How does collagen work? Its effects, how to take it, and the difference between bovine and marine collagen.
Collagen is one of the most important structural proteins in our bodies. A true all-rounder for skin, joints, and connective tissue. But what actually happens after taking collagen? And why is marine collagen from fish considered higher quality than conventional bovine collagen?
Here you will learn how collagen works in the body, what the differences are and why HAV of Copenhagen relies on pure, sustainable marine collagen.
What is collagen and why is it so important?
Collagen makes up approximately 30% of all proteins in the human body. It provides structure, strength, and elasticity, particularly in skin, bones, tendons, cartilage, and connective tissue.
It consists of long amino acid chains that wind into stable triple helices and occur as fibers in tissues. Type one collagen is found in skin, bones, and tendons, while type two is more common in articular cartilage. Collagen acts like a framework, retains water in the skin, provides elasticity, and strengthens connective tissue.
Besides age, factors such as UV radiation, smoking, and an unbalanced diet inhibit collagen production. The first visible consequences are wrinkles, sagging skin, and a loss of elasticity. Joints also lose elasticity.
To ensure the body can continue producing enough collagen, an adequate intake of collagen peptides and vitamin C is crucial. This is where high-quality dietary supplements like HAV come into play.
How does taking collagen work?
After ingestion, the hydrolyzed collagen powder is broken down in the digestive tract into amino acids and peptides. These are then transported via the bloodstream to tissues such as skin and joints, where they serve as building blocks for the body's own collagen synthesis.
Studies show that collagen intake can increase skin hydration, improve elasticity, and promote cartilage regeneration. Regular intake over several weeks is crucial for these effects to develop.
Studies show that as little as 2.5 - 10 g of collagen peptides daily for 8 - 12 weeks:
- to improve skin elasticity and moisture,
- Visibly reduce wrinkles
-
and can support joint health.
( Source: PMC10180699 )
To achieve the maximum effect, you should consider the following points:
- Dosage: Marine collagen: 2.5 to 5 grams daily. Bovine collagen: at least 10 grams daily.
- Timing: Can be taken in the morning on an empty stomach or with a meal. Absorption may be slightly improved on an empty stomach; the bioavailability of the product is the most important factor.
- Co-factors: Vitamin C supports the conversion of peptides into the body's own collagen, while hyaluronic acid and biotin promote skin health. HAV Collagen is already formulated with these co-factors in mind.
- Regularity: Visible effects only appear through continuous intake over weeks; these effects also diminish again if intake is discontinued.
Bovine collagen vs. marine collagen – which is better?
Marine collagen is particularly impressive due to its balanced composition of short- and long-chain peptide molecules. This provides the ideal conditions for efficient absorption and optimal retention time in the body. Although bovine collagen is widespread, it is absorbed more slowly due to its larger molecular structure; collagen from fish skin and scales has a finer, more readily usable molecular size.
Studies show that peptides from marine collagen are particularly effective at penetrating skin and connective tissue, visibly improving skin structure. Furthermore, it scores points for its sustainable sourcing (when sourced from wild-caught animals).
|
feature |
Bovine collagen |
Marine collages (fish collages) |
|
source |
Cowhide, -bones |
fish skin or scales |
|
Molecule size |
Larger (2,000–5,000 Da) |
Very small (≈ 2,000 Da) |
|
Bioavailability |
Lower |
Up to 1.5x better recording |
|
Taste & Purity |
Partly intensive |
High purity & neutral |
|
sustainability |
Low, often from factory farming |
Sustainable if from wild catch |
|
Effectiveness on skin |
Good |
Excellent – improved cell penetration |
According to a study published in Nutrients (MDPI, 2020), marine collagen peptides are absorbed much more efficiently and incorporated into skin tissue more quickly due to their optimal molecular structure.
The result: visibly smoother, firmer skin and improved hydration. Often noticeable after just a few weeks of regular use.
Why HAV of Copenhagen relies on pure marine collagen
HAV of Copenhagen uses only highly purified, sustainably sourced marine collagen, combined with essential co-factors such as vitamin C, biotin, and hyaluronic acid. For maximum effectiveness.
Advantages of HAV Marine Collagen:
- High-quality marine collagen powder with optimal molecule size
- Faster absorption in the body for effective action on skin and joints
- Pure, neutral in taste and sustainably sourced
- Scientifically formulated combination with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid
- Supports skin, hair, nails and connective tissue from within
HAV Collagen delivers exactly the dosage that is considered effective in studies.
👉 Use code HAV10 to get 10% off, which can be combined with the newsletter benefit. Visit the shop.
Conclusion
Collagen is a fundamental building block for youthfulness, mobility, and well-being. However, not all collagen sources are created equal: While bovine collagen provides solid basic values, marine collagen impresses with its higher bioavailability, purity, and long-lasting effects. Those who regularly supplement and pay attention to co-factors such as vitamin C can specifically support the body's own collagen production and achieve visible results in skin, hair and joints.
With HAV of Copenhagen , you're choosing a product that is scientifically sound, cleanly formulated, and visibly effective. "Beauty from within," as it should be.
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