A Complete Guide to Collagen Types: I, II, III and More

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, providing structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. But not all collagen is the same. There are at least 28 known types, with types I, II, and III making up the vast majority. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right supplement for your goals, whether you're targeting skin elasticity, joint health, or overall vitality.

In this guide, we'll break down the main collagen types, explain their unique roles, and show you how to incorporate them into your routine. We'll also highlight some of our favorite products from Vidaglow to make your selection easier.

What Are Collagen Types?

Collagen is a protein made of amino acids, primarily glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. The different types are classified by their molecular structure and where they are found in the body. Type I collagen is the most common, found in skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Type II is mainly in cartilage, while type III supports skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. Other types like V and X play specialized roles.

When you take a collagen supplement, you're usually getting hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides) from bovine, marine, or other sources. The source influences the type profile. For example, marine collagen is predominantly type I, making it ideal for skin health. Bovine collagen typically contains types I and III, while chicken collagen is rich in type II for joints.

• Type I: Skin, bones, tendons – most abundant
• Type II: Cartilage – joint health
• Type III: Skin, blood vessels – often with type I
• Type V: Placenta, skin – supports type I
• Type X: Bone growth and healing

Type I Collagen: The Skin and Bone Builder

Type I collagen accounts for about 90% of your body's collagen. It provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. As you age, production declines, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, and weaker bones. Supplementing with type I collagen can help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and density. Marine collagen is an excellent source of type I because it comes from fish scales and skin, which are rich in this type.

For a convenient way to boost your type I intake, try our Natural Marine Collagen Sachets - Blueberry. Each sachet delivers 10g of pure marine collagen peptides, perfect for mixing into water, smoothies, or coffee. It's unflavored and dissolves easily, making it a seamless addition to your daily routine.

Type II Collagen: The Joint Supporter

Type II collagen is primarily found in cartilage, the flexible tissue that cushions your joints. Unlike type I, which is fibrous, type II forms a network that provides tensile strength and support. Supplementing with type II collagen may help reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and support cartilage health. It's especially popular among athletes and older adults.

While Vidaglow's marine collagen line focuses on types I and III, you can support joint health by combining it with other nutrients like vitamin C and glucosamine. For a holistic approach, consider our Liquid Collagen Skin + Gut, which supports multiple systems. However, if you're specifically targeting joints, look for products that contain type II collagen, such as chicken sternum extracts.

• Found in cartilage: supports joint flexibility
• Often sourced from chicken or bovine
• May help with osteoarthritis symptoms

Type III Collagen: The Skin and Vessel Supporter

Type III collagen often works alongside type I to maintain skin elasticity and firmness. It's also found in blood vessels, organs, and muscles. Deficiencies in type III can lead to fragile skin and weak blood vessels. Many bovine collagen supplements contain both types I and III, making them a good choice for overall skin and body health.

Our Natural Marine Collagen Powder 90G - Blueberry provides a potent dose of type I collagen, which also supports type III indirectly. For a more comprehensive blend, you might also explore our Liquid Collagen Skin Health 3 Day Sample Pack to see how your skin responds.

How to Choose the Right Collagen Type for You

Your choice depends on your primary goal. For skin health, focus on type I collagen from marine sources. For joints, look for type II collagen. For overall wellness, a blend of types I and III from bovine collagen works well. Also consider the form: powders, liquids, and capsules. Powders offer flexibility in dosing, while liquids are pre-measured and easy to take on the go.

At Vidaglow, we offer a variety of collagen products to suit different needs. If you're new to collagen, start with our Natural Marine Collagen - Original Trial Pack to test your tolerance and see results. Remember to pair collagen with vitamin C for better absorption, and stay consistent for at least 8 weeks to notice changes.

• Skin: Type I marine collagen
• Joints: Type II collagen
• Overall: Types I and III blend
• Start with a trial pack to test

Understanding collagen types empowers you to make informed choices for your health and beauty goals. Whether you're after glowing skin, flexible joints, or overall vitality, there's a collagen type that fits. Explore Vidaglow's range of high-quality collagen supplements, and start your journey to better health today. For a simple start, try our Natural Marine Collagen Sachets - Blueberry and experience the difference.