Left Continue shopping
Your Order

You have no items in your cart

You might like
Different Types of Collagen: Benefits, Sources & How to Choose the Right One

Different Types of Collagen: Benefits, Sources & How to Choose the Right One

Collagen has become one of the most popular wellness supplements and for good reason. As the most abundant protein in the body, collagen plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, joints, bones, and connective tissues.

However, not all collagen is created equal. There are several types of collagen, each with unique functions and benefits. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right collagen supplement to support your health and beauty goals.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is a structural protein that acts as the body's natural support system. It provides strength, elasticity, and resilience to tissues throughout the body.

From our mid-20s onwards, natural collagen production begins to decline. This gradual reduction can contribute to visible signs of ageing, reduced skin elasticity, and changes in joint comfort and mobility.

Collagen supplements can help support your body's collagen levels and overall wellness.

The 5 Main Types of Collagen

While scientists have identified more than 28 collagen types, Types I, II, III, IV, and V are the most important for human health.

Type I Collagen: The Beauty Collagen

Type I collagen makes up approximately 90% of the collagen in the body and is the primary collagen found in skin, bones, tendons, and connective tissue.

Benefits of Type I Collagen

  • Supports skin elasticity and firmness
  • Helps maintain smooth, youthful-looking skin
  • Strengthens hair and nails
  • Supports healthy bones and connective tissues

Common Sources

  • Marine collagen
  • Bovine collagen

Ideal For

People focused on beauty, anti-ageing support, and overall skin health.

Type II Collagen: The Joint Support Collagen

Type II collagen is found mainly in cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints and supports movement.

Benefits of Type II Collagen

  • Supports healthy cartilage
  • Helps maintain joint flexibility
  • Supports an active lifestyle
  • Promotes mobility and comfort

Common Sources

  • Chicken collagen
  • Undenatured Type II collagen supplements

Ideal For

Athletes, active individuals, and those looking to support long-term joint health.

Type III Collagen: The Structural Support Collagen

Type III collagen works alongside Type I and is found in skin, blood vessels, muscles, and internal organs.

Benefits of Type III Collagen

  • Supports skin firmness and elasticity
  • Helps maintain connective tissue structure
  • Supports healthy blood vessels
  • Complements Type I collagen for beauty benefits

Common Sources

  • Bovine collagen

Ideal For

Anyone seeking additional support for skin health and overall wellness.

Type IV Collagen: The Foundation Collagen

Type IV collagen forms part of the skin's basement membrane and plays an important role in tissue structure.

Benefits of Type IV Collagen

  • Supports healthy skin layers
  • Contributes to tissue repair processes
  • Supports cellular structure

Ideal For

Supporting healthy skin function and tissue maintenance.

Type V Collagen: The Specialty Collagen

Type V collagen is found in hair, the cornea, placenta, and certain layers of skin tissue.

Benefits of Type V Collagen

  • Supports healthy hair
  • Helps maintain skin structure
  • Supports connective tissues

Common Sources

  • Eggshell membrane collagen
  • Multi-collagen supplements

Ideal For

Individuals looking for comprehensive beauty and wellness support.

Marine Collagen vs Bovine Collagen

One of the most common questions when shopping for collagen supplements is whether to choose marine or bovine collagen.

Marine Collagen

Marine collagen is sourced from fish and is primarily composed of Type I collagen.

Benefits

  • Highly bioavailable
  • Excellent for skin support
  • Supports healthy hair and nails
  • Popular in beauty-focused routines

Bovine Collagen

Bovine collagen is sourced from cattle and typically contains both Type I and Type III collagen.

Benefits

  • Supports skin health
  • Helps maintain connective tissue
  • Supports bones and muscles
  • Provides broad-spectrum collagen benefits

Which Type of Collagen Is Best for You?

Choosing the right collagen depends on your wellness goals.

Your Goal Recommended Collagen
Skin health Type I
Hair and nails Type I & V
Anti-ageing support Types I & III
Joint support Type II
Bone health Type I
Overall wellness Multi-collagen blend

How to Support Natural Collagen Production

Alongside collagen supplementation, healthy lifestyle habits can help support your body's natural collagen production.

Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods

Focus on protein-rich foods and foods high in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration supports healthy skin and overall cellular function.

Protect Your Skin

Daily sun protection helps reduce collagen breakdown caused by UV exposure.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Regular exercise, quality sleep, and avoiding smoking can help support long-term collagen health.

Shop Premium Collagen Supplements

Whether your goal is radiant skin, stronger hair and nails, or improved joint support, choosing the right collagen supplement can help you support your wellness journey from within.

Explore our range of high-quality collagen products and find the perfect formula for your lifestyle and health goals. Click here to view our Collagen range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of collagen for skin?

Type I collagen is considered the most beneficial collagen type for supporting skin elasticity, hydration, and overall skin appearance.

Is marine collagen better than bovine collagen?

Marine collagen is often preferred for skin-focused benefits because it contains primarily Type I collagen. Bovine collagen provides both Type I and Type III collagen, making it suitable for broader wellness support.

Can collagen help with joint health?

Yes. Type II collagen is the primary collagen found in cartilage and is commonly used in supplements designed to support joint health and mobility.

At what age should I start taking collagen?

Natural collagen production typically begins to decline in your mid-20s. Many people choose to incorporate collagen supplements into their wellness routine from this age onwards.

How long does it take to see results from collagen supplements?

Results vary depending on the individual and the product used. Consistent daily use over several weeks or months is generally recommended.

Shop all collagen now: click here

Different Types of Collagen: Benefits, Sources & How to Choose the Right One

Different Types of Collagen: Benefits, Sources & How to Choose the Right One

Discover the different types of collagen and how each supports skin, hair, nails, joints, and overall wellness. Learn the benefits of Type I, II, III, IV, and V collagen and find out which collagen is best suited to your health and beauty goals.

Read more
What is the Roam & Ritual Supplement Range?

What is the Roam & Ritual Supplement Range?

Roam & Ritual is a new wellness supplement brand stocked by Hellenia, products can also be found selling on Amazon UK marketplace. Roam & Ritual is focused on combining convenience with...

Read more
What are the benefits of Pycnogenol®?

What are the benefits of Pycnogenol®?

Pycnogenol is a plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, (also known as the Pinus pinaster tree) that’s rich in antioxidants, particularly procyanidins. It’s commonly used...

Read more