Experts Reveal the 7 Collagen Supplements Women Should Take Every Day

According to Helen Tieu, registered dietitian and founder of Diet Redefined, “There are three types of collagen, each with its own different functions, depending on what type of support you’re looking for.” She breaks down the benefits of each below:

Type I Collagen: helps with skin elasticity and hydration; hair and nail strength, and contributes to bone strength. Typical sources include bovine or marine (fish) collagen.

Type II Collagen: helps with joint comfort, cartilage health, and may reduce joint pain in cases of osteoarthritis. Its typical source is chicken sternum cartilage (undenatured Type II).

Type III Collagen: helps maintain skin structure and elasticity, as well as support connective tissue. The typical source is bovine collagen, where it’s often combined with Type I.

In short, “Type I and III are recommended for skin, hair, and nails, while type II is recommended for joint support,” Tieu says. “Make sure to check the label for the type of collagen the supplement contains.”