Understanding the Different Types of Collagen

Understanding the Different Types of Collagen 

You may have heard of collagen as the key to plump, hydrated, and glowing skin. But did you  know its benefits go beyond beauty? It can also play a crucial role in keeping your joints,  ligaments and cartilage healthy. 

So how did you know which collagen supplements are right for you? And what do all the different  types mean? We break it down below with some of our fav The Beauty Chef products...

But first, what is collagen? 

Collagen contains the essential amino acids that act as building blocks for healthy skin, teeth,  bones, joints and connective tissue. It is integral to our overall wellness as it supports,  strengthens and maintains our body's structures—right down to the tiniest of blood vessels.  However, collagen levels decline with age due to reduced collagen synthesis. This is where  collagen supplements (and the different types of collagen) come into play... 

The Different Types of Collagen  

Understanding the different types of collagen helps you in navigating and choosing the right  collagen supplements. 

• Type I – The most abundant collagen in the body, type I is essential for skin, bones,  tendons, and connective tissue. It provides structure, strength, and elasticity, making it  a key player in maintaining youthful skin and strong, resilient bones. 

• Type II – Found primarily in cartilage, this type supports joint health by cushioning bones  and allowing for smooth movement. It’s especially important for people with joint  discomfort or arthritis. 

• Type III – Often found alongside type I, type III collagen is crucial for blood vessels, the  uterus, and the digestive tract. It supports tissue flexibility and plays a role in wound  healing and organ health. 

• Type IV – This type forms the basement membrane that lines organs and provides a  protective barrier, particularly in the skin and kidneys. 

• Type V – Essential for hair, cell surfaces, and the formation of tissues like the placenta,  type V collagen contributes to healthy hair growth and overall tissue development. 

Most beauty-focused collagen supplements prioritise type I collagen since this type is the most  abundant and critical for skin and connective tissue. Meanwhile, joint-support formulas often  contain type II collagen to improve joint health and reduce discomfort. 

How to Choose the Right Collagen for You

Whether you’re looking to bring back bouncy skin or support your joints to move freely, you  need to choose the collagen type that will most benefit your health and wellness goals, as well  as your lifestyle. 

Collagen for... Joint Support 

If you’re looking to support your joint, ligament and cartilage health, type II collagen is the one  to look for. The Beauty Chef’s Body Collagen™ deliver 5000 mg of science-backed Fortigel®  hydrolysed collagen peptides in every serve, alongside 10 g of protein, vitamin D from shiitake  mushroom, Aquamin® magnesium & hyaluronic acid to fuel your body and keep it moving freely. 

Collagen for... Bouncy Skin 

Type I collagen supports collagen density, skin elasticity and skin hydration, while protecting  against collagen degradation in the skin. It’s key to look for a formula that contains hydrolysed  collagen peptides, as they’re more bioavailable—even better if it’s 100% clean and sustainably  sourced, like The Beauty Chef’s Deep Marine Collagen™ which is MSC certified. Type I collagen  can also be found alongside type III collagen in The Beauty Chef’s Plumpers™ Collagen Chewables. With fun and juicy flavours to choose from, they’re a delicious and easy way to get  your daily dose on-the-go. 

Collagen for... Vegans & Vegetarians 

All collagen types are animal-derived (ie. bovine and marine). But if you’re vegan or vegetarian,  there are plant-based ingredients that can help to supply your body with the essential co factors required to produce collagen. For example, The Beauty Chef's Collagen Boost™ contains plant-based extracts grapeseed and pomegranate, alongside vitamin C to support collagen  production and zinc to support healthy skin, hair & nails.