Which Collagen Is Your Type?
You’ve probably heard of collagen—it’s listed as an ingredient in skincare products, smoothies, and even bone broth. But what’s all the hype about? Well, there's a good reason everyone's obsessed. Simply put, collagen is basically your body's scaffolding; it’s the protein that keeps your bones, skin, hair, and nails in top shape.
So, why is it so popular? Here's where it gets interesting. In the supplement world, collagen isn't just collagen. Scientists have found 28 different types so far, each with its own unique role. But don’t stress, you absolutely don't need to know all 28. But getting familiar with the main ones can help you pick the right collagen supplement to meet your wellness goals.
Let’s break it down.
Yes, there’s a lot of collagen out there, but most of us only really need to know about a few types. Why? Because Type I makes up around 90% of the collagen in your body, and other types—like II, III, V, and X—fill in the gaps to cover nearly all the benefits you’d want, from support for hair, skin, and nails to joints*.
Here’s a quick guide on each type of collagen.
Collagen Type I
The heavy hitter. Type I is the most common type of collagen and is found in your skin, hair, and nails. In supplements, you’ll usually see it sourced from bovine (cow) or marine (fish) sources.
Collagen Type II
Type II is all about cartilage. If you’re looking for joint support, this is the one for you.* It’s usually sourced from chicken.
Collagen Type III
Often paired with Type I, Type III is found in skin, muscles, and blood vessels. Together, Types I and III make up a lot of your connective tissue, meaning they’re often paired together in a lot of collagen supplements.
Collagen Type V
A little less common but still important. Type V is found in the skin and the cornea of your eye. In supplements, it often comes from eggshell membranes.
Collagen Type X
If you need support for bone and cartilage formation, Type X is your go-to.* You’ll see it in multi-collagen complexes alongside Types I–III and V.
Now that we’ve covered the different types of collagen, let’s talk about where they come from. It’s important to know because your choice of collagen will depend on your lifestyle and wellness goals.
Marine Collagen
Marine collagen is sourced from fish, specifically the skin and scales. It’s rich in Type I, making it a great choice if your focus is on improving your hair, skin, and nails*. It’s also pescatarian-friendly, which is a big plus if you don’t eat meat!
Bovine Collagen
Made from cows, bovine collagen naturally contains Types I and III. That makes it versatile, supporting everything from skin to joints*. It also happens to be one of the most common sources of collagen you’ll find in supplements.
Chicken Collagen
Chicken collagen is usually where Type II comes from. It’s more specialized, showing up in supplements focused on joint health. Eggshell membrane collagen also contributes Types V and X, rounding out multi-collagen products that promise broader coverage.
The short answer? Yes! Sports Research collagen supplements are designed to be easily absorbed in your body.* If you’re curious, here’s how it works:
Your body has to break down collagen before it can actually use it. That's why our supplements come as hydrolyzed peptides, which are already broken into small pieces for easier digestion.*
Those little fragments? They're like messengers telling your body “hey, we need more collagen over here!”. So you're not just getting the collagen you ingested—you're kickstarting your own production too.*
More collagen floating around = better support for everything from your skin to your hair, joints, and nails*.
And there are studies to back this all up.
In one trial, adults taking daily collagen peptides showed measurable improvements in key skin measures compared with placebo. The same goes for nails—a study found that people taking specific collagen peptides saw improvements in nail growth and brittleness.
And then there are joints. In a study on active young adults, collagen supplementation helped with activity-related joint pain. For hair, the research is newer but promising. A recent trial of hydrolyzed collagen and vitamin C together reported positive scalp and hair outcomes.
Collagen isn’t a quick fix, but these studies do suggest that consistent use supports your body’s natural systems—helping you feel your best over time*.
So here’s what we’re working with. At Sports Research, we’ve developed several different collagen products to fit different lifestyles. Whether you like the convenience of capsules or prefer mixing your collagen into your morning smoothie, there's something in the lineup for everyone.
Sports Research Collagen Peptides
Classic unflavored collagen with Types I and III from bovine. Dissolves easily in anything—coffee, smoothies, even your morning oatmeal. Mix 1 scoop into your drink or food 1–2 times daily, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Collagen Peptides Flavored
All the benefits of the classic peptides (Types I and III) with flavor options like chocolate or vanilla. A good fit if you want your collagen to double as a sweet treat! Mix 1 scoop into your drink or food 1–2 times daily, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Organic Collagen Peptides
Certified USDA Organic and made from grass-fed bovine. Same Types I & III as the original peptides, but also certified USDA Organic, you can trust you’re getting the best. Mix 1 scoop into your favorite drink 1–2 times daily, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Multi Collagen Complex
A blend of 5 types of collagen (I, II, III, V, and X) in convenient capsules. No mixing, no measuring, just pop and go. Plus, it's loaded with Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid for extra skin and joint love. Take 3 capsules daily with or without food, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Multi Collagen Powder
The all-in-one powder with 5 types of collagen (I, II, III, V, and X) for people who want everything covered. Mix 1 scoop into your post-workout shake or morning coffee once daily, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Collagen Peptides Matcha Green Tea
Types I and III collagen meet organic Japanese matcha for your morning ritual. Get your collagen in plus natural caffeine and L-Theanine for that focused, jitter-free energy.* Mix 1 scoop into hot water or milk to make a matcha latte. Or try it in a face mask! Best taken once daily, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Marine Collagen Peptides
Sourced from wild-caught fish, rich in Types I and III. A pescatarian-friendly option that supports hair, skin, and nails*. Unflavored and easy to mix 1 scoop into your favorite beverage or meal once daily, or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Marine Collagen Peptides Dark Chocolate
The same marine collagen profile with a dark chocolate twist. This pescatarian option actually tastes like a treat—perfect for making collagen hot cocoa or for adding sweetness to smoothies. Take 1 scoop once daily or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
Sports Research Beef Gelatin
Made from pasture-raised bovine hides with Types I & III. Unlike peptides, this stuff actually gels when it cools—hello, homemade gummies and jelly! If you’re drinking it, mix 1 scoop into hot liquid once daily or as recommended by a qualified healthcare professional.
We know everyone's trying to sell you the next miracle ingredient—but we’ll always keep it real with you. Collagen really works, but only if you’re consistent with it.* The key is finding one you’ll actually stick with, because the collagen that sits in our cabinet doesn't do us any good.
That's why we’ve created products that fit different lifestyles—because we get that some of us want marine, others want everything in a capsule, and some just want something that tastes great. It's time to make collagen work for you.
Do I Need All 5 Types of Collagen?
Not necessarily. Types I and III handle most of what you need when it comes to skin, hair, and nails. But if you're looking for joint support, the blends with Types II, V, and X offer broader support*.
Collagen Protein vs Whey Protein: What's the Difference?
Both collagen and whey protein are great for your health, especially if you’re active and like to work out. Whey is what most people reach for to support their muscles, and collagen is great for your joints*. Most people can benefit from incorporating both into their routine.
Does Collagen Help Hair Growth?
Collagen supports many of the body's processes.* For personalized advice about your hair goals, we'd recommend talking to a healthcare professional.
Marine Collagen vs Bovine Collagen for Skin
When it comes to skin support, both marine and bovine collagen deliver the Type I collagen your skin loves.* At Sports Research, both are hydrolyzed for easy absorption, so the real difference is usually about your lifestyle and preferences rather than what works better.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Subscribe & Save
- Save 15% on every order
- Free Shipping
- Choose your delivery schedule
- Modify or cancel your subscription anytime