By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Collagen supplements are widely promoted for healthier skin, hair, nails and joints—but liquid collagen is not proven to work better than pills.
After collagen is swallowed, digestion breaks it into peptides and amino acids. The body then distributes those building blocks according to its needs; consumers cannot direct them exclusively to their skin or joints. What matters most is the amount, quality and type of collagen—not whether it comes in liquid or pill form.
Scientists have identified 28 types of collagen, but five are considered the most common:
Type I: Represents approximately 90% of the body’s collagen and supports skin, bones, tendons and ligaments.
Type II: Primarily found in elastic cartilage that cushions and supports joints.
Type III: Provides structure to muscles, arteries and internal organs. It is frequently combined with Type I in supplements.
Type IV: Forms thin supporting layers within the skin and around certain tissues and organs.
Type V: Occurs in the eyes’ corneas, hair, some skin layers and placental tissue.
Bovine collagen commonly supplies Types I and III, while marine collagen is generally rich in Type I. Chicken-derived products often provide Type II. However, the collagen source may matter for people with fish, shellfish or other food allergies.
Liquid supplements may provide several grams in one serving, while achieving the same amount with pills could require multiple capsules. Consumers should look for hydrolyzed collagen peptides, compare grams per serving and select independently tested products.
Research suggests collagen peptides may modestly improve skin hydration, elasticity and certain joint symptoms, but evidence remains limited. The Food and Drug Administration does not approve supplements for safety or effectiveness before they are marketed. Consult a healthcare professional before use, particularly if pregnant, taking medication or managing kidney disease.