Which collagen to choose? The Complete Guide to Collagen Types
Publié le 30-04-2024 et mis à jour le 13-12-2024
Collagen is a protein that is naturally abundant in the body and gives our skin its firmness and radiance.
Although we often speak of collagen in the singular, it would be more precise to speak of collagens in the plural.
In fact, there are 29 different types of collagen in the human body, each with its own structure and function.
To compensate for the decrease in collagen linked to aging, many collagen-based food supplements are available on the market. But then, which collagen to choose?
Whether it is marine collagen, collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen, it can be difficult to make an informed choice and to decode the labels.
Faced with this diversity, it can be complex to make the right choice. Whether you're new to skincare or a skincare enthusiast looking for in-depth tips, this article has you covered.
We'll review the different types of collagen and give you sound advice on choosing the one that best suits your needs.
Also read: What is collagen? and What are the benefits of collagen?
Summary
I. The different sources of collagen II. The different states of collagen 1. Solubilized collagen 2. Undenatured collagen 3. Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides Collagen Peptides Hydrolyzed collagen III. The different types of collagen 1. Type I collagen 2. Type II collagen 3. Type III collagen IV. Which collagen to choose? Which collagen to take? 1. Collagen as a food supplement For the skin For muscles and joints Discover the collagen range 2. Collagen as a cosmetic active ingredient Our recipes
I. The different sources of collagen
Collagen is an essential protein found in different parts of the human body, including skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. It is also found in some foods.
Today, we are aware of 29 different types of collagen, including 12 in the skin.
Collagens present in the body are classified into several types depending on their structure, size and role.
Among these types, the most abundant in the human body are collagen types 1, 2, 3 and 4. Each of these types performs specific functions in the body.
To choose which collagen is best, it is important to take into account different factors such as origin, qualityand bioavailability of collagen.
Traditionally, collagen was extracted from animal sources such as skin, bones and tendons.
However, with changing ethical preferences and the search for new alternatives, new sources of collagen have emerged.
Some collagen supplements now use alternative sources such as marine collagen , which is extracted from fish, or vegan collagen , which is derived from plant proteins.
These new sources meet the needs of people with specific ethical or dietary concerns.
It is also important to check the quality of the collagen. Look for reputable brands that use rigorous extraction and processing methods to obtain high-quality, pure collagen.
Bioavailability is another key factor to consider. Bioavailability refers to the ability of a dietary supplement to be absorbed and used by the body.
Some collagens have better bioavailability than others due to their size and structure.
It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice on which collagen to choose based on your specific needs and concerns.
They will be able to assess your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate type of collagen supplement for you.
1. Marine collagen
Marine collagen is extracted from the skin, scales and bones of fish. It is often considered one of the purest and most bioavailable sources of collagen.
Marine collagen is particularly rich in type I collagen, which is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body.
It is renowned for its benefits to the skin, including improving elasticity, hydration and reducing wrinkles.
How does marine collagen compare to other sources of collagen?
Marine collagen stands out for its high bioavailability, which means that it is easily absorbed by the body.
Compared to bovine collagen, marine collagen has a smaller molecular structure, making it easier to absorb.
Additionally, marine collagen is often preferred by those following a specific diet or who have ethical concerns regarding terrestrial animal products.
2. Bovine collagen
Bovine collagen is extracted from the skin, bones and muscles of cattle. It is rich in type I and type III collagen.
Bovine collagen is often used for its benefits on joints, bones and skin.
It is also renowned for its ability to support the health of tendons and ligaments.
Which collagen to choose: marine or bovine?
The choice between marine collagen and bovine collagen depends on several factors, including personal preferences, specific needs and ethical concerns.
Marine collagen is often preferred for its skin benefits and high bioavailability, while bovine collagen is valued for its effects on joints and bones.
It is important to choose high-quality collagen, regardless of the source, to ensure optimal effectiveness.
II. The different states of collagen
There are different sources of collagen, but also different states of collagen that can be used as supplements. The question is therefore to know what will be the best and most assimilable state when choosing a food supplement, according to your needs.
The most popular supplements remain hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides, like those used by D-LAB.
1. Solubilized collagen
Solubilized collagenis a liquid form of collagen that is easily absorbed by the body.
It is obtained by a process of fragmentation of native collagen into smaller fragments, which improves its bioavailability.
Solubilized collagen is often used in dietary supplements, topical cosmetics, and skin care products to promote tissue regeneration and improve the appearance of the skin.
2. Undenatured collagen
Undenatured Collagen, also known as Native Collagen, is the form of collagen closest to its original structure in the body.
It is extracted from animal connective tissues and is typically used in the pharmaceutical industry for specific medical applications.
Due to its preserved structure, undenatured collagen retains its biological properties and can be used to stimulate tissue regeneration and support joint health.
3. Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides
Collagen peptides and hydrolyzed collagen are two forms of collagen that have been broken down into smaller fragments.
These two forms of collagen are used in dietary supplements and cosmetic products for their beneficial effects on skin, hair, nails and joints.
Collagen Peptides
Collagen peptides are smaller pieces of collagen protein, resulting from the breakdown of collagen.
They are more easily absorbed by the body due to their reduced size.
Once absorbed, the amino acids they contain can act as cellular messengers and stimulate the synthesis of new collagen.
Hydrolyzed collagen
Unlike collagen peptides, hydrolyzed collagen is all raw collagen that has undergone a hydrolysis process to break it down into smaller collagen peptides.
Hydrolyzed collagen is a processed form of collagen that has undergone an enzymatic process to break it down into smaller peptides.
This facilitates the absorption of collagen by the body.
Hydrolyzed collagen is often used in dietary supplements, beverages and functional foods to support joint, skin and hair health.
Read also : At what time of day to take collagen
III. The different types of collagen
Currently, there are 29 types of collagen identified in the human body, but some of them are more important in terms of their presence and function in the body.
The most frequently mentioned types are collagen type I, collagen type II, and collagen type III, which we will introduce to you.
Read also: collagen and cellulite
1. Type I collagen
This type of collagen is the most abundant in our body.
It is found in large quantities in the skin, tendons, ligaments, bones and >teeth.
Type I collagen forms strong, resilient fibers that give these tissues their structure and resilience.
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 collagen?
Type I collagen is primarily found in skin, tendons, ligaments and bones, while Type II collagen is primarily found in cartilage.
Type I collagen is responsible for the structure and strength of tissues, while type II collagen provides flexibility and resistance to compression of cartilage.
2. Type II collagen
This type of collagen is mainly found in the cartilage, and is responsible for its flexibility and its resistance to compression.
It plays a key role in maintaining joint health and preventing problems related to cartilage wear, such as osteoarthritis.
3. Type III collagen
Type III collagen often accompanies type I collagen and is found particularly in blood vessels, muscles and connective tissue.
It contributes to the flexibility and the resistance of these fabrics.
IV. Which collagen to choose? Which collagen to take?
1. Collagen as a food supplement
For the skin
D-LAB has chosen the most powerful and interesting collagen on the market: a French marine collagen, hydrolyzed, with a low molecular weight and clinically proven anti-aging results!
At D-LAB, our collagen stands out for its marine origin, considered to be the best absorbed by the body.
Through a careful hydrolysis process, we break down collagen into smaller particles, with a molecular weight of approximately 2,000 Da, for optimal absorption.
This unique formula is composed of 94% type I marine collagen and 6% elastin fibers, reproducing the proportions essential for skin health.
With only 2 grams per day, our collagen has proven its remarkable effectiveness in reducing the depth of wrinkles and restoring hydration to the skin /strong>. The dermis becomes more supple and the skin is firmed.
From an ethical and responsible perspective, our collagen comes from MSC-certified French wild fishing, which guarantees not only its quality, but also our commitment to sustainability.
For muscles and joints
Our PRO-COLLAGEN FLEXIBILITY formula contains a different type of collagen. It is a hydrolyzed marine collagen, of type I and III, without elastin, with a molecular weight of approximately 2,000 Da > and benefiting from scientific evidence on joint well-being.
Collagen oligopeptides types I and III have a global action on the skin, tendons and ligaments as well as on muscles and blood vessels.
Easily digestible and associated with vitamin C, they further stimulate the synthesis of collagen in these different places in the body.
Also read: collagen and joints and collagen and muscles
Discover the collagen range
2. Collagen as a cosmetic active ingredient
Collagen-based cosmetic active ingredients are used for their beneficial properties on the skin.
Cosmetic products containing collagen, in the form of peptides or hydrolysates, are designed to strengthen the structure of the skin and reduce the visible signs of aging.
When applied to the skin, these collagen actives can help improve skin tone and elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote deeper hydration.
They can also stimulate the production of new collagen by skin cells, helping to maintain the youthfulness and beauty of the skin.
Collagen cosmetic active ingredients are often found in facial creams, serums and masks, as well as body products, providing a complete solution for firmer, more radiant skin.
Couple your collagen active ingredient with your food supplement or collagen powder for quality In & Out action.
To conclude, in order to know which collagen to choose, you must already know for which problem you wish to treat. From there, choose the best collagen treatment based on your needs and the explanations we have given you.
