Does It Matter What Type of Collagen You Take?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Exactly Is Collagen?
3. The Big Three: Understanding Types I, II, and III
4. Does the Type on the Label Actually Matter?
5. The Signaling Effect of Collagen Peptides
6. Quality and Hydrolyzation: The Real Priorities
7. Sourcing Matters: Bovine vs. Marine
8. How to Support Your Body’s Collagen Production
9. How to Use Collagen in Your Routine
10. The BUBS Naturals Approach to Wellness
11. Conclusion
12. FAQ

Introduction

You’ve likely seen the growing wall of options in the supplement aisle or the endless list of results when searching for a daily protein boost. Every label seems to scream about different "types" of collagen—Type I, Type II, Type III, or even multi-collagen blends. It is enough to make anyone pause. If you are trying to support your recovery after a long trail run or simply want to keep your joints moving smoothly as you age, you need to know if these distinctions actually impact your results.

At BUBS Naturals, we believe in keeping things simple and effective. The world of supplements is often clouded by marketing jargon that makes health feel more complicated than it needs to be. Understanding how collagen works in your body helps you cut through the noise and choose a product like our Collagen Peptides that supports your active lifestyle without the guesswork.

This guide will break down the science of collagen types, how your body processes them, and whether the specific "type" on the label changes how you feel. We will explore the primary forms of this essential protein and explain why the quality of the source often outweighs the number of types listed. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to fuel your adventures and recover with confidence.

Quick Answer: While there are 28 types of collagen, Types I and III make up about 90% of the collagen in your body and are the most important for skin, hair, nails, and connective tissue. For most people, a high-quality, hydrolyzed Type I and III supplement provides the best overall support for recovery and daily wellness.

What Exactly Is Collagen?

To understand if the type matters, we first need to look at what collagen is. Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, accounting for roughly 30% of your total protein mass. Think of it as the structural "glue" that holds everything together. It provides the framework for your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and even your blood vessels.

Structurally, collagen is a complex protein made of three chains of amino acids wound together in a triple helix. The primary amino acids involved are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Your body produces this protein naturally, but the process requires specific cofactors like Vitamin C, zinc, and copper to function correctly.

As we age, or as we put our bodies through intense physical stress, our natural collagen production begins to slow down. Most people notice this decline starting in their 20s. By the time we hit 40 or 50, the signs become more apparent: stiffer joints, slower recovery from workouts, and less elasticity in the skin. This is why many people turn to supplementation—to provide the body with the raw materials it needs to maintain these critical structures.

The Big Three: Understanding Types I, II, and III

While scientists have identified 28 different types of collagen, the vast majority of the collagen in your body falls into three categories. These are the ones you will see most often on supplement labels.

Type I: The All-Rounder

Type I collagen makes up about 90% of the collagen in your body. It is composed of very densely packed fibers that provide structure to your skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Because it is so ubiquitous, Type I is often considered the gold standard for general wellness. If your goals include maintaining skin elasticity, strengthening your hair and nails, and supporting the structural integrity of your connective tissues after a heavy lifting session or a long day on the mountain, What Are Collagen Peptides and Their Benefits? is a helpful place to start.

Type II: The Joint Specialist

Type II collagen is found primarily in elastic cartilage. This is the tissue that cushions your joints and allows for smooth movement. While Type I is about "strength," Type II is more about "cushioning." If you are a high-impact athlete, such as a runner or someone who does a lot of jumping, Type II is often the focus of joint-specific supplements. However, it is usually found in much smaller quantities than Type I.

Type III: The Support System

Type III collagen is usually found alongside Type I. It is a major component of our muscles, arteries, and internal organs. It plays a critical role in the health of the cardiovascular system and the integrity of the gut lining. Because Type I and Type III are so closely linked in their functions and where they are found in the body, they are almost always paired together in high-quality bovine-sourced supplements.

Does the Type on the Label Actually Matter?

This is where the science gets interesting. A common myth in the wellness industry is that if you want better skin, you must take Type I, and if you want better joints, you must take Type II. The reality is more nuanced.

When you ingest collagen, your body does not absorb the protein whole. Whether you take Type I, II, or III, your digestive system breaks that protein down into individual amino acids and small chains called peptides. These components enter your "amino acid pool." From there, your body decides where those building blocks are needed most.

If you have a minor injury in your shoulder, your body might send those amino acids to repair connective tissue. If your skin is damaged by the sun, it might use them to support dermal repair. You cannot "target" a specific area by choosing a specific type of collagen. In this sense, the "type" matters less than the overall supply of high-quality amino acids you are providing.

Key Takeaway: Your body breaks down all collagen into the same basic building blocks (amino acids). While different types exist in different tissues, a high-quality Type I and III supplement provides the necessary raw materials for your body to distribute wherever repair is most needed.

The Signaling Effect of Collagen Peptides

While the "amino acid pool" theory is true, there is a second way collagen works: signaling. High-quality collagen supplements are "hydrolyzed," meaning they are broken down into very small peptides. When these peptides enter your bloodstream, they do more than just provide building blocks. They actually act as messengers.

These peptides can signal your body’s own cells—like fibroblasts in the skin or chondrocytes in the joints—to ramp up their own natural collagen production. This is why many people report benefits in their joints even when taking a supplement that is primarily Type I and III. By providing the signals and the materials, you are helping your body do what it already knows how to do, just more efficiently.

Quality and Hydrolyzation: The Real Priorities

If the specific "type" is not the most important factor, what is? For those of us who live active lives and demand a lot from our bodies, the answer is bioavailability and purity.

Hydrolyzed collagen (also known as collagen peptides) is the form you should look for. In its raw state, the collagen molecule is too large for the human gut to absorb effectively. Hydrolysis uses enzymes to break these long chains into shorter ones. These smaller peptides are "pre-digested," making them highly bioavailable. This means they can be absorbed into the bloodstream quickly and put to work.

Our Collagen Peptides are a prime example of this philosophy. We focus on a single-ingredient, grass-fed, and pasture-raised bovine collagen that is predominantly Type I and III. We choose this because it provides the most versatile range of benefits for the widest variety of people. Whether you are looking to support your gut health, recover from a grueling workout, or maintain healthy skin, these types provide the heavy lifting.

Myth: You need a "Multi-Collagen" blend with 5 or 10 types to see results. Fact: Most of the benefits attributed to collagen come from Types I and III. Adding tiny amounts of other types often serves more as a marketing tactic than a functional improvement. Focusing on a high-quality, clean source of Types I and III is typically more effective.

Sourcing Matters: Bovine vs. Marine

When you are deciding on a collagen supplement, you will often choose between bovine (cow) and marine (fish) sources. This choice impacts the types of collagen you receive. If you want a simple framework for comparing options, How to Choose Collagen Peptides can help.

• Bovine Collagen: This is usually sourced from cow hides. It is naturally rich in Types I and III. Because these are the two most abundant types in the human body, bovine collagen is exceptionally effective for whole-body support. It is also typically more cost-effective and flavor-neutral, making it easy to stir into coffee or a post-workout shake.
• Marine Collagen: Sourced from fish scales and skin, this is almost exclusively Type I. While Type I is fantastic for skin and bone health, marine collagen lacks the Type III that supports muscle and organ structure. It is a great option for those who do not eat beef, but it is often more expensive and can sometimes have a slight "sea" aftertaste if not processed carefully.

We prefer bovine sourcing for our core products because it aligns with the needs of the active community. It is rugged, versatile, and provides the broad-spectrum support required for intense physical activity and recovery.

How to Support Your Body’s Collagen Production

Taking a supplement is a great step, but it is only one part of the equation. To get the most out of your collagen, you need to support the biological environment where collagen is built.

The Role of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a non-negotiable cofactor for collagen synthesis. Without it, your body cannot effectively link those amino acids together to form the triple helix structure. If you are taking collagen but are deficient in Vitamin C, you are not getting the full benefit. This is why we recommend pairing your daily scoop with a diet rich in citrus, bell peppers, or a high-quality Vitamin C supplement.

Avoid Collagen Killers

You can take all the supplements in the world, but if your lifestyle is actively destroying your collagen, you will be fighting an uphill battle. Several factors accelerate collagen degradation:

• Excessive UV Exposure: Sun damage breaks down collagen fibers in the skin.
• High Sugar Intake: Sugar can lead to "glycation," where sugar molecules attach to proteins and make them brittle.
• Smoking: This restricts blood flow and significantly impairs the body’s ability to repair connective tissue.
• Lack of Sleep: This is when your body does its heavy-duty repair work. If you skip sleep, you skip recovery.

How to Use Collagen in Your Routine

One of the reasons we love collagen is how easily it fits into a busy, adventurous life. It doesn't require a complicated ritual. Because high-quality peptides are flavorless and dissolve easily, you can add them to almost anything.

A standard dose is usually around 10 to 20 grams per day. For most, one scoop of a high-quality powder is sufficient. If you are recovering from an injury or training for an ultra-marathon, you might find that your body responds well to a slightly higher intake.

Many of our community members start their day by mixing a scoop into their morning coffee. If you want an extra boost of mental clarity and sustained energy, you can pair it with our MCT Oil Creamer. The healthy fats from the MCTs provide fuel for your brain, while the collagen supports your structural health. It is a simple, effective way to start the day with purpose.

Important: While collagen is a protein, it is not a "complete" protein because it lacks the essential amino acid tryptophan. It is a fantastic supplement for connective tissue and recovery, but it should not be your only source of protein. Continue eating a diverse diet of whole foods to ensure you get a full amino acid profile.

The BUBS Naturals Approach to Wellness

We didn't start this brand just to sell supplements. We started it to honor the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty, a Navy SEAL, adventurer, and friend who lived life to the fullest. The BUBS story drives every decision we make.

Our products are designed to be "no BS." We use simple, clean ingredients that are backed by science. We also ensure that our products are NSF for Sport certified, so athletes and professionals can know exactly what is going into their bodies. We don't use fillers or artificial sweeteners because they don't help you perform better.

When you choose us, you are also choosing to give back. In honor of Glen, we donate 10% of all profits to veteran-focused charities. It is a way to ensure that our pursuit of wellness serves a greater purpose.

Bottom line: The best collagen is the one you will actually take every day. Don't get bogged down in the "types" debate. Focus on finding a clean, high-quality, hydrolyzed source of Types I and III, and let your body do the rest.

Conclusion

Does it matter what type of collagen you take? To an extent, yes—but perhaps not in the way marketing might lead you to believe. Types I and III are the workhorses of the body, providing the structural support for nearly everything from your skin to your gut lining. While Type II has its place in joint-specific care, a high-quality bovine-sourced peptide powder covers the vast majority of your needs.

The most important factors are the quality of the source, the ease of absorption (hydrolyzation), and your consistency. By choosing a clean product and supporting it with a healthy lifestyle and Vitamin C, you are giving your body the best chance to stay strong and resilient.

• Focus on Types I and III for general recovery, skin, and structural health.
• Ensure it is hydrolyzed for maximum bioavailability.
• Support production with Vitamin C and a balanced diet.
• Be consistent to see the best long-term results.

If you want to shop the full lineup, start with the Collagen Peptides collection. Mix it into your favorite drink, and get back to the adventure.

We are here to support your journey, whether you are hitting the gym, the trail, or just trying to feel your best as you navigate a busy life. For more on the mission behind the brand, read the BUBS story.

FAQ

Can I take Type I and Type III together?

Yes, and in most bovine-sourced collagen supplements, you are already doing so. These two types naturally coexist in cow hides and work together to support the skin, muscles, and connective tissues. They are highly compatible and provide a broad range of benefits for the entire body. For a deeper look, What Are Collagen Peptides and Their Benefits? is a useful companion read.

Is multi-collagen better than a single-source collagen?

Not necessarily. While multi-collagen blends contain more types, they often contain only trace amounts of the less common types (like IV or V). For most people, a high-quality, concentrated source of Types I and III is more effective. If you want a side-by-side breakdown, What Type of Collagen is Collagen Peptides? Understanding the Types and Benefits of Collagen goes deeper.

How long does it take to see results from collagen?

Results vary depending on the individual and the goal. Many people report improvements in skin hydration and nail strength within 4 to 6 weeks of daily use. Joint support and muscle recovery benefits may take slightly longer, often becoming noticeable after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent supplementation. For a consistency-focused overview, Why Take Collagen Daily: The Foundation for Longevity and Vitality is worth a look.

Should I take collagen on an empty stomach?

You can take collagen at any time that fits your schedule. Some people prefer taking it on an empty stomach to ensure rapid absorption, while others find it easier to mix into a meal or a protein shake. The most important factor is consistent daily intake, regardless of the timing.