Collagen supplements are more popular than ever — and for good reason. They help support youthful skin, stronger joints, healthier hair, and improved overall well-being. But if you’re new to collagen or simply trying to decide which type fits your needs, you’ve likely come across the two most common types: marine collagen and bovine collagen.

Both offer powerful benefits, but they aren’t the same. Each type works best for certain goals, lifestyles, and health needs. Below, we break down the differences so you can confidently choose the right collagen at the right time.

What Is Collagen — and Why Does It Matter?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It provides structure to your:

• Skin
• Hair
• Nails
• Bones
• Joints
• Tendons
• Gut lining

From our mid-20s, natural collagen levels start dropping by about 1% each year. This leads to visible signs of ageing, stiffness in joints, and weaker hair and nails. Supplementing with collagen can help restore this decline — but choosing the right type is key.

Marine Collagen: What It Is and When to Use It

Source:

Marine collagen is extracted from the skin and scales of fish.

Type of collagen:

Primarily Type I collagen — the type most closely linked to skin health.

Best For: Skin, Hair, and Nail Support

Marine collagen has the smallest particle size and the highest bioavailability. That means your body can absorb it faster and more effectively.

Choose marine collagen if your goals include:

✔ Reducing fine lines and wrinkles

✔ Improving skin elasticity and hydration

✔ Strengthening hair and nails

✔ Supporting healthy ageing

✔ Choosing a pescatarian-friendly collagen option

Why Use Marine Collagen?

• High bioavailability means quick absorption.
• Excellent for beauty benefits (skin, hair, and nails)
• Contains Type I collagen, the most abundant collagen in your skin
• Ideal for people who don’t consume beef products

Best Time to Use Marine Collagen

Take it daily — morning or night — to support visible skin improvements over time. Many people mix it into:

• Smoothies
• Vitamin-infused water
• Coffee
• Herbal tea

Bovine Collagen: What It Is and When to Use It

Source:

Bovine collagen comes from the hide of cows.

Types of collagen:

A mix of Type I and Type III collagen, making it a more multifunctional option.

Best For: Joint, Bone & Muscle Support

Bovine collagen is known for its ability to support the body beyond its beauty benefits.

Choose bovine collagen if your goals include:

✔ Supporting healthy joints

✔ Strengthening bones

✔ Promoting muscle recovery

✔ Improving gut health

✔ Boosting skin elasticity along with body-wide benefits

Why Use Bovine Collagen?

• Strong joint and bone support
• Great for athletes, active lifestyles, or ageing joints
• Helps support gut lining and digestion
• Contains both Type I & III collagen for full-body benefits

Best Time to Use Bovine Collagen

Take it daily in:

• Coffee
• Protein shakes
• Post-workout drinks
• Soups or broths

Marine vs Bovine Collagen: Side-by-Side Comparison

Benefit / Feature Marine Collagen Bovine Collagen

Source Fish Cow

Collagen Type I Type I & III

Best For Skin, hair, nails, Joints, bones, gut

Bioavailability Highest High

Diet Suitability: Pescatarian-friendly. Not suitable for pescatarians

Taste / Texture Very smooth, neutral Neutral but slightly thicker

Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s how to decide quickly:

Choose Marine Collagen If You Want:

• Youthful, glowing skin
• Stronger hair and nails
• Fast absorption
• Pescatarian-friendly collagen

Choose Bovine Collagen If You Want:

• Better joint mobility and flexibility
• Stronger bones and tendons
• Gut health support
• Overall body wellness

Can You Take Both?

Yes — many people combine them!

For example:

• Marine collagen in the morning for skin benefits
• Bovine collagen after workouts for joint and muscle recovery

This dual approach supports the body inside and out.

Final Thoughts

Both marine and bovine collagen deliver incredible benefits, but each works best for different wellness goals. If you want more radiant skin and beauty-focused results, marine collagen is your go-to. If you want stronger joints, bones, and overall body support, bovine collagen offers a more complete solution.

And if you want the best of both worlds?

You can safely use them together to boost both beauty and wellbeing.