When people see collagen they automatiicaly think its a Skin supplememnt. That's understandable. It is everywhere in the beauty world.

But many customers walk into the pharmacy looking for this protein for completely different reasons.

  • They want to stay active.
  • They want stronger joints.
  • They want to keep walking, gardening, golfing, lifting weights or chasing grandchildren around the garden.
  • Others are interested in bone broth, gut health or recovery after exercise.

If that's you, this guide is for you.

First, A Quick Word On The Different Types Of Collagen

Not all types of this protein are the same.

There are at least 28 known types of collagen in the body, but three are talked about most often.

Type I Collagen

The most common type in the body. It is found mostly in:

• Skin
• Bones
• Tendons
• Ligaments

This is thetype most commonly found in marine collagen products.


Type III Collagen

Often found alongside Type I in marine and bovine based products.

In your body it is found in:

• Connective tissue
• Blood vessels
• Skin

Most bovine based products naturally contains Type I and Type III collagen.

Type II Collagen

This is the interesting one.

Type II is found mainly in cartilage (the bit where bones meet). Cartilage is the smooth cushioning material that helps joints move freely.

This is why Type II products are usually aimed at joint health rather than beauty.

One example is UC-II® collagen, found in products such as Macánta Joint Complex UC-II.

So if someone asks:

"What's the best collagen for my knees?" The answer may not be marine collagen at all. It may be a Type II product specifically designed for cartilage.


The "My Knees Aren't What They Used To Be" Person

This is one of the biggest reasons people start looking at collagen.

They aren't always looking for beauty benefits.

They're looking for comfort and movement (which brings it own form of beauty)

Cartilage naturally experiences wear and tear throughout life.

This is why many people interested in joints buy:

  1. Bovine 
  2. Bone broth
  3. Type II products

Many joint formulas also combine collagen with turmeric, boswellia or other ingredients traditionally used for joints.

The Active Walker

You don't need to be a marathon runner to appreciate healthy joints.

  • Many people simply want to stay active.
  • They want to keep walking every morning.
  • They want to keep hiking on holidays (The camino here we go!).
  • They want to stay independent.
  • They want to walk the dog.

This is often where collagen becomes part of a long-term healthy ageing plan rather than a short-term fix.


The Golfer, Gardener And DIY Enthusiast

Nobody talks about this group enough.

These are often the people who notice stiffness first.

  • Hours spent gardening.
  • Golf swings.
  • Painting fences
  • Carrying bags of compost.
  • Weekend DIY projects.

These activities place constant demands on joints, tendons and connective tissue.

Many customers begin exploring collagen because they want to keep doing the hobbies they enjoy.

The Gym-Goer

Most gym users focus on muscles.

  • Collagen reminds us that muscles aren't the whole story.
  • Tendons.
  • Ligaments.
  • Connective tissue.
  • Cartilage.

These structures do a huge amount of work every time you train.

Many active people choose collagen as part of their wider recovery routine alongside adequate protein intake and resistance training.


The "I Want To Stay Strong As I Get Older" Person

This is one of the most important groups.

Healthy ageing isn't about avoiding birthdays.

It's about maintaining strength, mobility and independence.

People often focus on muscle when discussing ageing.

But bones, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue are equally important.

This is one reason collagen remains popular among active adults over 50.

The Bone Strength Person

Here's something many people don't realise.

Bone isn't just calcium.

Bone contains a collagen framework.

Think of collagen as the scaffolding and minerals such as calcium as the bricks.

Without the this framework, bone would not have the same structure and flexibility.

This is why thsi protein is often included in bone-focused formulas alongside:

  1. Calcium
  2. Vitamin D
  3. Vitamin K2
  4. Magnesium

Some specialist formulas combine these nutrients specifically for bone health.


The Bone Broth Person

Bone broth has become increasingly popular over the last decade.

Not because it's trendy.

Because it has been used traditionally for generations.

Bone broth naturally contains collagen proteins and amino acids such as glycine and proline.

Many people choose bone broth because they prefer a food-first approach rather than capsules or tablets.

The Gut Health Person

This is another area where bone broth has become popular.

Many people interested in gut health are also interested in bone broth and collagen-rich foods.

Why?

Because this protein contains amino acids such as glycine and glutamine, which are found throughout the digestive tract.

This is one reason bone broth has become a favourite among people trying to improve their overall nutrition.

It's important to keep expectations realistic.

Collagen is not a magic gut solution.

But many people enjoy adding it as part of a wider approach that includes better food choices and fibre intake.


The Person Who Is Constantly Run Down

This is where some of the newer products become interesting.

Rather than offering collagen alone, they combine it with other ingredients.

Examples include:

  • Functional mushrooms
  • Adaptogenic herbs
  • Antioxidants
  • Botanical extracts

These products appeal to customers looking for something broader than collagen by itself.

The Joint Plus Turmeric Person

Some customers don't want a plain collagen.

They want a formula that tackles several areas at once.

This is why turmeric combinations have become popular.

Turmeric contains curcuminoids, which are widely used in joint-focused supplements.

When combined with collagen, customers get a product aimed at both connective tissue and joint comfort.


The High-Dose Person

Every supplement category has enthusiasts. Collagen is no different.

These customers compare:

  • 5g
  • 10g
  • 15g
  • 20g

Cost per serving, Cost per gram. Protein source, Hydrolysed versus non-hydrolysed.......

For them, powders often offer the best value because they can easily increase daily intake. 

The "I Need A Nutritional Kick Up The Arse" Person

Honestly, this may be one of the most common customers.

They know they're not eating enough protein.

  • Breakfast is toast (better than the teenage years when it was a cough and a look around)
  • Lunch is whatever is available.
  • Dinner happens late.

They're not looking for perfection.

They're looking for a better starting point.

  • A collagen smoothie.
  • A protein-rich breakfast bowl.
  • A "healthy" coffee.
  • A daily bone broth.

One healthier habit often leads to another.


So Which Collagen Should You Choose?

If your goal is skin, hair and nails:
Marine type is often the starting point.

If you want an all-round collagen:
Bovine is usually the most versatile option.

If your focus is cartilage and joints:
A Type II product such as UC-II may be worth considering.

If you like a food-first approach:
Bone brot is often popular.

If you want extra ingredients:
Look at formulas containing turmeric, mushrooms, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants or bone-health nutrients.


Last word from the Supplement Counter:

The best collagen isn't always the most expensive.

It isn't always the highest dose.

And it isn't always the one with the fanciest marketing.

The best collagen is the one that matches your what you want to acheive:

  • Skin.
  • Joints.
  • Bones.
  • Recovery.
  • Healthy ageing.
  • Gut health.

Start there and you'll usually make a much better choice.

Ann O’Flynn B.Pharm, MA, BSc, MPSI


Ann is the owner of dPharmacy and has a particular interest in Health foods and supplements. Ann is a Tutor pharmacist and has gained numerous qualifications in alternative therapies - which she uses alongside her extensive clinical training. If you have any queries on medicines or health foods please reach out to us by email, text or phone.


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