What Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Type 1 and 3?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Is Collagen?
3. Understanding Type 1 and Type 3 Collagen
4. What Does "Hydrolyzed" Actually Mean?
5. The Benefits of Combining Type 1 and Type 3
6. Myth vs. Fact: Understanding Collagen Supplements
7. Sourcing Matters: Why Grass-Fed Is Non-Negotiable
8. How to Use Hydrolyzed Collagen in Your Daily Routine
9. Factors That Damage Your Natural Collagen
10. The BUBS Naturals Difference
11. Conclusion
12. FAQ

Introduction

You might notice it first in the mirror or during a morning run. Maybe your skin feels less resilient than it used to, or your joints take a little longer to warm up before a workout. These changes are often the first signs that your body’s natural protein production is starting to slow down.

Understanding what is hydrolyzed collagen type 1 and 3 is the first step toward reclaiming your physical foundation. These two specific types of collagen make up the vast majority of the "glue" that holds your body together. At BUBS Naturals, we believe in keeping health simple and effective, which is why our BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptides fit so naturally into an active lifestyle.

This guide will explain exactly what these proteins are, why the "hydrolyzed" label matters for your results, and how they work within your body. We will break down the science of skin elasticity, joint health, and structural integrity so you can make an informed choice for your wellness routine.

Quick Answer: Hydrolyzed collagen type 1 and 3 are structural proteins broken down into smaller, easy-to-absorb pieces called peptides. Type 1 primarily supports skin, hair, and bone strength, while Type 3 supports muscles, organs, and arterial health.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It accounts for roughly 30% of your total protein mass. Think of it as the biological scaffolding that provides structure, strength, and support to your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Without it, your body would lacks the "bounce" and resilience required for daily movement and long-term health.

Proteins are built from amino acids. The primary amino acids in collagen are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These group together to form long protein fibrils in a triple helix structure. This structure is incredibly strong. In fact, gram for gram, certain types of collagen fibers are stronger than steel.

Your body produces its own collagen naturally, but this process requires specific cofactors. You need adequate amounts of Vitamin C, zinc, and copper to successfully build that triple helix. As we age, this natural production facility starts to wind down. Most people begin to lose about 1% of their collagen every year starting in their mid-20s. By the time you reach 40 or 50, that decline becomes much more noticeable.

Understanding Type 1 and Type 3 Collagen

While there are at least 28 different types of collagen identified by scientists, the vast majority of the collagen in your body—about 90%—is Type 1, which is why our Collagen Peptides collection focuses on the forms that matter most.

Type 1: The Building Block for Strength

Type 1 collagen is the heavy hitter. It is found in almost all connective tissue. Its primary job is to provide mechanical strength to the parts of your body that take the most abuse. This includes your skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones.

In the skin, Type 1 fibers are what keep things firm and smooth. When Type 1 levels drop, the skin loses its ability to snap back, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. In the skeletal system, Type 1 collagen provides a flexible matrix for minerals like calcium to latch onto. This prevents bones from becoming brittle.

Type 3: The Support for Soft Tissues

Type 3 collagen is often found alongside Type 1, but it has a slightly different focus. It is a major component of our extracellular matrix, particularly in our internal organs and large blood vessels. It is also found in high concentrations in the middle layer of your skin, called the dermis.

Type 3 is essential for the health of your cardiovascular system. It provides the elasticity and strength needed for your arteries to expand and contract with every heartbeat. It is also a key player in the early stages of wound healing, helping the body create a framework for new tissue growth. Because Type 3 is so integrated with Type 1 in the skin and muscles, they are almost always grouped together in high-quality supplements.

Key Takeaway: Type 1 provides the rigid strength for bones and tendons, while Type 3 provides the elastic support for organs and skin. Combining them covers the vast majority of your body's structural needs.

What Does "Hydrolyzed" Actually Mean?

If you look at a container of BUBS Naturals collagen, you will see the word "hydrolyzed," and our hydrolyzed collagen benefits guide breaks down why that matters.

In its natural state, collagen is a very large, complex molecule. If you were to eat raw collagen, your digestive system would have a very hard time breaking it down into usable parts. The molecules are simply too big to pass through the intestinal wall effectively.

Hydrolysis is a process where the long molecular chains of collagen are broken down into smaller pieces using water and enzymes. These smaller pieces are called collagen peptides.

Bioavailability and Absorption

The primary reason for using hydrolyzed collagen is bioavailability. Bioavailability refers to how well your body can actually absorb and use a substance. When collagen is hydrolyzed, the resulting peptides have a very low molecular weight.

Because these peptides are so small, they are easily absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. Once they enter the bloodstream, they act as the raw materials your body needs to rebuild its own collagen structures. They also act as signaling molecules, "tricking" the body into thinking it needs to ramp up its own natural collagen production.

Note: Not all collagen is created equal. Raw collagen or gelatin (which is partially cooked collagen) takes much longer for the body to process. Hydrolyzed peptides are designed for maximum efficiency.

The Benefits of Combining Type 1 and Type 3

When you supplement with a blend of Type 1 and Type 3 hydrolyzed collagen, you are targeting the two most important types for overall wellness and recovery. These types work together to support multiple systems in the body.

Skin Health and Aging

Most people become interested in collagen because of its reputation for skin health. Research suggests that hydrolyzed collagen can improve skin hydration and elasticity, and our BUBS BOOST Vitamin C and collagen guide explains why the duo works so well.

Studies have shown that consistent supplementation over 8 to 12 weeks can result in a measurable reduction in the appearance of fine lines. It helps the skin retain moisture, giving it a more "plump" and youthful appearance. This is not about a quick fix; it is about providing the internal nutrients that support the skin's natural repair cycle.

Joint and Connective Tissue Support

While Type 2 collagen is often the focus for joint cartilage, Type 1 and Type 3 are vital for the tendons and ligaments that hold your joints in place. Tendons connect muscle to bone, and ligaments connect bone to bone. Both are made almost entirely of Type 1 collagen.

For active individuals, athletes, or veterans who have put their bodies through intense physical stress, maintaining these connective tissues is essential. Supplementing with hydrolyzed peptides may support the repair of these tissues after exercise. We recommend mixing it with our Hydrate or Die electrolytes to support both structural repair and rapid rehydration after a sweat session.

Bone Density and Muscle Recovery

Bones are living tissue. While we often think of them as hard blocks of minerals, they are actually made of a flexible collagen matrix filled with calcium. As we age and collagen production drops, bones can become more porous and brittle. Supplementing with Type 1 collagen may help support bone mineral density by providing the structural framework bones need to stay strong.

On the muscle side, Type 3 collagen is found in the connective tissue that surrounds muscle fibers. This tissue helps transmit force and protects the muscle during contraction. Providing your body with the amino acids found in collagen can help support the overall integrity of your muscular system, making it easier to bounce back from a tough training session.

Bottom line: Combining Type 1 and Type 3 collagen supports everything from the visible health of your skin to the invisible strength of your bones and arteries, making it a comprehensive tool for whole-body resilience.

Myth vs. Fact: Understanding Collagen Supplements

There is plenty of misinformation in the wellness world. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions about what collagen can and cannot do.

Myth: Collagen is just another protein powder, no different than whey. Fact: While collagen is a protein, its amino acid profile is unique. It is much higher in glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline than whey or plant proteins. These specific amino acids are what the body uses to build connective tissue.

Myth: You can just eat more meat to get the same results. Fact: Most of the collagen in meat is found in the "tough" parts like skin, tendons, and cartilage—parts we usually throw away. Even if you eat them, the collagen is not hydrolyzed, meaning your body will struggle to absorb it compared to a peptide powder.

Myth: You will see results overnight. Fact: Collagen is a structural protein. It takes time for the body to incorporate these nutrients into your skin, hair, and joints. Most research indicates that it takes 60 to 90 days of consistent use to see and feel a significant difference.

Sourcing Matters: Why Grass-Fed Is Non-Negotiable

When you are looking for hydrolyzed collagen type 1 and 3, where that collagen comes from is just as important as how it is processed. Most Type 1 and 3 collagen is bovine-sourced, meaning it comes from cows.

At BUBS Naturals, we only use grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine collagen. This is a critical distinction for a few reasons. First, cows that are raised on pasture and eat their natural diet of grass are generally healthier and free from the hormones and antibiotics often found in grain-fed, factory-farmed cattle.

Second, grass-fed sourcing aligns with our commitment to clean, simple ingredients. We believe that if you want to put your body in the best position to perform and recover, you should start with the cleanest possible raw materials. Our collagen is also third-party tested and NSF for Sport certified, which we break down in our BUBS Collagen Peptides are Third-Party Certified guide. This ensures that what is on the label is exactly what is in the tub, with no fillers or banned substances.

How to Use Hydrolyzed Collagen in Your Daily Routine

One of the best things about hydrolyzed collagen is how easy it is to use. Because the peptides are so small, they dissolve easily in both hot and cold liquids. Unlike gelatin, which thickens and turns into a jelly-like substance, hydrolyzed collagen stays liquid.

The Morning Kickstart

Many people choose to add a scoop of collagen to their morning coffee. It is flavorless and odorless, so it won't ruin the taste of your favorite roast. Because it is heat-stable, the hot coffee won't damage the protein. This is a simple way to ensure you get your daily dose before the day even gets busy.

Post-Workout Recovery

You can also toss a scoop of collagen into your post-workout shake. While it shouldn't replace a complete protein source like whey if your goal is massive muscle growth, it is a perfect "additive" to support the tendons and ligaments you just worked.

Cooking and Baking

Because it dissolves so well, you can even add collagen to soups, stews, or oatmeal. Some people even use it in pancake batter or energy ball recipes. The goal is consistency. Finding a way to fit it into your existing routine makes it much more likely that you will stick with it long enough to see the benefits.

Dosage Guidelines

How much should you take? Most clinical studies on hydrolyzed collagen use doses ranging from 10 to 20 grams per day.

• For skin health: 10 grams per day is often sufficient.
• For joint and bone support: Many athletes and active adults find that 20 grams (usually two scoops) provides better support for recovery and long-term joint health.

Important: Always listen to your body. While collagen is generally very safe, starting with a half dose can help your digestive system adjust if you have a sensitive stomach.

Factors That Damage Your Natural Collagen

Supplementing is only half the battle. If you want to protect the collagen you already have, you need to be aware of the lifestyle factors that accelerate its breakdown.

• UV Exposure: Too much sun is the number one enemy of skin collagen. Ultraviolet rays penetrate the dermis and break down collagen fibers. Always wear sunscreen and protective clothing if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
• Sugar and Refined Carbs: High sugar intake leads to a process called glycation. This is when sugar molecules attach to proteins in your blood, creating "advanced glycation end products" (AGEs). These molecules make collagen brittle and weak.
• Smoking: Tobacco use significantly decreases collagen production and damages existing fibers. It also constricts blood vessels, preventing nutrients from reaching the skin and connective tissues.
• Chronic Stress: High levels of cortisol can break down collagen over time. Managing stress through movement, sleep, and recovery is vital for your structural health.

By combining a high-quality supplement with a lifestyle that protects your natural proteins, you create a powerful defense against the aging process.

The BUBS Naturals Difference

We didn't start this brand just to sell supplements. We started it to honor the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty, a Navy SEAL and adventurer who lived his life with purpose and intensity, and you can read more in our About BUBS story.

Our Collagen Peptides provide a clean, single-ingredient source of hydrolyzed Type 1 and Type 3 collagen. There are no "proprietary blends," no hidden fillers, and no BS. We focus on grass-fed sourcing and rigorous testing because we know that athletes and veterans demand the best.

When you choose us, you are also contributing to something bigger. We donate 10% of all our profits to veteran-focused charities in BUB's honor, and our giving-back story explains how that commitment shows up in the real world. It is our way of ensuring that every scoop of collagen helps you live a better life while supporting the community that gave so much.

Conclusion

Understanding what is hydrolyzed collagen type 1 and 3 helps you take control of your long-term health. These proteins are the foundation of your skin, bones, and connective tissues. By choosing a hydrolyzed form, you ensure that your body can actually absorb and use these vital amino acids to repair and rebuild.

Remember these key points as you start your journey:

• Type 1 and 3 are the most abundant and important types for daily health.
• "Hydrolyzed" means the protein is broken down for better absorption.
• Consistency is the key to seeing real changes in skin, joints, and recovery.
• Quality sourcing (grass-fed) and purity testing are non-negotiable.

Living an active, adventurous life requires a strong foundation. Whether you are hitting the trail, the gym, or just the daily grind, providing your body with the right structural support can make all the difference.

"Live a life of adventure and purpose. Your body is the only vehicle you have for the journey—treat it with respect."

Ready to strengthen your foundation? Grab a tub of BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptides and start supporting your joints and skin today.

FAQ

Is there a difference between collagen peptides and hydrolyzed collagen?

No, these terms are essentially the same. Hydrolyzed collagen is the scientific name for the process used to break down the protein, while collagen peptides refer to the resulting small chains of amino acids. Both indicate that the supplement is in an easy-to-absorb form.

Can I get enough Type 1 and 3 collagen from my diet?

It is difficult for most people because the highest concentrations of these types are found in animal parts we don't usually eat, like skin, bones, and connective tissue. While bone broth provides some collagen, a hydrolyzed supplement provides a more concentrated and easily absorbed dose of the specific peptides your body needs.

How long does it take to see results from collagen?

Most clinical research suggests that it takes between 8 and 12 weeks of consistent daily use to see improvements in skin hydration and joint comfort. Because collagen is a structural protein, your body needs time to integrate the amino acids into its tissues, so patience and consistency are vital.

Does heat damage collagen powder if I put it in coffee?

No, hydrolyzed collagen is heat-stable up to very high temperatures, well beyond the temperature of a standard cup of coffee or even boiling water. You can safely add it to hot coffee, tea, or even use it in baking without losing the nutritional benefits of the peptides.