Type II collagen is the main structural protein of joint cartilage. Unlike type I collagen, found mostly in skin, bone and tendons, type II is specifically concentrated in the cartilage tissue that covers the ends of bones at the joints. With age, the body’s natural collagen production gradually declines, contributing to cartilage wear and joint stiffness. Vital Osmose’s marine hydrolysed collagen is derived from marine fish and undergoes an enzymatic hydrolysis process that breaks long protein chains into small peptides that are much more easily absorbed.

The Vital Osmose formula includes vitamin C, an essential nutrient with a scientifically established role in collagen synthesis. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage — an authorised EFSA health claim. Without vitamin C, the body cannot properly assemble collagen fibres, which makes this added intake particularly relevant. Vitamin C also has antioxidant properties that protect cartilage cells from oxidative stress, a factor that can worsen joint wear.

Supplementing with hydrolysed type II collagen is of growing interest for joint comfort. Once absorbed through the gut, marine collagen peptides travel via the bloodstream to joint tissue, where they serve as a substrate for cartilage regeneration. Marine collagen type II is particularly suited to active people, athletes who place heavy demand on their joints (running, tennis, hiking), and older adults wanting to maintain mobility and flexibility. The capsule format makes daily use easy with a precise dose.

Follow the recommended dose on the packaging. Take the capsules with a meal and a large glass of water to aid absorption. Joint-comfort results are usually seen after several weeks of regular use, as cartilage regeneration is a slow process — a course of at least two to three months is generally recommended to fully assess the benefits. Marine collagen can be taken continuously or in successive courses throughout the year, depending on your needs and activity level.

This food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of children. Marine collagen is extracted from fish and is not recommended for people with a fish or seafood allergy — bovine-collagen alternatives are available in-store.

What’s the difference between type I and type II collagen?

Type I collagen is the most abundant form in the body, found in skin, bone, tendons and ligaments, and is often sought for skin and hair. Type II collagen is specifically concentrated in joint cartilage and targets joint comfort. The choice depends on your main goal.

Is marine collagen suitable for people with a fish allergy?

No — marine collagen is extracted from fish, so it is not recommended for people with a fish or seafood allergy. Bovine-collagen alternatives are available in-store.

Can type II collagen be combined with other joint supplements?

Yes, marine collagen type II can be combined with other joint-support actives such as turmeric, glucosamine or chondroitin. Ask our team in-store for a personalised programme.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.