Marine vs. Bovine Collagen: Which Is Better for Skin Health?
If you're on a skincare journey that goes beyond serums and SPF, chances are you've thought about collagen.
And with so many options—marine, bovine, multi-source—it’s easy to get lost. One of the biggest questions I see (and used to ask myself too): Is marine or bovine collagen better for skin?
The short answer? Both can be beneficial, but if skin health is your main goal—think glow, firmness, fine lines—marine collagen may have the upper hand. Let’s dive into the details.
First, What Exactly Is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, acting as the scaffolding for skin, joints, hair, and nails. As we age (hello, mid-20s!), our collagen production naturally declines, leading to visible signs like sagging, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
That’s where collagen supplements come in.
But not all collagen is created equal.
What is Bovine Collagen?
Bovine collagen is sourced from cows and typically contains Type I and Type III collagen.
Type I is found in skin, tendons, bones, and ligaments—important for elasticity and structure.
Type III supports skin and organ integrity and is often found alongside Type I.
Bovine collagen is a solid, cost-effective option and is widely used in powders and capsules. It’s a popular pick for those looking to support both skin and joint health.
What Is Marine Collagen?
Marine collagen is derived from fish skin and scales and is almost exclusively Type I collagen—the type most abundant in our skin.
Here’s what makes marine collagen special:
When hydrolyzed into peptides, it can have a low molecular weight, which contributes to efficient absorption.
It’s rich in amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, all key for skin regeneration.
It often feels lighter on the gut (especially if you’ve experienced bloating or heaviness with bovine powders).
So… Which Collagen Is Better for Skin?
If your main goal is to improve skin texture, boost elasticity, and reduce fine lines, marine collagen is often favored due to its concentrated Type I collagen content and potentially efficient absorption profile when hydrolyzed.
Why?
Higher bioavailability: Marine peptides are smaller and may be absorbed more effectively.
Rich in Type I collagen: The type our skin needs most.
More targeted support: While bovine supports broader areas (like joints and ligaments) due to its mix of Type I and III, marine offers focused support on skin repair and renewal due to its primary Type I composition.
That said, it’s not that one is “bad” and the other is “superior.” It’s about what you’re looking to achieve. Some people even rotate between the two or opt for blends to get broader benefits.
A Note on Formulations: What Else Matters?
Sometimes, it’s not just about the collagen source—it’s about what it’s paired with.
For example, Luna Collagen by Doki combines hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides (Type I & II) with hyaluronic acid (for hydration), Vitamin C from whole fruits (to support collagen synthesis), and HMO-GOS prebiotics (for gut-skin connection). It’s a smart pick if you want a skin-first approach that doesn’t forget about digestion.
Other marine-based options include:
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen – Unflavored and versatile, good for daily mixing.
The Beauty Chef Collagen Inner Beauty Boost – A liquid option with added antioxidants.
Procaps Marine Collagen Peptides – Known for clean sourcing and simplicity.
Final Thoughts: Choose What Works for Your Skin Goals
Both bovine and marine collagen have skin-supporting properties. But if you want the most targeted approach for visible skin benefits, marine collagen is likely your best bet.
Of course, consistency is key. Whichever type you choose, give it at least 6–8 weeks to see results, and support it with good sleep, balanced nutrition, and SPF (because collagen + sun damage = no thanks).