precautions
- Pregnant or nursing women should consult a doctor before use.
- People with severe kidney disease, protein metabolism disorders, or allergies to bovine products should avoid or use under supervision.
- Always check for purity and batch testing, particularly if you are a competitive athlete.
In sum, Thorne Collagen Plus appears safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses, though caution is always wise when adding any supplement.
Comparisons And Alternatives To Thorne Collagen Plus
If you’re considering Thorne Collagen Plus, it’s useful to benchmark it against alternatives.
Key Comparison Points
- Collagen dose per serving
- Type(s) of collagen (bovine, marine, type I/III, multi-type)
- Added actives (vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, botanicals)
- Purity, testing, allergen exclusion
- Price per gram
- Taste, mixability
Notable Alternatives
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides – simple, widely available, no extras (just collagen). Good choice if you want pure collagen.
- Garden of Life Grass-Fed Collagen – includes probiotic or supporting ingredients, trusted brand.
- Marine collagen blends – for those who prefer non-bovine sources.
- Multi-collagen blends (types I to V, etc.) – for broader coverage, though efficacy for skin beyond I/III is debated.
If your priority is pure collagen supply with minimal extras, a simpler product may suffice. If you like the idea of a “beauty blend,” Thorne Collagen Plus is a competitive option.
Tips For Best Results With Collagen Supplements
- Take on an empty stomach or with minimal food for better absorption.
- Use consistently for at least 8–12 weeks before judging outcomes.
- Pair with adequate vitamin C (which is required for collagen synthesis).
- Protect skin externally (sunscreen, retinoids, antioxidants) — supplements help, but can’t fully compensate for damage.
- Monitor your skin and hair metrics (photos, journaling) rather than expecting overnight change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below is a curated list of 60 SEO-friendly questions (capitalized first letter of each word) about “Thorne Collagen Plus.” Each question is answered in ~60 words, unless already sufficiently addressed above.
What Is Thorne Collagen Plus
Thorne Collagen Plus is a powdered beauty supplement combining bovine collagen peptides (types I & III) with nicotinamide riboside and plant extracts. It’s designed to support skin hydration, elasticity, hair, and nails by providing building blocks and antioxidant support. The product comes in berry flavor and excludes common allergens.
How Many Grams Of Collagen Does It Contain
Each scoop of Thorne Collagen Plus delivers 13 grams of collagen peptides derived from grass-fed bovine sources. This is relatively high compared to many beauty collagen powders, where dosages often range from 5 to 10 grams.
What Types Of Collagen Are Used
Thorne Collagen Plus uses type I and III collagen peptides. These are the most relevant for skin, hair, nails, and connective tissue. The formulation does not include types II or V commonly associated with cartilage or ocular tissues.
Does Thorne Collagen Plus Include Additional Ingredients
Yes. In addition to collagen peptides, the formula includes nicotinamide riboside (to support NAD⁺ metabolism), a red and black currant polyphenol blend (MitoHeal®), a peach-derived ceramide precursor (HydroPeach), betaine, natural flavor, citric acid, and stevia extract.
How Should You Take Thorne Collagen Plus
Mix one scoop (serving) into about 8–12 ounces of water or another beverage, stir or shake until dissolved, and consume. You can also blend it into smoothies. Take daily for the best results, ideally on a consistent schedule.
When Can You Expect To See Results
User reports and studies suggest subtle improvements in skin hydration and elasticity may appear within 4 to 8 weeks. More noticeable changes (e.g. reduced fine lines, firmer texture) may take 12 weeks or longer, depending on baseline skin condition and consistency.
Is It Gluten Free
Yes. Thorne markets Collagen Plus as gluten-free, and the formula is designed to avoid common gluten-containing ingredients.
Is It Dairy Free And Soy Free
Yes. The formula does not include dairy or soy derivatives. It’s designed to be allergen-friendly in those respects.
Is It Suitable For Vegetarians Or Vegans
No. Because the collagen peptides are derived from bovine sources (cow hide), it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Can It Be Used During Pregnancy Or Breastfeeding
This has not been sufficiently studied. Pregnant or nursing individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using any collagen supplement.
What Is The Price In The U.S.
Retail pricing often ranges between $60 and $70 for a 30-serving tub (17.5 oz), though discounts or subscriptions may lower the cost somewhat. Price per gram is higher than simple collagen-only powders.
Is It Third-Party Tested
Thorne is known for quality controls, but not all products are independently third-party certified. Some Thorne supplements are NSF Certified for Sport, though it’s unclear whether Collagen Plus holds that specific certification. Always verify labeling and batch test reports.
Does It Dissolve Well
Yes. Most users report that it dissolves cleanly with minimal grit, and blends well in water, smoothies, or shakes. The formulation is praised for good mixability.
What Flavor Options Exist
Collagen Plus is available in a passion berry flavor. There are no multiple flavor variants currently listed widely.
Does It Have A Sweetener
Yes, the product uses stevia extract as a natural sweetening agent, avoiding artificial sweeteners.
Can It Help With Hair Growth
Some users report improvements in hair strength and reduced shedding, likely due to the amino acids supporting keratin and connective tissue. Effects are generally subtle and take consistent use over weeks.
Can It Strengthen Nails
Yes. Because collagen peptides supply building blocks, many users observe stronger, less brittle nails with regular use.
Will It Help Joint Or Bone Pain
While collagen peptides may support joint connective tissues, Thorne Collagen Plus is marketed more on beauty benefits. Users sometimes report reduced joint stiffness, but evidence is weaker for joint pain than skin improvements.
Is It Safe For People With Kidney Disease
People with significant kidney disease or impaired protein metabolism should use caution, as extra protein load may strain kidneys. Consultation with a nephrologist is advised prior to use.
Can It Cause Digestive Issues
Some users may experience mild bloating or fullness initially. These effects commonly fade as your body adapts. Taking with or without small amounts of food may help.
How Does It Compare To Vital Proteins
Vital Proteins is a simpler collagen-only powder. Thorne Collagen Plus adds NAD⁺ support and botanical extracts. If you prefer a minimalist formula, Vital may be suitable; if you like extras, Thorne offers a more “beauty blend” approach.
Is There Clinical Research Supporting It
There is no published clinical trial specifically on Thorne Collagen Plus itself. Some ingredients (collagen peptides, NR, polyphenols) have supporting studies in isolation, but the specific combination has limited direct human clinical evidence.
How Should It Be Stored
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the tub sealed after each use to prevent moisture infiltration.
Can You Mix It With Hot Liquids
Blending into warm (not boiling) liquids is typically safe, but very high heat may degrade collagen peptides and sensitive compounds (e.g. botanical extracts). Use moderate temperatures.
Does It Contain Heavy Metals
Thorne claims careful sourcing and purity. However, independent batch testing by consumers is advised, as heavy metal contamination is a concern for many collagen products. Always check the latest lab reports or certificates of analysis.
Does It Support Skin Elasticity
Yes, that is one of the primary claims. The combination of peptides, antioxidant support, and ceramide precursors is intended to help support the elasticity and resilience of skin over time.
Is It GMO Free
The product is marketed as non-GMO or with ingredients from non-GMO sources. Thorne generally emphasizes non-GMO and clean ingredients in its branding.
Can It Be Taken With Other Supplements
In most cases yes, but be cautious combining with high protein supplements, or any supplement affecting NAD or methylation pathways. Talk to your doctor if you’re on multiple active agents.
Is It Good Value For Money
It leans toward premium pricing. You get a high dose plus extras, but the cost per gram is higher than many collagen-only options. Its value depends on whether you ascribe worth to the additional ingredients.
Will It Replace Topical Skincare
No. Oral collagen supplements complement but don’t replace topical skincare. Sun protection, retinoids, antioxidants, and moisturizing skincare remain essential.
Is There A Money-Back Guarantee
Check the current Thorne policy; at times they offer satisfaction guarantees, but terms may vary. Retailers may or may not provide refunds based on their return policies.
Can It Be Used By Athletes
Yes, but athletes concerned with banned substances should verify whether the product is certified (e.g. NSF Sport). Because Thorne is a reputable brand, many athletes choose it, but always confirm batch testing.
Can It Help With Wrinkle Reduction
Some users report modest reduction in fine lines with consistent usage over months. Don’t expect dramatic fills; changes are incremental.
Does Nicotinamide Riboside Add Benefit
NR supports NAD⁺ metabolism and cellular health, which could theoretically promote better cell repair, energy, and resilience. Whether that enhances skin outcomes over collagen alone is still under study.
Is It Safe Long Term
For most healthy adults, prolonged moderate use appears safe (assuming kidney function is normal). But long-term monitoring and periodic breaks might be prudent, as with any supplement.
Can You Alternate It With Other Collagen Products
Yes, alternating collagen sources (bovine, marine) is possible. The key is consistency of total collagen dose rather than brand hopping too frequently.
Does It Help With Hyperpigmentation Or Dark Spots
It’s not primarily marketed for pigmentation, though antioxidant extracts may support skin health. For pigmentation, targeted actives like vitamin C, niacinamide, or retinoids are more direct.
How Much Is The Price Per Serving
With a $60–70 tub for 30 servings, each serving costs about $2.00–$2.50 (before discounts). That’s relatively high compared to many collagen powders.
Are There Any Clinical Trials With Thorne Collagen Plus
As of now, no specific peer-reviewed clinical trial on Thorne Collagen Plus’s full formula has been published. Most evidence is inferred from studies of individual ingredients.
Should You Cycle Off Collagen Supplements
Some users cycle off occasionally (e.g. 1 month break every 6 months) to reassess benefits or avoid habituation. There’s no strict rule for needing cycling.
Is It Better Than Marine Collagen
Marine collagen is an alternative (marine source, often type I). Whether it’s “better” depends on your goals, allergen sensitivities, and preference for source. Thorne’s high dose and added ingredients may give it an edge for some users.
Will It Help With Stretch Marks Or Scarring
There is limited evidence that collagen peptides can support skin repair and remodeling. Some users anecdotally report gradual improvements in texture over time, but dramatic scar reduction is unlikely.
Is It Stimulant Free
Yes. Thorne Collagen Plus does not include stimulants like caffeine or adaptogens aimed at energy boosting. Its nicotinamide riboside acts on cellular metabolism, not stimulation.
What Happens If You Miss A Day
Missing an occasional day is unlikely to drastically change results. Consistency over weeks or months matters more. Just resume your regular dosing schedule.
Is It Beneficial For Mature Skin Over 60
Yes, it may be more beneficial for older skin, since collagen loss and NAD decline are more pronounced. But results may take longer and be more modest in this demographic compared to younger users.
How To Monitor Its Effectiveness
Take baseline skin photos, track hydration via mirror checks or devices, monitor hair and nail strength, and reevaluate after 8–12 weeks. Avoid expecting dramatic overnight changes.
Should You Consult A Doctor Before Use
Yes, especially if you have chronic health conditions, kidney issues, are pregnant, nursing, or take medications. A qualified provider can assess safety and interactions.
Is It Better To Get Collagen From Food
A well-rounded diet with protein, vitamin C, and amino acid sources supports natural collagen synthesis. Supplements can fill gaps but aren’t a substitute for good nutrition.
Can It Support Gut Health
Some collagen peptides may help gut lining integrity, but Thorne Collagen Plus isn’t marketed primarily as a gut health product. You may see marginal benefits, but it’s not a substitute for targeted gut supplements.
Does It Require Vitamin C To Work Best
Yes. Collagen synthesis in the body requires vitamin C as a cofactor. Ensuring adequate vitamin C intake (via food or supplements) supports optimal collagen formation.
What Is The Shelf Life
Shelf life is typically indicated on the tub (often around 2 years). Always store properly and note expiration dates before purchase.
Conclusion: Is Thorne Collagen Plus Worth Trying?
Thorne Collagen Plus offers a robust, thoughtfully designed “beauty blend” that goes beyond plain collagen by combining collagen peptides with nicotinamide riboside, polyphenols, and ceramide-precursor support. Its strengths include a high collagen dose (13 g), allergen-friendly formulation, ease of mixing, and backing by a brand known for quality controls.
That said, it is priced at a premium, and the extra “add-ons” (NR, botanical extracts) do not yet have strong direct clinical proof in the context of collagen supplementation. User reviews are generally positive but modest—improvements in hydration, smoother texture, hair and nail support, but rarely dramatic or immediate transformations.
If you’re someone who appreciates a feature-rich formula and are willing to invest, Thorne Collagen Plus is a strong option. If your priority is cost per gram of collagen or a simpler formula, one of the collagen-only alternatives might suffice. Whatever you choose, use it consistently for 8–12 weeks, pair it with smart skincare and diet, and monitor your progress.