Collagen is one of the most important proteins in your body—it acts as a building block for skin, joints, bones, and more. No wonder it has become one of the most popular wellness supplements on the market today. From supporting glowing skin to keeping your joints moving with ease, collagen is a versatile addition to any health routine.
Take a walk down the supplement aisle, and you’ll see just how many choices there are: powders, capsules, and even convenient ready-to-drink options. But before you decide which one is right for you, let’s look at the different types of collagen and why they matter.
The Main Types of Collagen
Not all collagen is the same—each type plays a different role in keeping your body strong and healthy:
-
Type I – Makes up about 90% of the collagen in your body. It’s found in skin, tendons, bones, and connective tissues, giving them strength and structure.
-
Type II – Found in cartilage, this type helps cushion and support your joints.
-
Type III – Present in muscles, blood vessels, and organs, where it helps maintain their shape and function.
-
Other Types – Collagen also exists in various forms throughout the body, all contributing to tissue resilience and flexibility.
Collagen and Beauty
Collagen is often celebrated as a “beauty booster”—and for good reason. As we get older, the body naturally produces less collagen, which can lead to changes in skin firmness and hydration. By adding a quality collagen supplement to your routine, you can help support healthy, youthful-looking skin from within.
Collagen and Healthy Aging
Collagen doesn’t only matter for looks—it’s also an important part of aging well. Since natural collagen production slows with time, supplementation can play a key role in keeping your skin moisturized and your joints comfortable as the years go by.
Collagen for Active Lifestyles
Whether you’re a casual runner, a weekend hiker, or a professional athlete, your skin and joints work hard every day. Collagen can help support joint mobility, flexibility, and recovery, while also promoting strong, healthy skin. Sports-focused collagen supplements are designed to meet these needs, but even a general collagen product can be a valuable addition to your fitness routine.
Quick Guide: Getting the Best Out of Collagen
Want to make sure you’re getting the maximum benefit? Here’s a handy checklist:
-
Pick hydrolyzed collagen – This form is broken down into peptides, making it easier for your body to absorb and use.
-
Add vitamin C – Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, so pair your supplement with it (or look for products that already contain it).
-
Balance with BCAAs – Since collagen doesn’t naturally contain branched-chain amino acids, consider adding a BCAA supplement if collagen is your main source of protein.
-
Spread your intake – You don’t have to take it all at once. Mix collagen into your morning coffee and enjoy a collagen-rich snack later in the day to keep your levels steady.
✨ The bottom line: Collagen isn’t just another supplement trend—it’s a powerful way to support your skin, joints, and overall health at every stage of life. With the right product and a few smart pairing strategies, you can easily make collagen part of your daily routine.