Type 2 collagen: specificities, benefits, and choices in nutricosmetics

Before addressing the specificity of type 2 collagen, it should be emphasized that the effectiveness of a supplement primarily depends on the quality of its peptide profile, that is, the structure and bioavailability of peptides obtained after hydrolysis, more than on the initial type of collagen. 

Preserving joint mobility and inner beauty relies on a thorough understanding of biological mechanisms and suitable nutritional actives. 

Type 2 collagen stands out as a key molecule in the structure of cartilage, at the heart of joint flexibility and comfort. 

Its role, benefits, and limitations are now studied rigorously, especially within the framework of micronutrition and nutricosmetics. 

Discover the range of collagen and hyaluronic acid dietary supplements and the collection collagen powder, designed to meet the demands of advanced and personalized routines.

What is type 2 collagen?

Type 2 collagen is a fibrous protein, essential to the structure of hyaline cartilage, which covers the bone ends and ensures smooth movement. 

It represents up to 90% of the collagen in articular cartilage, giving this tissue its resistance to pressure and its ability to absorb shocks. Its triple helix structure allows it to maintain the elasticity and cohesion of the cartilage.

Its key role and scientific specificities

Type 2 collagen is distinguished by its unique molecular structure, mainly composed of chains of the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, organized in a triple helix. 

This configuration gives it exceptional resistance to compression and the ability to maintain the integrity of hyaline cartilage. 

Unlike other types of collagen, type 2 is weakly cross-linked, which promotes its flexibility and elasticity. It represents about 50% of the total proteins in cartilage and up to 90% of the collagen present in this tissue, thus playing a central role in mechanical resistance and joint resilience.

Functionally, type 2 collagen:

• Constitutes the main scaffold of articular cartilage, ensuring the cohesion and stability of the extracellular matrix.
• Regulates the activity of chondrocytes, cells responsible for the synthesis and renewal of cartilage.
• Contributes to the modulation of the local inflammatory response by limiting enzymatic degradation of cartilage tissue.
• Plays a role in immune tolerance, notably in its non-denatured form, by reducing the autoimmune reaction against cartilage.

Scientific comparison with type 1 and type 3 collagen

Several types of collagen are distinguished, each performing specific functions within the body:

• Type 1 collagen: It is the most abundant in the human body. Mainly present in the skin, tendons, bones, ligaments, and dentin, it provides strength, tensile resistance, and firmness to connective tissues. Its structure is characterized by thick and highly cross-linked fibers, ensuring great mechanical stability.
• Type 2 collagen: Specific to hyaline cartilage, intervertebral discs, and the vitreous body of the eye, it is characterized by fine and weakly cross-linked fibers, promoting flexibility and resistance to compression. It constitutes the essential matrix of articular cartilage and plays a central role in joint mobility and resilience.
• Type 3 collagen: Present in the skin, blood vessels, and certain internal organs such as the liver or lungs, it is involved in structural support, elasticity, and tissue healing. It forms reticular fibers organized in a network, often associated with type 1 to optimize tissue flexibility.

Type 2 collagen is thus distinguished by its specialization in cartilage, ensuring resistance to mechanical pressures and fluidity of joint movements, while type 1 favors firmness and structure, and type 3 supports tissue flexibility and repair. Each of these collagen types meets distinct biological needs, essential to the overall balance of the body.

The importance of the peptide profile: why, once hydrolyzed, the collagen type becomes secondary compared to its peptide profile?

After hydrolysis, collagen is fragmented into low molecular weight peptides, promoting rapid assimilation and optimal diffusion in the body. 

At this stage, the collagen type becomes less determining, as the peptide profile, that is the specific composition and structure of the obtained peptides, takes over in biological effectiveness. 

These peptides are then more easily recognized and used by cells, allowing targeted action on tissue regeneration, chondrocyte stimulation, and endogenous synthesis of new collagen, regardless of the initial collagen source.

Collactive®, Naticol®, and HMG: premium collagens selected by D-LAB

D-LAB Nutricosmetics favors highly qualitative marine collagens, such as Collactive®, Naticol®, and HMG, recognized for their purity, traceability, and bioavailability.

These active ingredients come from French Green Tech and meet strict requirements in formulation and respect for living organisms.

• Collactive®: Patented complex combining type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen and elastin, it reproduces the natural ratio present in human dermis. Its peptide structure guarantees optimal assimilation and targeted action on skin firmness and elasticity. Collactive® stands out for its purity, traceability, and 100% French origin, ensuring proven effectiveness in skin support.
• Naticol®: Hydrolyzed marine collagen, obtained through gentle enzymatic processes, it offers a specific peptide profile promoting bioavailability and nutritional performance. Naticol® is recognized for its action on tissue density and tone, while adhering to a responsible and sustainable approach.
• HMG: Next-generation marine collagen hydrolysate, distinguished by its low molecular weight, facilitating rapid absorption and enhanced effectiveness. HMG is selected for its purity and its ability to support the regeneration and flexibility of connective tissues.

Although these collagens do not contain type 2, they are chosen for their excellent formulation, advanced peptide profile, and ability to act in synergy with other actives such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. 

D-LAB is committed to offering premium formulas, respectful of the body and the environment, to support beauty and inner well-being with precision and rigor.

What is the best collagen to support the joints?

For joint health, native or hydrolyzed type 2 collagen is preferred for its ability to support cartilage regeneration, preserve the structure of cartilage tissue, and promote joint mobility and flexibility, while modulating the local immune response to limit premature cartilage wear.

Also read, what is the best collagen for the skin? 

Quality criteria: purity, traceability, bioavailability, and optimization of the peptide profile.

An effective supplement must meet strict criteria:

• Purity: absence of contaminants.
• Traceability: controlled origin.
• Bioavailability: hydrolysis for optimal assimilation.

• Pro-Collagène Souplesse: Expert formula combining hydrolyzed marine collagen, natural vitamin C, and manganese. It targets joint mobility and muscle recovery by supporting cartilage regeneration and the flexibility of connective tissues. Its clean and highly bioavailable composition meets the demands of advanced routines.
• Pro-Collagène Peau Neuve Framboise: Complex based on Collactive® (patented combination of type 1 marine collagen and elastin), enriched with hyaluronic acid and natural vitamin C. This synergy promotes skin density and elasticity while contributing to skin hydration and firmness. Natural raspberry flavor for a refined sensory experience.
• Pro-Collagène Minceur Kiwi: Combination of hydrolyzed marine collagen, kiwi extract, and vitamin C. This formula supports skin tone and firmness while accompanying slimming routines. It promotes tissue regeneration and nutritional balance, respecting naturalness and a high standard of purity.
• Pro-Collagène Minceur Café: Made from hydrolyzed marine collagen, green coffee extract, and vitamin C, this supplement targets skin firmness and supports slimming routines. Its clean and effective formulation works synergistically to support tissue tone and vitality.
• Absolu de collagène: Concentrate of hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides, selected for purity and bioavailability. This minimalist and powerful formula supports tissue regeneration, skin density, and elasticity, while aligning with a clean beauty approach and impeccable traceability.
• Pro-Collagène Cheveux 360°: Synergy of hydrolyzed marine collagen, keratin, zinc, and vitamin B8. This combination targets hair strength, resistance, and vitality, while supporting scalp structure and overall hair beauty.
• Pro-Collagène Ventre-Plat: Innovative formula based on hydrolyzed marine collagen, plant fibers, and lactic ferments. It supports digestion, promotes intestinal comfort, and supports the tone of the abdominal belt, respecting a holistic approach to well-being.

What is the link between collagen loss and osteoarthritis?

The decrease in articular collagen, particularly type 2 collagen, weakens the cartilage matrix by reducing its ability to absorb shocks and maintain tissue elasticity. 

This progressive loss weakens the cartilage structure, thus promoting fiber degradation and the appearance of microcracks. Over time, this process can lead to a decrease in cartilage thickness, increased friction between joint surfaces, and the onset of pain, characteristic signs of osteoarthritis development.

Can type 2 prevent or slow the progression of osteoarthritis?

Supplementation with type 2 collagen can limit the progression of osteoarthritis by supporting cartilage regeneration.

However, it is essential to remember that the effectiveness of a supplement does not depend solely on the type of collagen used, but above all on the quality of its peptide profile. After hydrolysis, collagen is broken down into specific peptides, whose structure and bioavailability determine the ability to act on joint tissues. 

Thus, choosing a premium supplement, formulated from highly absorbable and rigorously selected peptides, is crucial to optimize benefits for joint health, regardless of the initial collagen type. This quality criterion is at the heart of D-LAB's standards, which favor active ingredients with proven efficacy and impeccable traceability.

How does type 2 act on joints and cartilage?

Type 2 collagen specifically stimulates the activity of chondrocytes, cells specialized in cartilage production and renewal. 

It promotes the synthesis of a new cartilaginous matrix, helping to strengthen the structure of joint tissue. This mechanism durably protects existing fibers against enzymatic degradation caused by mechanical or inflammatory aggressions. Thus, type 2 collagen supports the resilience, elasticity, and integrity of articular cartilage, contributing to the preservation of mobility, shock absorption, and long-term joint comfort.

When and how to consume collagen for optimal results?

For maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to consume collagen in a course of at least three months, with a daily intake, ideally in the morning on an empty stomach to promote peptide absorption. This regularity supports the renewal of the extracellular matrix and optimizes cartilage regeneration, while allowing progressive results on joint flexibility and connective tissue quality.

Convenient formats to facilitate daily integration: powder, capsules, or liquid.

• Powder to mix into a smoothie, latte, or plant-based yogurt.
• Capsules, ideal for an on-the-go routine.

Example of a daily routine with collagen powder

Incorporating collagen powder into your morning routine is simple and enjoyable. Here are some inspirations from the D-LAB Dailyblog:

• Collagen Latte: Mix a dose of collagen powder into a warm plant-based drink (almond, oat, or coconut), add a pinch of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a silky texture and a refined wellness break.
• Collagen Green Smoothie : Incorporate a dose of collagen into a blend of plant milk, fresh spinach, banana, chia seeds, and lemon juice. This smoothie promotes the intake of essential micronutrients while supporting inner beauty.
• Plant-based yogurt with collagen and red fruits : Add collagen powder to a plant-based yogurt, then garnish with fresh red fruits and some walnut pieces for a balanced and tasty snack.

These simple and adaptable recipes allow you to integrate type 2 or marine collagen into your habits while keeping pleasure and naturalness at the heart of your wellness routine.

The type 2 collagen stands out as an essential active ingredient to preserve mobility, suppleness, and joint health by directly acting on the cohesion and resilience of cartilage. 

Its effectiveness, widely documented by research, depends on synergy with complementary actives such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, as well as the quality, purity, and traceability of the sourcing. 

D-LAB formulas, developed through advanced scientific expertise and a commitment to clean beauty, offer highly effective supplements tailored to the needs of modern women seeking to combine well-being, naturalness, and visible results.

Scientific sources and clinical studies on the benefits of type 2 collagen.

• Bagchi D, Misner B, Bagchi M, et al. Effects of orally administered undenatured type 2 collagen on arthritic dogs: a placebo-controlled, double-blind study. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2002;86(3-4):98-104.
• Bello AE, Oesser S. Collagen hydrolysate for the treatment of osteoarthritis and other joint disorders: a review of the literature. Curr Med Res Opin. 2006;22(11):2221-2232.
• Clark KL, Sebastianelli W, Flechsenhar KR, et al. 24-Week study on the use of collagen hydrolysate as a dietary supplement in athletes with activity-related joint pain. Curr Med Res Opin. 2008;24(5):1485-1496.