Collagen is a very popular supplement for skin and joint health, but did you know there are various types of collagen? Indeed, of the subtypes of collagen, there are a few main types, including collagen types 1 and 3. 

Type I collagen is the type found in over 90% of the body. It is found in skin, tendons, vascular walls, organs, bone, and scar tissue. Type I collagen is the main organic component of bones. Type III collagen is found in the artery walls, skin and intestines. It is commonly found alongside type I in the human body as well, and both are found in higher concentrations during scar formation. These types of collagen combined can also be used to provide the building blocks to help repair damaged ligaments and tendons.

Key Health Benefits of Collagen Type 1 and 3 

Arthritis and Joint Health

Although Type II collagen is the type used for the initial treatment of arthritis for its anti-inflammatory and cartilage repair abilities, adding in types I and III after a few months of initial treatment, can further help to boost results. This may be due to the support of healthy bone regeneration, or due to stronger joint support from increased structural integrity of tendons and ligaments.

Bone Health

Type I collagen is the main organic (non-mineral) component of our bones. It is one of the basic protein building blocks that serve to give bone its structure. Thus, supplementation can help to support bone health and improve bone strength. 

Sports Injury

Type I and III collagens are the main components of ligaments and tendons in our bodies. Because of this, supplementation with these nutrients can help to speed recovery and repair of injuries such as sprains and strains.

Scar Tissue Healing & Skin Health

To form healthy scars during the healing process, the body requires both type I, and type III collagen. Lack of sufficient amounts of either will result in improper scar formation. Combining collagen and vitamin C can help the body to quickly heal wounds.

Different Supplement Varieties of Collagen Type 1 and 3

Both type I and III collagens can be found as encapsulated powder or liquid. They are usually combined with other joint-repairing nutrients and vitamins, particularly type II collagen. It is also often added to anti-aging skin care products. Collagen types I and III are also available and should be used after good results are found with type II to further rebuild damaged joints or tissue.