Collagen Types Explained: Type I, II, III, V & X — What Each Is and Where It Comes From (2026 Guide)
What are collagen types I, II, III, V and X? Where each is found in the body, which sources supplements use, and how to read a multi-collagen label.
Multi-collagen supplements often list "Types I, II, III, V & X" — but rarely explain what those numbers mean. This guide covers what each collagen type is, where it is found in the body, which sources supplements use, and how to read a collagen label.
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is a structural protein found in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and connective tissue. Scientists have identified around 28 types of collagen; a handful make up most of the collagen in the body. The body makes its own collagen, and needs vitamin C to do so.
The Main Collagen Types
| Type | Where it is found in the body | Common supplement sources |
|---|---|---|
| Type I | The most abundant type — skin, bone, tendons, ligaments | Bovine (cow) hide, marine (fish skin and scales) |
| Type II | Cartilage | Chicken sternum cartilage |
| Type III | Skin, blood vessels and organs — often alongside Type I | Bovine hide |
| Type V | Found with Type I in tissues such as skin, hair and the placenta | Eggshell membrane, bovine |
| Type X | A specialised type in cartilage and growth plates | Eggshell membrane, chicken cartilage |
Multi-collagen products typically combine several of these sources — for example bovine, marine, chicken and eggshell membrane — to list multiple types on one label.
Collagen Peptides vs Hydrolysed Collagen vs Gelatin
- Hydrolysed collagen and collagen peptides are essentially the same thing: collagen broken down into smaller protein fragments. This is the form used in most capsules and powders, and it dissolves in water.
- Gelatin is partially broken-down collagen that gels when cooled — used in cooking and in some capsule shells.
- Undenatured Type II collagen is a different, minimally processed form usually sold in much smaller doses (milligrams rather than grams).
Does the Number of Types Matter?
A longer list of types is not, by itself, a measure of quality or effect. The label numbers tell you which sources were used. When comparing products, the total amount of collagen per serving and the serving size are often more useful than the number of types.
Allergens and Dietary Suitability
- Marine collagen is from fish — not suitable for fish allergies
- Eggshell membrane is egg-derived — check if you have an egg allergy
- Bovine and chicken sources are animal-derived
- Collagen is not vegetarian or vegan. "Vegan collagen" products usually contain nutrients rather than collagen itself.
How to Read a Multi-Collagen Label
- Total collagen per serving — in mg or g
- Serving size — capsules often need 3 or more per serving
- Sources — bovine, marine, chicken, eggshell membrane
- Added ingredients — vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, biotin
- Allergen statements — fish, egg
- Cost per serving — divide price by servings
Format Compared: Capsules, Powder and Patches
Powders usually provide larger amounts per serving (often several grams). Capsules are convenient and tasteless but hold less per capsule, so servings are often several capsules. Patches are a newer format applied to the skin; check the label for what each patch contains.
Multi-Collagen at Health & Heal
- Multi-Collagen Complex Capsules — Types I, II, III, V & X with Vitamin C & Hyaluronic Acid — 1,600mg hydrolysed collagen per serving, 60 capsules.
- Acential Labs Multi Collagen Peptides — Types I, II, III, V & X with Biotin, 240 Capsules — 3 capsules daily, an 80-day supply.
- Collagen Peptide Patches with Vitamin C — 30 Patches
Related reading: Collagen in Australia: Multi-Type vs Single-Source & How to Choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5 types of collagen in multi-collagen supplements?
Usually Types I, II, III, V and X, sourced from a mix of bovine, marine, chicken and eggshell membrane.
Which collagen type is most common in the body?
Type I is the most abundant, found in skin, bone, tendons and ligaments.
Is marine collagen Type I?
Marine collagen is mainly Type I.
Is collagen vegan?
No. Collagen is an animal protein. Products labelled "vegan collagen" typically contain other nutrients rather than collagen.
This article is general educational information only and is not medical advice. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.