14/04/2026
Hey everyone,
I just wanted to share an answer to a question I was asked today about collagen, and the differences between the types found in marine vs bovine collagen, mainly Type I and Type III.
So marine collagen (from fish) is predominantly Type I collagen, which is the most abundant structural collagen in the body (around 90%). It plays a major role in skin, hair, nails, bones and connective tissue. This is why marine collagen is often used for more skin and beauty-focused benefits, even though the benefits still extend to structural tissues.
Bovine collagen (from cows) on the other hand typically provides both Type I and Type III collagen. Type III is commonly found alongside Type I in tissues like skin, muscles, ligaments and blood vessels, so bovine collagen can offer slightly broader connective-tissue support, it just tends to be less specifically skin-targeted than marine collagen, which is richer in Type I.
However it’s important to note that the evidence for Type I and III collagen directly improving joint pain is relatively modest. For joint pain, nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids have stronger evidence, mainly because they help reduce inflammation, which is often a major driver of joint discomfort.
Interestingly, there are 28 different types of collagen in the body, but the only other one worth mentioning here is Type II collagen, which is the main collagen found in cartilage. Some studies suggest that supplementing with undenatured Type II collagen may help reduce joint pain and stiffness, particularly in people with osteoarthritis. However, intake of omega-3 is would still likely have more impact here due to reducing inflammation, which is likely a major contributor to joint pain.
As you know, I personally go back and forth between marine and bovine collagen. This way I get the ongoing benefits of marine collagen for skin, hair and nails, along with the slightly broader connective-tissue support that bovine collagen provides.
Here are the two different collagen products I use and recommend along with my discount codes, you’re welcome ☺️
https://zooki.com/STEJAY21
https://www.lovelifesupplements.co.uk/STEPHEN
Let me know if you have any questions.