Marine collagen is a type of collagen sourced from fish, most commonly from the skin, scales, fins, and bones that would otherwise go unused during seafood processing. Once extracted, the collagen is broken down into smaller pieces called collagen peptides, making it easier for the body to digest and absorb. This hydrolyzed form dissolves easily in liquids, which is why marine collagen is commonly found in powders and other nutraceutical formats.

Because it’s derived from fish, marine collagen has become a popular option for women who prefer to avoid bovine or porcine collagen due to dietary, cultural, or personal preferences.

The main reason marine collagen has gained so much attention is its composition. It primarily contains Type I collagen, the most abundant collagen in the human body and the type most closely associated with skin, nails, and hair health. In some cases, marine collagen sourced from fish cartilage may also provide Type II collagen, which is responsible for joints’ tensile strength and flexibility. [1]

Apart from its use in beauty and wellness, marine collagen benefits are also valued in medical and research settings for its biocompatibility, making it a promising material for wound healing and tissue regeneration applications.[2]

Bovine collagen is a type of collagen sourced from family Bovinae, a group of mammals that includes cows, bison, yak, and water buffalo, though most bovine collagen supplements are derived from domestic cows. [3] It is typically obtained from the hide, bones, and connective tissues and then processed into smaller collagen peptides that are easier for the body to absorb. 

Bovine collagen peptides are rich in Type I and Type III collagens, two of the most abundant collagen types in the body. Because these collagen types play an important role in maintaining the skin’s structure, bovine collagen is also often associated with supporting skin elasticity, hydration, and a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance. 

The benefits of bovine collagen extend beyond skin health. Research suggests that it may also help support joint health and play a role in managing osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage. In one 13-week clinical study involving 30 adults with knee osteoarthritis, participants who took 5 grams of bovine collagen peptides twice daily reported improvements in their symptoms over the course of the study. [4] 

Beyond its potential role in joint health, bovine collagen may also support healthy bones. Collagen is a key component of the bone matrix, helping provide the structure that keeps bones strong and resilient. This has led researchers to explore whether collagen supplementation could help slow age-related bone loss. In one 12-week animal study, rats given a supplement containing bovine collagen and calcium citrate experienced less bone loss than those that did not receive the supplement. [5] While these early findings are encouraging, more research in humans is needed to better understand the relationship between bovine collagen and bone health.