Can you mix two different collagen powders together? Your complete guide

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, with over 90% of it being Type I. Many people wonder, can you mix two different collagen powders together, and is it a safe and effective way to maximize benefits for skin, joints, and gut health?

Quick Summary

Combining different collagen supplements is generally safe and often beneficial for more comprehensive results. Learn about optimal combinations for targeted effects, important absorption considerations, and best practices for mixing powders seamlessly.

Key Points

Mixing is Safe and Beneficial: Combining different collagen powders, such as marine and bovine, is safe and often recommended for a broader spectrum of benefits.
Customize Your Support: Mixing allows you to create a custom blend that targets specific health goals for skin, hair, nails, and joints simultaneously.
Type II Timing: For optimal absorption, it is best to take Type II collagen separately from Types I and III, often by staggering the intake time.
Prevent Clumping: Mix powder into warm liquid first or use a blender/frother to achieve a smooth, clump-free consistency.
Consistency Over Timing: Consistent daily intake is more crucial for seeing results than taking collagen at a specific time of day.
Monitor for Side Effects: While rare, mild digestive issues can occur. Adhere to dosage guidelines and consult a doctor if issues persist.
Check Sources: Ensure the quality of your powders by checking the source, especially if you have allergies (e.g., fish in marine collagen).

The Science Behind Mixing Collagen Types

To understand why mixing different collagen powders can be beneficial, it helps to know that the body contains at least 28 different types of collagen, each with a unique function. Supplement companies typically focus on the most prevalent types: I, II, and III. By combining powders derived from different sources, you can ensure a broader spectrum of these collagen types to support multiple areas of the body simultaneously.

The Roles of Different Collagen Types

Type I: The most abundant type, found in skin, bones, ligaments, and tendons. It is crucial for skin elasticity and bone strength.
Type II: Primarily located in cartilage, making it essential for joint health and function.
Type III: Often found alongside Type I in the skin, blood vessels, and organs, contributing to skin elasticity and organ structure.

Combining for Comprehensive Benefits

Taking different collagen types together allows you to target multiple health goals with a single regimen. For example, a combination of bovine and marine collagen is a popular choice for comprehensive support. Bovine collagen is rich in Type I and III, which are excellent for skin firmness and gut health, while marine collagen primarily offers highly bioavailable Type I, which is renowned for its skin-boosting properties.

Benefits of Mixing Collagen Powders

Broader Spectrum Support: Cover multiple areas of the body, such as skin, hair, nails, and joints, instead of just focusing on one area.
Diverse Amino Acid Profile: Combining sources like bovine, marine, and chicken collagen provides a wider range of amino acids, which are the building blocks the body uses for various functions.
Targeted Effects: You can create a custom blend to address your specific needs. For instance, an athlete might combine Type I for ligaments and Type II for cartilage.

Timing and Absorption: A Closer Look

One common concern is whether different collagen types compete for absorption. According to experts, there is no evidence to suggest that types I and III interfere with each other and can be taken simultaneously. However, some research indicates that Type II collagen may be more effective when taken on its own for optimal absorption, especially for targeted joint support. Therefore, many people who mix collagen will combine Types I and III together and take their Type II supplement at a different time of day.

Consistent daily intake is considered more important than the specific time of day you take your supplements. Whether you prefer to take it in the morning with your coffee or in the evening, establishing a regular routine is key to seeing results.

A Guide to Mixing Different Collagen Powders


Collagen Type	Primary Sources	Key Benefits
Type I	Bovine, Marine	Skin elasticity, bone strength, hair, nails, tendons
Type II	Chicken Cartilage	Joint and cartilage health
Type III	Bovine	Skin firmness, gut health, organs, blood vessels
Type V	Eggshell Membrane, Bovine	Hair health, cell surfaces

Mixing Best Practices

Prevent Clumps: To avoid clumping, especially with cold liquids, start by mixing the powder with a small amount of lukewarm water or directly into a hot liquid like coffee or tea.
Use the Right Tools: For a smooth result, use a blender, handheld frother, or shaker bottle. A simple whisk can also work effectively for hot liquids.
Combine with Flavors: If you are sensitive to the taste of unflavored powders, mix them into strongly flavored drinks or smoothies to mask any off-tastes.
Maintain Hydration: Drinking plenty of water supports the digestion and absorption process of collagen peptides.

Potential Considerations and Risks

While mixing collagen powders is generally safe, there are some factors to consider. Mild digestive issues, such as bloating or an upset stomach, are possible, especially for new users. It is important to adhere to the recommended dosages on the packaging and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns or allergies, particularly with marine collagen (fish). Taking excessive amounts can potentially lead to other side effects. Additionally, check the sourcing of each powder to ensure quality and prevent allergen contamination. For more information on the specific roles of different collagen types, you can consult this article on the subject: What Is Collagen, and What Does It Do?.

Conclusion: A Synergistic Approach

Yes, you can mix two different collagen powders together to create a synergistic effect that addresses multiple health goals, such as improving skin elasticity and supporting joint function. By combining different sources like bovine (Types I and III) and marine (Type I), you can achieve broader benefits for your body. The key is to be mindful of absorption considerations for Type II collagen, stick to recommended dosages, and use proper mixing techniques. Ultimately, mixing collagen powders is a safe and effective way to customize your supplement regimen for more comprehensive wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is generally considered safe to mix two different collagen powders. This practice is common and can provide a broader range of benefits from different collagen types, such as combining marine and bovine sources.

The primary benefit is receiving a more comprehensive range of collagen types (e.g., I, II, and III), which can support multiple areas like skin, joints, bones, and gut health simultaneously. It provides a more diverse amino acid profile than a single-source product.

For optimal absorption and effectiveness, some experts recommend taking Type II collagen separately from Types I and III. You could take Type II in the morning and the others in the evening.

There is no strong evidence to suggest that Types I and III compete for absorption and they can be mixed freely. The body is highly efficient at utilizing available nutrients. However, separating Type II intake is a common recommendation for targeted joint benefits.

To prevent clumping, use a blender or a handheld frother for a smooth result. When adding to cold liquids, it is helpful to first dissolve the powder in a small amount of warm water. For hot beverages, stir thoroughly until fully dissolved.

Yes, combining marine and bovine collagen is safe and widely done. This is a popular combination for comprehensive support, as marine collagen is great for skin, while bovine also benefits joints and gut health.

Collagen supplements are generally safe, but mild side effects like digestive discomfort can occur, especially if you are new to them. Always check the source for potential allergens (like fish) and do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.