Exploring the Different Types of Collagen Supplements

Collagen – it’s kind of a big deal in the world of wellness. As the most abundant protein in the body, it plays a major role in keeping our skin plump, our joints flexible, and our hair and nails strong.

But as we age, our natural collagen production starts to slow down, which is why so many people are turning to supplements for youthful support from the inside out.

So, in this guide, we’ll take a look at the different types of collagen, what each can do for your body, and how to choose a collagen supplement that matches your lifestyle and wellness goals.

Whether you’re after glowing skin, stronger joints, or overall vitality, this guide will help you understand what’s best for your unique needs.

Collagen is a structural protein that acts like a glue, holding together key parts of the body, including skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

It gives skin its firmness and elasticity, helps maintain joint flexibility, and even plays a role in keeping hair and nails strong.

Naturally produced by the body, collagen is essential for overall structure and resilience, but as we age, our collagen production gradually declines, especially from our mid-20s onward. This drop can lead to visible signs of ageing like fine lines, sagging skin and brittle nails, and thinning hair.

That’s why many people turn to collagen supplements to help top up the body’s supply, supporting beauty and wellness from within.

Collagen may not directly cause new hair to grow, but it plays a supportive role in creating the ideal conditions for healthy hair. It helps maintain a healthy scalp by supporting the skin’s structure and hydration, which is necessary for hair follicles to function properly.

Collagen also contains amino acids like proline, one of the building blocks of keratin, the protein that makes up your hair.

By reinforcing the structure around hair follicles and contributing to stronger strands, collagen may help reduce breakage and improve the overall appearance of thickness and strength.

There are at least 28 types of collagen, but the most common and well-researched in supplements are Types I, II, and III.

Type I collagen is the most abundant in the human body and provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It is most associated with improvements in skin elasticity and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

Type II collagen is primarily found in cartilage and is often used to support joint health and mobility. Type III collagen is typically found alongside Type I and supports the structure of organs, skin, and blood vessels.

When used in supplements, these types may be hydrolysed (as collagen peptides) to improve absorption and allow the body to utilise them more effectively.

Marine collagen is sourced from fish skin and scales, while bovine collagen is derived from the hides of cows. Both primarily contain Type I collagen, making them suitable for skin, hair, and nail support.

However, marine collagen is generally regarded as having superior bioavailability due to its smaller peptide size, which may enhance absorption.

From a dietary perspective, marine collagen may be preferred by pescatarians and those avoiding land animal products, while bovine collagen is not suitable for individuals avoiding animal-derived ingredients altogether.

Ethical sourcing and sustainability are also important considerations, particularly with marine collagen, where sustainably caught fish are preferable.

When selecting a collagen supplement, understanding the terminology can help guide your decision. ‘Hydrolysed collagen’ or ‘collagen peptides’ both refer to collagen that has been broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed pieces. This form is ideal for supplementation, as it’s gentler on the digestive system and more bioavailable.

Collagen supplements come in a variety of formats – powders you can stir into smoothies, ready-to-chew gummies, convenient tablets, and easy-to-swallow capsules. Your choice depends on personal preference and lifestyle.

Be sure to check the label for added supportive ingredients. Vitamin C, for instance, helps support natural collagen production, while zinc may support skin repair and renewal.

A clean ingredient list and sustainably sourced collagen are also worth considering for those looking to align supplements with their wellness values.

Collagen supplements usually are quite flexible when it comes to timing – you can take them in the morning as part of your breakfast routine or in the evening before bed. However, check your supplement's label for directions of use to ensure you get the most out of your collagen. 

Whether you take them with or without food often comes down to personal comfort and the products direction of use. Some suggest pairing collagen with a meal containing vitamin C to support absorption. 

Results aren’t instant. It can take up to 12 weeks of consistent use to start noticing visible improvements in skin elasticity, nail strength, or hair texture.

To maximise results, stay consistent with daily use, hydrate well, and support your routine with a nutrient-rich diet.

Collagen plays a key role in supporting healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints, making it a popular go-to in beauty and wellness routines. 

From understanding the different types of collagen (like type I, II, and III) to comparing marine and bovine sources, and learning about formats like powders, gummies, and capsules, choosing the right supplement doesn’t have to be difficult when you know what to look for. 

Whether you’re aiming for glowing skin, stronger hair, or healthy joint support, the best collagen supplement is one that suits your personal health goals and matches your lifestyle.