Joint/Skin
Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II
Also known as: Type II collagen peptides, hydrolyzed type II collagen, collagen II, UC-II (undenatured form)
Hydrolyzed Type II collagen is a processed form of collagen derived primarily from chicken cartilage, broken down into smaller peptides for improved bioavailability. It is formulated to support joint cartilage integrity and resilience.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pure Encapsulations Joint Complex (single dose) | 81 A- | $2.03 |
| 2 | Kirkland Signature Triple Action Joint Health, 110 Coated Tablets | 79 B+ | $0.26 |
| 3 | Natural Factors OsteoMove Extra Strength Joint Care* | 75 B+ | $0.75 |
| 4 | Doctor's Best Glucosamine Chondroitin, MSM + UCII, 90 Veggie Capsule | 72 B | $0.77 |
| 5 | Healthy Origins UC-II | 72 B | $0.33 |
| 6 | Codeage Supreme Joint Health | 69 B | $1.67 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II should I take?
The typical range is 1,000–3,000 mg daily (10 mg undenatured type II collagen per capsule in UC-II formulations; 1,500–2,000 mg hydrolyzed form more common). Benefits typically appear after 8–12 weeks of consistent use; some studies show cumulative benefit up to 16+ weeks
When should I take Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II?
Morning dosing with breakfast is standard; can be taken anytime. May be taken with or without food; taking with vitamin C enhances collagen synthesis.
Which form of Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II is best?
Capsules. Other forms in the catalog: Powder, Tablets.
Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II safe?
Commonly reported: Mild digestive upset (rare), Aftertaste or fishy flavor (powder form).
Which Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II supplement scores highest?
Pure Encapsulations Joint Complex (single dose), at 81/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Joint health and cartilage support
- Joint comfort and flexibility
- Connective tissue maintenance
How it works
- Provides bioavailable collagen peptides that accumulate in articular cartilage
- May trigger immune tolerance to type II collagen, reducing cartilage-degrading immune responses
- Supplies amino acids (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline) needed for collagen synthesis
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1,000–3,000 mg daily (10 mg undenatured type II collagen per capsule in UC-II formulations; 1,500–2,000 mg hydrolyzed form more common)
- Timing
- Morning dosing with breakfast is standard; can be taken anytime
- With food
- May be taken with or without food; taking with vitamin C enhances collagen synthesis
- Duration
- Benefits typically appear after 8–12 weeks of consistent use; some studies show cumulative benefit up to 16+ weeks
- Special populations
- Safe in most populations; generally recognized as safe in pregnancy based on collagen safety data. Avoid if poultry allergy present. Consult provider if immunocompromised (some evidence suggests immune modulation).
Forms
- Capsules· 70/100
- Powder· 70/100
- Tablets· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Mild digestive upset (rare)
- Aftertaste or fishy flavor (powder form)
Contraindications
- Poultry allergy or sensitivity (primary source)
- Known shellfish allergy if processing environment involves cross-contamination
Products containing Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Solid evidence from RCTs showing improvements in joint comfort and cartilage markers. Some evidence suggests oral tolerance induction (particularly for undenatured UC-II form). Effect sizes are moderate; benefits depend on consistent use and adequate duration.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Joint/Skin
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.