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# Collagen

col·la·gen - KOL-ah-jen

## Definition

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up approximately 30% of all protein and serving as the primary structural component of skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, blood vessels, and [connective tissue](/glossary/fascia). Think of collagen as the scaffolding that holds your body together - it provides strength, structure, and elasticity to tissues throughout your body.

There are at least 28 known types of collagen, but types I, II, and III account for 80-90% of the collagen in your body. Type I (found in skin, bones, and tendons) is the most abundant and is stronger than steel on a per-weight basis. Type II is the primary component of cartilage. Type III supports the structure of muscles, organs, and arteries. Your body naturally produces collagen by combining [amino acids](/glossary/amino-acid) from protein-rich foods with vitamin C, zinc, and copper.

Collagen production naturally declines with age - starting in your mid-20s, you lose approximately 1-1.5% of your collagen each year. This gradual loss is visible in aging skin (wrinkles, sagging, thinning), and felt in joints (stiffness, reduced cartilage). Factors that accelerate collagen breakdown include excessive sun exposure (UV radiation), smoking, high sugar diets (glycation), and chronic stress. This [has](/glossary/hyaluronic-acid) fueled a booming collagen supplement industry, though the scientific evidence for oral collagen supplementation is still evolving.

## Also Known As

Structural protein 

## Key Facts

-   • Collagen makes up 75-80% of your skin's dry weight and 90% of the organic mass of bone. 
-   • Your body loses approximately 1-1.5% of its collagen per year after age 25. 
-   • Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis - severe deficiency (scurvy) results from inability to produce collagen. 
-   • The global collagen supplement market exceeded $9 billion in 2025, driven largely by skin and joint health claims. 
-   • Bone broth, fish, chicken, egg whites, and citrus fruits support natural collagen production. 

## How It Relates To Your Health

Collagen is clinically relevant in dermatology (skin aging and wound healing), orthopedics ([osteoarthritis](/conditions/osteoarthritis) and joint health), and gastroenterology (gut lining integrity). If you're experiencing joint pain, skin changes, or [connective tissue](/glossary/fascia) problems, your doctor may discuss collagen's role in these tissues and whether dietary or supplemental collagen might be beneficial.

Hydrolyzed collagen supplements (collagen [peptides](/glossary/peptides)) have shown promising results in some clinical trials for improving skin elasticity, reducing joint pain in osteoarthritis, and supporting bone density, though more research is needed. Supporting your body's natural collagen production through adequate protein, vitamin C, and protection from UV damage remains the most evidence-based approach.

## Related Terms

[Amino Acid](/glossary/amino-acid)[Peptides](/glossary/peptides)[Osteoporosis](/glossary/osteoporosis)[Enzyme](/glossary/enzyme)

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## Sources

1.  [Collagen](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507709/) - StatPearls / PubMed
2.  [Collagen: What Is It and What Are Its Uses?](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen) - Cleveland Clinic
3.  [Collagen Supplements](https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/collagen/) - Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

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