Collagen Types I, II & III: What They Do and Which One You Need
If you’ve ever browsed for a collagen supplement, you’ve probably come across terms like "Type I collagen" or "Type III collagen" without a clue what they actually mean. Most brands throw these terms around, but few explain what each type does, why it matters, and which one is right for you.
At GoodnessBox, we believe in helping you make informed decisions. Here’s a no-nonsense breakdown of collagen types I, II, and III—so you can choose a supplement that actually works for your needs.
What Is Collagen, and Why Does It Matter?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It forms the structural framework of your skin, joints, bones, ligaments, cartilage, and more. As we age (or deal with stress, inflammation, or poor diet), our natural collagen production slows down. Cue the wrinkles, joint aches, and brittle nails.
Supplementing with collagen can help replenish what’s lost—if you take the right type.
Type I Collagen
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Where it's found: Skin, tendons, bones, ligaments, and teeth
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Best for: Skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, strong hair and nails, bone density
Type I is the most common type of collagen in the body—and the one most associated with healthy, youthful skin. It’s also the primary ingredient in most marine collagen supplements.
💡 Want better skin, stronger nails, and firmer hair? Type I is your go-to.
Explore Type I Collagen Products →
Type II Collagen
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Where it's found: Cartilage, joints, spinal discs
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Best for: Joint mobility, cartilage regeneration, arthritis support
Type II is the key building block for healthy cartilage. This makes it ideal for anyone dealing with joint stiffness, osteoarthritis, or sports-related wear and tear.
💡 Struggling with joint pain or mobility issues? Look for a collagen that includes Type II.
Type III Collagen
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Where it's found: Skin, lungs, blood vessels, intestines
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Best for: Skin elasticity, gut lining, cardiovascular health
Type III often works alongside Type I in the skin. It’s also a big player in gut repair and vascular health.
💡 Looking for glowing skin plus digestive or heart health support? Type III is the backup dancer you didn’t know you needed.
View Multi-Type Collagen Blends →
So... Which One Should You Take?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Your Goal | Best Collagen Type |
|---|---|
| Glowing skin & anti-ageing | Type I & III |
| Joint repair & arthritis relief | Type II |
| Gut & vascular support | Type III |
| Whole-body wellness | Multi-type formula |
Final Word
Don’t fall for buzzwords. When choosing a collagen supplement, flip the label and see what types are actually inside. The right type—or better yet, the right blend—makes all the difference.
And remember: At GoodnessBox, we only stock clean, effective, and practitioner-trusted formulas. No hype. Just results.