Can You Take All Collagen Types Together?

November 21, 2025 •

3 min read

While our bodies naturally contain 28 types of collagen, supplements most often focus on types I, II, and III. This fact leads many to question: can you take all collagen types together for maximum benefit, or is a more strategic approach necessary?.

Quick Summary

Taking multiple collagen types together is generally safe, but strategic timing is crucial for optimal absorption, especially for specific joint-related types. Combining types can offer broader benefits, addressing skin, joint, and bone health effectively.

Key Points

Strategic Timing is Best: While generally safe, taking different collagen types at separate times (Type I/III together, Type II separately) can optimize absorption and effectiveness.
Types I and III are Compatible: These two types work synergistically for skin, hair, and bone health and can be safely combined.
Isolate Type II for Joints: Undenatured or matrix Type II collagen is best taken on its own to allow its unique immune-based mechanism for joint support to function effectively.
Quality Trumps Variety: A high-quality, pure hydrolyzed collagen is more effective than a less-pure supplement containing more types of inferior quality.
Maximize Absorption: Combining collagen with adequate hydration and Vitamin C intake supports your body's ability to utilize the protein effectively.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, providing structure and support to our skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage. As we age, our natural collagen production declines, which can lead to signs of aging and joint discomfort. Collagen supplements have become a popular way to counteract this, but with multiple types available, understanding how they interact is key to a successful regimen.

The primary types of collagen and their functions

Before deciding on a combination strategy, it's important to know the roles of the most common collagen types found in supplements:

Type I Collagen: The most prevalent type, found in skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments, crucial for skin elasticity and bone strength.
Type II Collagen: Found in cartilage, essential for joint cushioning and mobility. Undenatured forms work through an immune response mechanism.
Type III Collagen: Works with Type I in skin, blood vessels, and the gut lining, important for skin elasticity and gut health.

The science of combining collagen

For hydrolyzed collagen peptides (most common supplement form), the body breaks them down into amino acids, which are used where needed. Combining Types I and III is safe and beneficial as they work together naturally. Marine (mostly Type I) and bovine (Types I and III) can be combined for comprehensive benefits. However, specialized Type II collagen, like undenatured forms, interacts with the immune system in the gut and should ideally be taken separately to avoid interference from other collagen types.

The best approach for maximum benefits

Splitting your daily collagen intake can maximize benefits.

A strategic collagen routine could look like this:

Morning: Take a hydrolyzed blend of Types I and III to support skin, hair, and nails.
Evening: Take a specific undenatured Type II supplement for targeted joint support.

Quality over quantity

Focusing on high-quality, hydrolyzed collagen is more important than taking many types from lower-quality sources. High-quality hydrolyzed collagen is better absorbed.

Optimizing your collagen routine

Support collagen intake with a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C, zinc, and copper. Proper hydration also aids absorption and benefits for skin and joints.


Collagen Type	Primary Function	Ideal Pairing	Optimal Timing
Type I	Skin, bones, tendons, ligaments	Type III	Anytime
Type II	Joint and cartilage health	Separate from Type I and III	Evening (or other separate time)
Type III	Skin, blood vessels, gut health	Type I	Anytime

Conclusion: Can you take all collagen types together?

While you can take all collagen types together, a strategic approach separating Type II from Types I and III is best for optimal absorption and results. Prioritizing high-quality, hydrolyzed supplements will also deliver better results for overall wellness. For more information on the specific science of collagen supplementation, consult a resource like this study on hydrolyzed collagen and its impact on skin aging.

Practical tips for your supplement regimen

Here are some final tips to help you get started with a multi-collagen routine:

Read the Label: Choose high-quality, hydrolyzed products from trusted sources.
Consider Timing: Take undenatured Type II at a different time than Type I/III powder if using for joints.
Stay Consistent: Daily intake is key to seeing results.
Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water to support utilization.
Add Vitamin C: Ensure adequate intake to support synthesis.
Listen to Your Body: Adjust as needed based on your response.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is generally safe to mix different types of collagen. However, for optimal absorption and effectiveness, particularly for joint health, it is often recommended to take certain types separately.

Type II collagen, especially in its undenatured form, works through a different mechanism than hydrolyzed Types I and III. Taking it separately ensures its specific joint-repairing immune response is not interfered with by other collagen peptides.

Results can vary based on individual factors and consistency, but many people report noticing improvements in skin and joint health within a few weeks to a couple of months of consistent daily use.

Yes, combining different collagen types can offer a wider range of benefits. For example, combining marine (Type I) with bovine (Type I & III) provides comprehensive support for skin, gut, and joints.

Collagen supplements are generally safe. Some people may experience mild digestive discomfort, especially when starting. It's always best to consult a healthcare professional with concerns.

A high-quality multi-collagen product containing only Types I and III is a great option. However, for targeted joint support, buying a separate undenatured Type II supplement is often recommended to maximize its benefits.

Yes, taking marine (primarily Type I) and bovine (Types I and III) collagen together is a common and effective strategy for comprehensive benefits for your skin, hair, gut, and joints.