Collagen has quickly become one of the most talked-about supplements in the wellness world—and for good reason. It’s a tried and tested supplement that improves your skin’s glow, strengthens your hair, strengthen your joints, and supports gut health. But if you’ve ever shopped for collagen, you’ve probably noticed there’s more than one type out there. The two most popular? Marine collagen and bovine collagen. So how do you choose between them? Or better yet… should you?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between marine and bovine collagen, and why choosing both might just be the smartest move for your health and beauty goals.
What Is Collagen and Why Do We Need It?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. Think of it as the glue that holds everything together—it supports your skin, joints, bones, muscles, and even your gut lining. As we age (starting around 20!), our natural collagen production slows down. Cue the fine lines, joint stiffness, and weaker hair and nails.
That’s why collagen supplements are not optional, they’re a necessity. They help replenish the collagen your body gradually loses, and the benefits are backed by science:
- Improved skin elasticity and hydration【study】
- Reduced joint pain【study】
- Stronger hair and nails【study】
But not all collagen is created equal!
Let’s compare marine vs. bovine collagen to help you decide which fits your needs.
What is Marine Collagen?
Marine collagen comes from fish skin and scales. It’s predominantly Type I collagen, the same type that makes up a large portion of your skin, bones, and tendons.
Benefits of Marine Collagen
- Skin health & anti-aging: Marine collagen is famous for promoting smoother skin, reducing wrinkles, and increasing hydration. One study found that daily marine collagen improved skin elasticity and reduced fine lines.
- High bioavailability: Marine collagen peptides are smaller, making them easier for your body to absorb—up to 1.5 times more efficiently than bovine collagen.
- Sustainability factor: When sourced responsibly, marine collagen makes use of parts of the fish that would otherwise go to waste.
Who is Marine Collagen Best For?
- Anyone focusing on skin health and anti-aging.
- Pesco-vegetarians or those avoiding land-animal products.
What is Bovine Collagen?
Bovine collagen is derived from cow hides and bones. It contains both Type I and Type III collagen, which are essential for skin, muscles, blood vessels, and organs.
Benefits of Bovine Collagen
- Joint & bone support: Type III collagen in bovine collagen is key for connective tissues, making it great for joint health and mobility【study】.
- Gut health: Bovine collagen may help strengthen the gut lining, supporting digestion and potentially reducing symptoms of leaky gut.
- Muscle recovery & strength: Great for athletes and active individuals needing recovery support.
Who is Bovine Collagen Best For?
- Those wanting overall body benefits—from joints to gut health.
- People looking for a more affordable collagen supplement.
The Power of a Multi-Source Collagen
If you’re still wondering whether marine or bovine collagen is better for you… here’s a thought: why not both? Choosing just one source of collagen often means you’re leaving important health benefits on the table.
We carefully formulated a multi collagen supplement called +boost Super Multi Collagen to deliver a full spectrum of collagen types (Type I, II, III, V and X) in one convenient scoop.
Let’s break it down.
Bovine Collagen Peptides
+boost Super Multi Collagen includes hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides, derived from the connective tissues and hides of cows. These peptides are rich in Type I and Type III collagen—the foundational building blocks for:
- Healthy, radiant skin
- Stronger hair and nails
- Bone density and strength
Why it matters: Type I makes up 90% of your body’s collagen, especially in your skin, tendons, and bones, while Type III provides structural support for your organs and skin. Bovine collagen is also highly bioavailable and easily digestible, making it an efficient way to replenish these critical types of collagen.
👉 What you’re missing with single-source marine collagen: If you only use marine collagen, you’re getting plenty of Type I—but missing out on Type III, which supports skin elasticity and organ health.
Fish Collagen Peptides
Marine-sourced fish collagen peptides, often extracted from cod or salmon, are another star ingredient in +boost Super Multi Collagen. They offer pure Type I collagen, which:
- Boosts skin hydration
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Supports overall collagen synthesis
Fish collagen peptides have superior bioavailability because of their smaller molecular size. They’re absorbed faster, making them a fantastic option for skin rejuvenation and joint support.
👉 What you’re missing with single-source bovine collagen: While bovine collagen delivers Types I and III, it can’t offer the ultra-small peptides and superior skin hydration benefits that come from marine collagen.
Bovine Cartilage Type II
For anyone dealing with stiff or achy joints, bovine cartilage Type II collagen is a must. This specific collagen type is found in cartilage and connective tissue, making it critical for:
- Joint flexibility and mobility
- Cartilage repair and maintenance
- Reducing joint discomfort and stiffness
Type II collagen works differently from Types I and III because it directly supports the smooth functioning of your joints by promoting cartilage integrity. Research suggests it may even help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis and joint inflammation.
👉 What you’re missing with marine and bovine skin collagen supplements: Most marine and bovine collagen supplements only focus on Types I and III, and skip Type II entirely. Without it, you’re missing out on targeted joint health and cartilage support.
Eggshell Membrane Collagen
+boost Super Multi Collagen also includes eggshell membrane collagen, which adds another layer of comprehensive support. It contains Type I collagen, but with some bonus nutrients:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate (joint health and flexibility)
- Hyaluronic acid (enhances skin hydration and reduces wrinkles)
- Anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness
Eggshell membrane collagen offers a natural blend of compounds that work together to promote joint mobility while enhancing skin elasticity.
👉 What you’re missing with other single-source collagen products: You won’t get the extra joint-nourishing compounds like glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid in standard bovine or marine collagen supplements. These extras provide synergistic benefits for both skin and joints.
The Bottom Line: Why Settle for One When You Can Have It All?
If you stick to only marine collagen, you’ll likely see great results for skin health, but you’re missing out on Type III and Type II collagen—vital for joints, bones, and connective tissue.
If you choose only bovine collagen, you might support skin and bone health with Type I and III, but you’re still missing Type II collagen for joint health—and you’re not getting the high absorption rate and skin hydration benefits of marine collagen.
And if you’re not including eggshell membrane collagen, you’re missing out on powerful joint-soothing compounds like glucosamine and hyaluronic acid, which amplify the benefits for both joints and skin.
Ready to Experience the Best of Both Worlds?
Don’t limit yourself to one type of collagen when your body can benefit from all three. +boost Super Multi Collagen delivers everything you need for skin that glows, joints that move with ease, and a body that feels as good as it looks. It comes in powder or capsule form. For more information, click below:
