Marine Collagen Vs Other Types of Collagen: Which One Is Best?

Introduction

Collagen has become one of the most common nutritional supplements to support healthy skin, hair, nails, joints and overall wellbeing. Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein and a major structural component of connective tissues. It provides strength and structural support while contributing to skin elasticity, joint mobility, bone health, and healthy ageing.

But as we age, collagen production naturally decreases. From our mid-20s, collagen production begins to decline and environmental factors such as ultraviolet (UV) exposure, smoking, poor nutrition, stress and pollution accelerate collagen breakdown. This drop results in the visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles, loose skin, brittle nails, thinning hair and lack of flexibility in joints.

As people become more aware of the benefits of collagen for health and beauty, supplement manufacturers are looking to a range of sources like marine collagen, bovine collagen, chicken collagen, porcine collagen and even plant-based collagen boosters. They each have their characteristics and potential benefits, but trying to work out which one is the best fit can be confusing.

In this blog, we’ll compare the different kinds of collagen, explain where they come from, what they’re made of and what they’re good for, and help you figure out which collagen might work best for health and wellness goals.

What is Marine Collagen? 

Marine Collagen is a collagen protein extracted from the skin, scales and bones of fish. It is mostly type I collagen, which is the most abundant collagen in the human skin, tendons, ligaments, bones and connective tissues. Marine collagen is often hydrolysed into collagen peptides to increase absorption. Hydrolysed collagen is broken-down pieces of protein that are easier for the body to digest and absorb. [1]

Benefits of Marine Collagen 

Research shows that regular supplementation of marine collagen peptides may help support: 

Marine collagen is often considered one of the preferred collagen sources for those whose main concern is skin health and healthy ageing due to its high bioavailability. [2]

Understanding Animal Collagen 

Most commercially available collagen supplements are made from animal sources. These collagen proteins are sourced from connective tissues including skin, cartilage, bones, or tendons and then hydrolysed into smaller collagen peptides for better absorption. Different animal sources contain different collagen types, which will impact their potential uses. 

There are 4 main sources of collagen from animals: 

Each source has a unique amino acid profile and collagen composition, making it appropriate for different health goals. [3]

Bovine Collagen

Bovine collagen is derived from the hides, bones and connective tissue of cattle. It's one of the most widely available collagen supplements and usually contains Type I and Type III collagen. Bovine collagen is often found in supplements meant to support the health of skin and connective tissue because it contains both Type I and Type III collagen. 

Bovine collagen might help: 

Bovine collagen is widely available and inexpensive but may not be suitable for someone on a pescatarian diet or who avoids bovine products for dietary, religious or personal reasons.

Chicken Collagen

Chicken collagen is mainly obtained from chicken cartilage and connective tissue. Chicken collagen is higher in type II collagen, which is a major structural component of cartilage compared to marine and bovine collagen.  

Chicken collagen has lower levels of Type I collagen than marine collagen and is less common in supplements that are marketed mainly for skin health. 

Chicken collagen is commonly linked to support for: 

Porcine Collagen

Porcine collagen is derived from the skin and connective tissue of pigs. Its collagen profile is similar to that of bovine collagen and consists primarily of Type I and Type III collagen. Porcine collagen is used in nutritional supplements and some medical applications because its amino acid profile closely resembles that of human collagen. 

Porcine collagen may help support: 

Porcine collagen may not be suitable for those who have religious, ethical or dietary restrictions against pork-derived products.

Plant-Based Collagen Boosters

Plant-based collagen boosters do not actually contain collagen rather they contain the key nutrients that your body needs to produce its own collagen. These products provide the body with the necessary nutrients that help it to produce natural collagen.  

One of these nutrients is vitamin C, which is one of the most vital. Vitamin C is the most important nutrient for collagen production as it is a direct collagen-building agent, providing skin-brightening effects and general skin wellness benefits. Biotin and amino acids work together to help maintain the strength and structure of hair, skin and nails.  

The added health benefits of antioxidants mean these products provide even more advantages. Antioxidants also help protect collagen from environmental damage, so it’s less likely to break down from UV radiation and pollution.  

Berries, seeds, herbs and leafy green vegetables are the basic ingredients to produce plant-based boosters. These products’ plant-based ingredients support collagen health, so they’re suitable for vegans and those with plant-based skincare routines. Plant-based collagen boosters feed the body from the inside out for long-term nourishment, but it takes a bit longer to see results compared to marine collagen. Plant-based collagen boosters are a trusted solution for sustainable wellness practitioners. [4] 

Comparison Table: Marine Collagen vs Other Types of Collagen

The best collagen supplement for you depends on your health goals, dietary preferences and the type of collagen your body needs. The table below compares the most common sources of collagen.

Marine collagen is naturally rich in Type I collagen, the primary collagen in skin, making it a popular choice to support skin elasticity, hydration and healthy ageing. 

2. Is marine collagen better than bovine? 

Both have their merits. Marine collagen is generally best for skin, owing to its high Type I collagen content and superior bioavailability, while bovine collagen offers both Type I and III collagen for more general connective tissue support. 

3. Are plant collagen supplements actually collagen? 

No, plant-based collagen products do not have collagen. Instead, they offer nutrients like vitamin C, biotin, zinc and antioxidants that help support your body's natural collagen production.

4. Can I take collagen daily?

Collagen supplements are usually meant for daily use at the recommended dosage of the manufacturer. And regular supplementation can help support the body’s natural collagen-building process.

5. Who should consider taking marine collagen?

Marine collagen may be appropriate for adults wishing to support healthy ageing, skin elasticity, fine lines, hair strength, nail health or general connective tissue support. If you have a fish allergy, consult a health professional before use.

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