Fish Collagen vs. Other Types: Why Skin Glow Uses a Superior Formula

Bovine collagen, for example, has been a popular choice for years, thanks to its high Type I and III collagen content, which is great for skin and joints. Plant-based collagen, though technically not collagen but rather collagen-boosting nutrients, is often marketed as a vegan-friendly option. And then there’s eggshell collagen—a lesser-known but incredibly powerful alternative.

What makes eggshell collagen so special? Unlike fish collagen, which primarily offers Type I collagen, eggshell collagen delivers a more diverse amino acid profile, making it a superior choice for overall skin health. It also comes with the added benefit of being sustainable and more bioavailable, meaning your body absorbs it more effectively.

In this article, we’ll compare fish collagen with other popular types, breaking down the pros and cons of each, and show you which one will stands out as the ultimate choice for your skin. Let’s get started!

Fish collagen, derived from the skin, scales, or bones of fish, has become a popular choice in the beauty and wellness industry. It's primarily rich in Type I collagen, which is the most abundant collagen type in our bodies and plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of the skin. 

In the skincare world, fish collagen is often associated with improving skin hydration, reducing wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin texture. It’s also used in dietary supplements to support hair and nail growth, as well as in anti-aging products that promise to restore a youthful glow.

• Fish collagen is primarily rich in Type I collagen, which is the most abundant collagen type in the human body and plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of the skin. The primary benefit of fish collagen is its ability to enhance skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to boost skin health and maintain a youthful appearance.

But while fish collagen has its advantages, it’s far from perfect. (1)

• Fish collagen is almost exclusively Type I collagen. While Type I is excellent for skin health, it lacks the diversity needed to benefit other areas of the body. For instance, Type II collagen is essential for joint and cartilage health, and Type III plays a role in maintaining skin elasticity and supporting internal organs. This limited collagen profile makes fish collagen less versatile compared to other options, such as bovine or eggshell collagen.

• Although fish collagen is marketed as highly bioavailable, the body’s ability to utilize it depends on individual digestive health and collagen needs. Its benefits might not extend beyond skin health, which limits its overall effectiveness for people seeking broader health improvements, such as joint mobility or improved muscle recovery.

• Fish collagen production often relies on byproducts of the fishing industry, which raises concerns about sustainability. Overfishing and pollution in aquatic ecosystems can impact the quality and ethical sourcing of fish collagen. (2)

• Unlike eggshell collagen, which often contains a mix of Type I and Type V collagen along with beneficial compounds like glycosaminoglycans, fish collagen is relatively limited in its nutrient content. This makes it less comprehensive for those looking for multi-faceted health and beauty benefits.

In summary, while fish collagen has earned its reputation for enhancing skin health, it has its shortcomings. Its narrow focus on Type I collagen and limitations in addressing broader health concerns make it less versatile than other collagen sources, like eggshell or even bovine collagen. 

Now, let's talk about bovine collagen

Bovine collagen is a type of collagen that comes from cows, specifically from the skin, bones, and cartilage. Collagen is a vital structural protein found in connective tissues throughout the body, providing support, elasticity, and strength. Bovine collagen primarily contains Type I and Type III collagen, both of which play essential roles in the skin, joints, and other tissues.

Bovine collagen is typically derived from the hides of cows, which are processed to extract collagen peptides (smaller fragments of collagen molecules). These peptides are more easily absorbed by the body compared to whole collagen, allowing for better utilization and greater health benefits.

• Type I Collagen: This is the most abundant collagen type in the human body, found primarily in the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones. Type I collagen provides structural integrity to the skin and helps maintain its firmness and elasticity. It also supports bone strength and muscle function.
• Type III Collagen: Found alongside Type I collagen, Type III collagen is crucial for the elasticity and strength of tissues. It is particularly abundant in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs, contributing to overall tissue repair and regeneration. Type III collagen is especially important for the strength of the skin and the regeneration of connective tissues.

• Bovine collagen is rich in Type I and Type III collagen, both of which are key players in maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. Type I supports the skin’s structure, while Type III contributes to skin’s strength and regeneration. Bovine collagen is ideal for those seeking to improve skin tone and texture, and it helps keep the skin firm and youthful. (3)

• In addition to supporting skin health, bovine collagen is particularly beneficial for joint health due to its high Type II collagen content. Type II collagen is essential for cartilage health and can help improve joint mobility and reduce discomfort. This makes bovine collagen a versatile option for those looking to support both their skin and joints. (3)

• While bovine collagen is generally hydrolyzed (broken down into smaller peptides) to improve absorption, some individuals with sensitive digestive systems may still struggle with its digestion. For people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gut dysbiosis, or leaky gut syndrome, consuming collagen may sometimes cause bloating, mild discomfort, or digestive upset. The body needs to break down the peptides in collagen into amino acids, and this process can be slower or less efficient for certain individuals. As a result, the benefits may not be as noticeable or may cause discomfort for some people. (3)

2. Allergen Risk

• Bovine collagen, being derived from cows, poses a potential risk for those with beef allergies. Although collagen is generally considered a safe protein for most people, individuals who have cow protein sensitivities or allergies might experience allergic reactions such as itching, rashes, or swelling when consuming bovine collagen. Additionally, people who are allergic to other animal-based proteins might also find bovine collagen difficult to tolerate. For such individuals, it may be safer to opt for other collagen sources like fish collagen or eggshell collagen. (3)

• Bovine collagen comes from cattle, and the cattle industry has significant ethical and environmental concerns. In terms of ethical issues, the process of raising cattle for meat and collagen production involves animal welfare concerns, such as factory farming practices and animal treatment. On the environmental side, cattle farming contributes to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption, all of which make bovine collagen a less environmentally friendly option compared to more sustainable sources like eggshell collagen. This can be a major factor for consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

• Not all bovine collagen is created equal, and the sourcing of the collagen plays a crucial role in its quality and safety. Collagen derived from conventionally raised cattle may come from cows that are exposed to hormones, antibiotics, and other chemicals. These substances can end up in the collagen, potentially affecting its purity and the safety of the product for consumers. Therefore, it’s important to choose grass-fed, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free bovine collagen to ensure you're getting a clean, high-quality product. Low-quality bovine collagen can also contain contaminants, such as heavy metals or other toxins, depending on the cattle’s diet and living conditions, making sourcing quality paramount.

• Bovine collagen may be at risk of cross-contamination with other animal-based products, especially if it is derived from parts of cows that could be mixed with collagen from other animals during the processing phase. This can pose a problem for consumers following strict dietary practices or those with religious or ethical restrictions. For example, individuals following kosher or halal diets may be concerned about the possibility of contamination with non-permissible animal products. To avoid such concerns, it is important for consumers to choose collagen that is clearly labeled as being sourced from single-animal sources and undergoes rigorous quality control to prevent cross-contamination.

In conclusion, while bovine collagen offers significant benefits for joint health and skin firming, it comes with its own set of challenges, such as digestive concerns, potential allergens, ethical and environmental issues, sourcing purity, and cross-contamination risks. Being mindful of these limitations and choosing high-quality, ethically sourced bovine collagen can help mitigate some of these concerns.

In the next sections, we’ll explore why eggshell collagen is a game-changer for both skin and overall well-being. 

Eggshell collagen is derived from the membrane of eggshells, which is rich in Type I, Type V, and Type X collagen. These types of collagen are particularly beneficial for skin, joints, and bones. The collagen is extracted through a process that involves cleaning and processing the eggshell membrane, which is packed with essential amino acids and other nutrients that support connective tissue health.

Eggshell collagen is often touted for its unique nutrient profile and is highly regarded in the health and beauty industry for its ability to support overall well-being, with a special focus on improving skin elasticity, hydration, and joint health.

• Type I Collagen: The most abundant collagen in the human body, found in skin, tendons, and bones. It helps maintain the skin's strength and elasticity, while also contributing to bone health.
• Type V Collagen: Found in small amounts alongside Type I, Type V collagen plays a role in the formation of Type I collagen fibers and is essential for maintaining healthy skin and hair.
• Type X Collagen: This type is involved in cartilage formation, making it particularly beneficial for joint health and mobility.

• Eggshell collagen is unique due to its blend of Type I, Type V, and Type X collagen. These types work together to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and strength, making eggshell collagen a powerful choice for overall skin health. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, boosts hydration, and promotes a healthy, glowing complexion. Basically it reduces ageing process.(4)

• Eggshell collagen, especially Type X collagen, is highly beneficial for joint and cartilage health. It supports the repair and regeneration of joint tissues, enhances mobility, and may alleviate discomfort in joints. Additionally, the Type I collagen in eggshell collagen helps maintain bone strength, making it a great choice for those seeking to support both joint and bone health. (5) (6)

• Eggshell collagen supports overall health due to its unique and well-rounded amino acid profile, which benefits not only skin, joints, and bones but also the body's connective tissues. Its superior bioavailability ensures that your body can absorb and use these nutrients more effectively, promoting overall well-being. This makes eggshell collagen an excellent choice for those looking to improve their general health and vitality. 

• Digestive Sensitivity While eggshell collagen is highly bioavailable, some individuals may experience digestive issues, especially those with egg allergies or sensitivities. Although the collagen is hydrolyzed to make it more easily absorbed, the presence of other compounds in the membrane may still trigger discomfort for certain individuals, such as mild bloating or stomach upset. (7)

• Allergic Reactions For individuals with egg allergies, eggshell collagen can be problematic. Even though the collagen is purified, traces of egg proteins may remain, leading to allergic reactions such as hives, rashes, or even more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing. It’s important for consumers with egg allergies to avoid eggshell collagen and choose alternative collagen sources, like bovine or fish collagen. (8)

• Limited Availability Eggshell collagen is not as widely available as bovine or fish collagen, making it harder for some consumers to access this type of collagen. Additionally, some products may be more expensive due to the more specific sourcing and processing methods required. This can make it less accessible for people on a budget.

After carefully reviewing the strengths and limitations of the different collagen types, it’s clear that eggshell collagen stands out as the best overall option for those seeking comprehensive health benefits. While both fish collagen and bovine collagen offer valuable advantages, eggshell collagen surpasses them in several key areas, making it the superior choice for consumers.

Fish collagen excels in improving skin hydration and elasticity thanks to its high content of Type I collagen, but its benefits are mostly limited to skin health. Additionally, environmental concerns around sourcing from marine life raise questions about its sustainability in the long run.

Bovine collagen, known for its balance of Type I and Type III collagen, provides both skin and joint support. However, it comes with digestive compatibility issues, allergen risks, and ethical concerns tied to cattle farming and environmental impact. The sourcing of bovine collagen also matters significantly, as lower-quality options can introduce contaminants that may affect the product’s purity.

In contrast, eggshell collagen offers a unique combination of Type I, Type V, and Type X collagen, making it ideal for skin, joints, and overall connective tissue health. Its superior bioavailability ensures that the body can absorb and utilize it effectively, delivering visible results in terms of skin elasticity, hydration, and joint mobility. Additionally, eggshell collagen stands out for its sustainability. Sourced from egg production, which has a significantly smaller environmental footprint compared to cattle farming, it’s an ethical choice for those concerned about animal welfare and the environment.

Ultimately, eggshell collagen provides a well-rounded, eco-friendly, and highly effective option for consumers who want an all-in-one solution. It offers a versatile range of benefits, superior absorption, and a more sustainable sourcing process, making it the clear winner in the quest for the best collagen supplement. Whether you’re looking to improve skin health, support joint function, or reduce your environmental impact, eggshell collagen is the ultimate choice.

That's why Goldman Laboratories has chosen eggshell collagen for its Skin Glow products. The benefits of eggshell collagen align perfectly with the company's commitment to providing effective, high-quality, and sustainable supplements. Whether you're looking to enhance your skin health, support joint function, or reduce your environmental impact, eggshell collagen is the ultimate choice.

While collagen supplements are generally safe, they may interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners, due to their potential to increase the risk of bleeding. If you're on any medication, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking collagen supplements.

Long-term collagen supplementation is considered safe for most people, but research on prolonged use is still limited. Some people may experience mild digestive issues or skin reactions over time. It's always best to monitor your body’s response and consult a healthcare provider if any adverse effects arise.

For the general population, collagen supplements are not known to cause kidney or liver problems. However, individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions should consult their doctor before starting collagen supplements to ensure they are safe.

Collagen supplements are generally safe for people with autoimmune diseases, but there is a possibility of an immune reaction. If you have an autoimmune condition, it's best to speak with your doctor before taking collagen to ensure it won't interfere with your treatment or condition.

When it comes to choosing the best collagen supplement, eggshell collagen emerges as the clear frontrunner. While fish collagen is widely celebrated for its skin-enhancing properties and bovine collagen supports both skin and joint health, eggshell collagen offers a unique combination of Type I, Type V, and Type X collagen. This blend provides comprehensive benefits for skin, joints, and overall connective tissue health. Its superior bioavailability ensures that your body can absorb and utilize it effectively, delivering visible improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and joint mobility.

Additionally, eggshell collagen stands out for its sustainability. With a lower environmental impact compared to cattle farming, it is an ethical and eco-friendly choice for those conscious of the planet’s well-being. Although it may not be as widely available as other options, its powerful benefits and sustainable sourcing make it the best all-in-one solution for consumers seeking a versatile, effective, and environmentally responsible collagen supplement.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, high-quality collagen supplement that supports your skin, joints, and overall health, eggshell collagen is undoubtedly the ultimate choice.

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8780088/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7230273/
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/bovine-collagen
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8308305/
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2697588/
6. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/16/2640
7. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5341015/
8. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eggshells-benefits-and-risks