Shark Collagen: Benefits, Uses, and What You Should Know

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The author is a licensed cosmetologist, not a medical professional. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for joint health concerns.

Shark collagen occupies a unique niche in the collagen supplement world. Unlike the more common fish skin collagen, shark collagen typically comes from cartilage and offers a different nutritional profile. It’s been marketed for joint health, anti-aging, and even more dramatic health claims over the years.

In this guide, I’ll explain what shark collagen actually is, what science supports (and doesn’t), and help you decide if it’s worth considering. For broader context on marine-sourced collagen, see our Marine Collagen Guide.

What Is Shark Collagen?

When people talk about shark collagen, they’re usually referring to supplements derived from shark cartilage. Unlike bony fish, sharks have skeletons made entirely of cartilage, which is rich in Type II collagen, chondroitin sulfate, and other compounds.

This distinguishes shark collagen from typical fish collagen supplements. Standard marine collagen comes from fish skin and scales, providing primarily Type I collagen—the type most abundant in human skin. Shark cartilage collagen is different, providing Type II collagen—the type found in human cartilage and joints.

Some products combine shark cartilage with other marine collagen sources, while others focus specifically on the cartilage component. Understanding what’s actually in your supplement matters because the potential benefits differ based on the collagen type.

The Composition of Shark Cartilage

Shark cartilage contains several compounds that make it interesting from a nutritional perspective:

• Type II collagen: The primary structural protein in cartilage tissue
• Chondroitin sulfate: A glycosaminoglycan that helps cartilage retain water and provides cushioning
• Calcium and phosphorus: Minerals important for bone and joint health
• Various proteins: Including some that have been studied for other potential effects

This combination is why shark cartilage has been particularly marketed for joint support rather than skin benefits. The composition more closely matches what’s found in human joint cartilage than skin.

Shark Collagen for Joint Health

The primary claimed benefit of shark collagen relates to joint health. The reasoning is straightforward: since shark cartilage contains Type II collagen and chondroitin (both found in human cartilage), consuming it might support joint health.

Some research on chondroitin sulfate, which is a component of shark cartilage, has shown modest benefits for joint comfort in people with osteoarthritis. However, results across studies have been mixed, and some large trials found no significant benefit over placebo.

Type II collagen specifically has been studied for joint support, with some promising results. However, much of this research uses chicken-derived Type II collagen rather than shark-derived. Whether the source matters for outcomes isn’t well established.

If joint health is your goal, shark cartilage is one option among several, but it’s not clearly superior to other approaches like standard collagen for joint health from other sources, glucosamine, or chondroitin supplements derived from other animals.

Other Claimed Benefits

Over the years, shark cartilage has been marketed for various other benefits, some of which have little to no scientific support.

Anti-cancer claims: In the 1990s, shark cartilage was heavily marketed as a cancer treatment based on the idea that sharks rarely get cancer and their cartilage contains anti-angiogenic compounds. Subsequent research has not supported these claims, and the FDA has warned companies against making cancer-related claims for shark cartilage products.

Skin benefits: While Type I collagen from fish skin has research supporting skin hydration and elasticity benefits, shark cartilage (Type II) isn’t particularly relevant for skin health goals.

Immune support: Some marketing suggests immune-enhancing effects, but quality evidence is lacking.

Be cautious of dramatic health claims for any supplement, including shark collagen. The most reasonable use case based on available evidence is modest joint support, not curing diseases.

Sustainability Concerns

One significant consideration with shark collagen is sustainability and ethics. Many shark species are threatened or endangered due to overfishing, including for their fins. While cartilage supplements often use byproducts from sharks caught for other purposes, the broader impact on shark populations is a legitimate concern.

If you’re considering shark collagen, look for products that source from sustainable fisheries or use byproducts from food fisheries rather than contributing to additional shark harvesting. Some companies are more transparent about their sourcing than others.

Alternatively, consider whether fish-derived collagen (from non-threatened species) or bovine collagen might meet your needs without the same sustainability concerns. For joint support specifically, chicken-derived Type II collagen is well-researched and widely available.

Comparing Shark Collagen to Other Sources

Here’s how shark collagen compares to other collagen sources:

Source	Primary Type	Best For	Sustainability
Shark cartilage	Type II	Joint support	Concerns exist
Fish skin	Type I	Skin, hair, nails	Generally good
Bovine	Types I & III	Skin, general health	Moderate
Chicken	Type II	Joint support	Good

If your primary goal is skin health, shark collagen isn’t the most logical choice. Standard marine collagen or bovine collagen provides Type I collagen directly relevant to skin.

If your goal is joint support, shark cartilage is one option, but chicken-derived Type II collagen has more research behind it. Multi-collagen products that include Type II from chicken sources may be a more straightforward choice.

Should You Try Shark Collagen?

Shark collagen may be worth considering if you’re specifically interested in joint support and want to try a marine-based option. However, it’s not clearly superior to other joint support supplements, and sustainability concerns are worth weighing.

Before trying shark collagen, consider:

1. Your primary goal: For skin health, other collagen sources are more appropriate
2. Sustainability values: If environmental impact matters to you, research the product’s sourcing
3. Cost: Shark cartilage products are often expensive; ensure you’re getting value
4. Expectations: Benefits, if any, will be modest and require consistent long-term use

If joint health is your focus, you might also explore other options like chicken-derived Type II collagen, glucosamine/chondroitin combinations, or comprehensive approaches that address exercise, weight management, and overall nutrition.

The Bottom Line

Shark collagen from cartilage is a distinct product from standard fish collagen, providing Type II collagen and chondroitin sulfate rather than Type I collagen. Its primary potential use is for joint support, not skin benefits.

The evidence for shark cartilage benefits is mixed. While some components have shown promise for joint comfort, results vary and it’s not proven more effective than alternatives. Sustainability concerns add another layer to consider.

For most people, other collagen sources will be more appropriate. Fish or bovine collagen serves skin health goals better. Chicken-derived Type II collagen has more research support for joints. If you do choose shark collagen, select products from responsible sources and maintain realistic expectations.

Want to learn more? Explore our related guides:

• Marine Collagen: Complete Guide
• Collagen for Joint Health
• Collagen 101: Everything You Need to Know
• Best Collagen Supplements
• Bovine Collagen Guide

---

Have questions about collagen sources? I’m happy to provide general information. For joint conditions or health concerns, consult with a healthcare provider.