Collagen is a structural protein that has a very important role in the connective tissues. That includes the skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage. There are 28 known different types of collagen, but the most common and studied types are Type I, Type II, Type III, Type IV, and Type V.

Each type has unique functions, that makes them relevant for different health issues.

In the human body this type of collagen takes about 90% of the body’s total collagen.
It is made of densely packed fibers, providing remarkable tensile strength.
Type 1 collagen is found in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, corneas, and interstitial tissues.
Type 1 collagen is vital for skin elasticity and firmness. A reduction in Type 1 collagen with age contributes to wrinkles and sagging skin.
It is the primary collagen in bones, so it’s important for bone strength and density. Reduced levels can lead to osteoporosis.
Type 1 collagen is involved in the wound healing process due to its role in forming scar tissue.

Type 2 collagen is composed of loosely packed fibers, which are less dense than Type 1.
It is found mainly in cartilage, including articular cartilage (the cartilage that covers the ends of bones in joints) and the vitreous humor of the eye.
Type 2 collagen is essential for maintaining cartilage health. It’s important in managing osteoarthritis and other joint-related conditions, and the degradation of Type 2 collagen is a significant factor in these diseases.
Studies suggest that Type 2 collagen can help modulate the immune response in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis by inducing immune tolerance to collagen, potentially reducing inflammation.

Type 3 collagen is often found alongside Type 1 collagen.
It is composed of reticular fibers, which form a fine meshwork.
Collagen type 3 is resent in skin, blood vessels, intestines, and the uterine wall.
Type 3 collagen is important for the elasticity and structure of blood vessels. Deficiency or mutation in Type 3 collagen can lead to conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (particularly the vascular type), characterised by fragile blood vessels that are prone to tear.
It also plays a role in the structural integrity of internal organs, like the intestines and the uterus, and is important in tissue repair and healing.

Collagen type 4 forms a sheet-like network, rather than fibrils, providing support for cells and tissues.
This collagen type is found in the basement membranes, which are thin, sheet-like structures underlying epithelial and endothelial cells (e.g., in the skin, kidneys, and blood vessels).
Type 4 collagen is a key component of the glomerular basement membrane in the kidneys, which is important for filtering blood. Mutation or damage to Type 4 collagen can result in conditions like Alport syndrome, leading to kidney failure.
It supports the epidermis and is important for the barrier function of the skin.

Type 5 collagen forms fibrils that are often thinner and less organised than those of Type 1 collagen.
You can find it in the skin, cornea, placenta, and in the walls of blood vessels.
Mutations in Type 5 collagen can lead to Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a genetic disorder characterised by hypermobility, hyperextensible skin, and fragile tissues.
Type 5 collagen is necessary for corneal transparency and overall eye health. Abnormalities can affect vision.

 

Now when you understand the specific roles and benefits of each collagen type, you can choose the appropriate supplements based on what would you like to support. Your skin, hair or joints 🙂

Type I Collagen: Best for skin health, bone density, and wound healing.
Type II Collagen: Essential for joint health and cartilage integrity, and beneficial in managing osteoarthritis.
Type III Collagen: Important for vascular and internal organ health, as well as in tissue repair.
Type IV Collagen: Important for the integrity of basement membranes, affecting kidney function and skin barrier properties.
Type V Collagen: Plays a role in skin structure, corneal health, and can be implicated in certain genetic disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

Collagen type 1 and 3 are responsible for your skin looking young and wrinkle free. Production of collagen can be boosted by treatments like microneedling, RF needling, and skin boosters or mesotherapy. If you are interested to learn about what treatments may benefit your skin, just drop us an email or book a consultation at Beauty Bar in Ware Hertfordshire.