The 5 Types of Collagen You Need to Know—And What They’re Doing to Your Body
You’ve heard the hype about collagen. Glowing skin, pain-free joints, thicker hair—it sounds like magic. But what most people don’t realize? There isn’t just one kind of collagen. There are over 28 types, but five are doing the real heavy lifting inside your body.
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Type I – The Skin Tightener
This is the collagen everyone wants. It makes up 90% of your body’s collagen and is responsible for firm skin, strong bones, and longer, healthier hair. Want that youthful glow? Type I’s your MVP.
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Type II – The Joint Savior
Found in cartilage, this one keeps your joints flexible and pain-free. It’s what your knees are begging for after leg day (or just getting out of bed after 30).
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Type III – The Smooth Operator
Often paired with Type I, this one supports your gut, blood vessels, and organs. It also helps your skin stay smooth and elastic—a quiet but powerful player.
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Type IV – The Cell Shield
This one’s all about protection. It lines your organs, skin layers, and eyes—playing defense to keep your cells safe and stable.
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Type V – The Collagen Organizer
Think of this as the collagen traffic controller. It organizes collagen fibers and supports some of your most delicate tissues—like your eyes, placenta, and hair.
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Bottom Line:
Not all collagen is created equal. If your supplement isn’t targeting the right type, you might be missing the real benefits. Know the difference—and let collagen work smarter, not harder.
