Collagen supplements are typically marketed as products used to support both skin and joint health, making them popular picks alongside things like daily multivitamins, for instance. So, if you’ve got achy knees from that walking desk, or maybe you have a standing desk and neglect to take sit breaks, a collagen supplement may be of interest. Though it’s worth noting that while there’s some evidence that collagen supplements can improve joint symptoms, more research is needed to establish whether they help with long-term joint health.
One of the best things about these supplements is that they often come in powder form, which makes for easy consumption. Much like a protein powder, you just mix with liquid, no need to swallow huge pills. We wanted to do a deeper dive into one such product, 1st Phorm Collagen with Dermaval—a collagen supplement in powder form that contains five types of collagen peptides. Here’s what Paige, a member of our testing team, had to say.
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1st Phorm Collagen
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at 1st Phorm
- Our thoughts: Our tester loved the smooth texture and easy-to-use powder, though she felt it might be better mixed into coffee than water.
- Who it’s for: Professionals who want an on-the-go collagen supplement that mixes easily with your beverage of choice
- What makes it different: Five types of collagen peptides
Pros
- Fully dissolves in liquid with no clumps or grittiness
- Our tester didn’t experience any side effects
- User-friendly instructions
Cons
- Very sweet
- Flavor wasn’t great when combined with water, but may be better with coffee
1st Phorm Collagen with Dermaval Specs
Our Experience With 1st Phorm Collagen with Dermaval
This collagen powder, which includes five types of collagen peptides, is designed to help promote skin firmness and elasticity, joint health, and hair and nail strength. It also includes something called “Dermaval,” a trademarked name for a combination of ingredients that the company describes as “a phytonutrient-rich complex that is designed to help support healthy elastin-related skin properties.” The company website continues on to say that collagen and elastin work together to support healthy connective tissue and skin appearance.
This product, which comes in a powder form, can be mixed into water, coffee, smoothies, and protein shakes. Our tester, Paige, tried it and shared her experience. Here’s what she liked, and what could have been improved.
What We Liked
Here’s what Paige liked most about this product.
- Instructions (5 out of 5): “The instructions are very straightforward and easy to read,” said Paige, adding, “They say to add 1 scoop to 8 ounces of a hot or cold beverage, and to take one to two times per day.”
- Mixability (5 out of 5): Paige explained, “The product easily dissolves within 60 seconds of shaking. There are no visible chunks and no further shaking was required to fully dissolve. The texture was not gritty and there was no separation.” This product is well-suited for professionals who need to get out the door quickly, as the easy and fast prep shouldn’t add significant time to a morning routine—and the beverage could easily be taken on the go.
A few other positives: Paige said she didn’t experience any side effects, and she liked the large package and pleasant texture.
What We Would Change
There were just a couple of things that our tester thought could be improved.
- Taste (3 out of 5): Paige tried the caramel flavor and said she didn’t really like the taste of it when mixed with plain water, but noted, “It would be really good added to coffee.”
- Sweetness (5 out of 5): The key issue with the taste, according to Paige, was that it was too sweet—so she rated it a maximum of 5 out of 5. She explained, “It’s pretty sweet and needs the bitterness of coffee to even out the flavor.” For those who like a cup of coffee or two at work, keeping this collagen supplement at your desk, instead of at home, might make sense.
Aside from that, Paige said she found the price slightly high for the number of servings, noting that the product can be taken twice per day—increasing the per-day cost.
Who It’s For & Who It’s Not For
Here’s who might want to consider this collagen powder. As always, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider prior to starting any new supplement.
For: People 18 and over looking for a supplement designed for skin and joint support
This product is for adults looking for a product that may help boost skin and joint health. Make sure to speak with your healthcare provider, who can review your medical history, current medications, and health care needs, before trying a new product.
For: People who prefer powder supplements
Because this is a powder supplement, it’s generally pretty easy to take. For those who have difficulties swallowing pills and capsules, a powder supplement like this may be preferable.
Not for: Those following a vegan diet
As you can see from the ingredient list, this collagen powder contains multiple animal-based ingredients so it isn’t well-suited for vegan diets.
Not for: People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult with a healthcare provider before taking this supplement.
Why the Right Collagen Supplement Matters to Professionals
Standing desks and treadmill desks are becoming more popular as people become increasingly aware of the downsides of sitting for too long throughout the day. But with all that standing and stepping comes the need to take care of your joints—and some people turn to collagen supplements for help with that.
While these supplements come in different forms, a powdered version like the one in this review is helpful because it’s fast and easy. That makes it ideal for people hustling to get out the door in the morning, or those who want to store it in their desk drawer to prepare drinks at work. When it’s easy to make, you’re free to focus on more important things.
Comparing 1st Phorm to Other Collagen Supplements
Fortune’s Final Thoughts
While we loved how easily 1st Phorm Collagen with Dermaval blended with water, we ultimately think this supplement would shine most as a coffee companion because of its sweetness. So we’d suggest stashing it at work and adding a scoop to your morning and afternoon coffee so that you get both a caffeine and collagen boost. Also, remember to check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement; they’re uniquely positioned to weigh in on what might be most beneficial given your unique health history and medical needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1st Phorm collagen good for you?
This collagen supplement isn’t necessarily the best fit for everyone. Make sure to speak with a healthcare provider before taking this product to see if you might benefit from this or another collagen supplement.
What is a downside to taking collagen?
Supplements aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that medications are, so some supplements may not actually produce the benefits they claim to—which is why we recommend looking for products that have been third-party tested. Other potential downsides include side effects like digestive discomfort and allergic reactions. Again, we suggest speaking with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplement to see if it might be a good fit for your unique needs.
Where can I buy 1st Phorm?
You can purchase it directly from their website as a one-time purchase, or sign up for a subscription and receive a discount.