What's the Difference Between Marine Collagen vs. Bovine Collagen?

May 20, 2025

Collagen is the buzzword in the wellness world (for a good reason!). It’s the most abundant protein in your body, playing a key role in everything from skin elasticity to joint health. But if you’ve started looking into collagen supplements, you might have noticed there are different types - namely, marine and bovine collagen. So what’s the difference, and how do you decide which is best for your goals? Let’s break it down!

What is Collagen & Why Should You Supplement With It?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, and its a vital building block that keeps your skin firm, joints flexible, bones strong and even supports your gut lining. Think of it like the glue holding everything together, providing structure and strength to connective tissues throughout your body. However, as we age - starting in our mid-20s, and accelerating through perimenopause and menopause - our natural collagen production declines. This leads to signs like wrinkles, joint stiffness, weaker bones and less resilient skin. Since diet alone often isn’t enough to replace this loss, supplementing with collagen has become a popular way to help support overall health, skin vitality and mobility from the inside out.

What is Marine Collagen?

Marine collagen is sourced from fish - typically, the skin and scales of wild caught fish. It’s mostly Type I collagen, which is the primary collagen found in your skin, hair and nails. Marine collagen is praised for its:

Quicker absorption thanks to smaller peptide size, meaning your body can use it faster
Beauty benefits like improved skin elasticity (aka less visible wrinkles), glowy skin, stronger hair and healthier nails
Being a more sustainable option, often favoured by pescatarians

If you’re after a visible ✨ glow up ✨ and need results ASAP, marine collagen might be your new go-to!

What is Bovine Collagen?

Bovine collagen is derived from cows - usually grass-fed for higher quality. It contains both Type I and Type III collagen, which support not just your skin but also joints, bones, and your gut. Key benefits include:

A holistic wellness solution that supports overall body health
Great for joint mobility and active recovery, making it popular with those who want to stay moving
Rich in amino acids that help rebuild and maintain connective tissue
An option for those with shellfish allergies or who aren’t pescatarian
If you want something that’s about long term wellness (beyond just beauty benefits), bovine collagen is a solid pick!

What Are the Similarities?

Both types come with great perks:

They're completely tasteless, and easy to mix into your favourite drinks - think your morning matcha, protein smoothie, or Moon Mylk before bed!
High in protein, gluten free, dairy free and free from refined sugars
Made with all natural ingredients and no added nasties
Gut friendly formulas that fit into clean, health conscious lifestyles

So, Which One Should You Choose?

It all comes down to your personal goals and lifestyle, but simply put:

Choose marine collagen if you want faster, visible beauty results (hi luscious hair, long nails and glowing skin!). It's also more suitable if you're pescatarian, or would prefer a more sustainable option.
Choose bovine collagen if you want a more well-rounded, holistic wellness boost that supports your skin, joints, bones and gut health. This is also suitable for you if you have no dietary requirements, or if you have a shellfish allergy.

Or, you could try both and see which one works better for you!

Collagen isn’t one-size-fits-all, and knowing the difference helps you make a smarter choice for your health & wellness routine. Whichever you pick, adding collagen to your day can be a great step toward feeling and looking your best!