Collagen
Large protein (~300 kDa MW); does not penetrate the stratum corneum intact and acts only as a surface humectant / film-former.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Molecular size prevents dermal penetration. Surface hydration effect is plausible; topical application has not been shown to stimulate endogenous collagen synthesis.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
About this ingredient
Collagen is a fibrillar protein of connective tissue, the main structural component of dermis, bone, tendon, cartilage. Molecular weight is about 300 kDa, a triple helix of three α-chains. Skin collagen decreases by 1% per year after 25, and by 30% in the first 5 years of menopause. Mechanism in cosmetics. The molecule is too large to cross the stratum corneum. On skin it works only as a surface humectant and film-former – binds water, temporarily smooths, gives matte tone. Claims that 'collagen penetrates the dermis and builds new collagen' are marketing without confirmation. Where applied. Masks, serums and creams with an 'anti-age' marketing angle, sheet masks in Asian lines. In Spain – in budget Mercadona Deliplus creams, Babaria, Sesderma ampoules. Also as an oral supplement – here there is a small separate evidence base for improving skin hydration with oral collagen hydrolysate. Evidence base. Topical data are weak: Sionkowska 2017 found a moderate humectant effect comparable to glycerin, with no advantage on other parameters. Oral collagen hydrolysate 2.5-10 g/day improves skin hydration and elasticity over 8-12 weeks (Choi 2019 meta-analysis), but this doesn't apply to topical use. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Fish collagen occasionally triggers allergy in fish-allergic patients. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Oral supplements: discuss with a physician, since supplement quality varies. Best suited to: dry, dehydrated skin as one humectant in a formula. Don't expect miracles from a 'collagen cream' against wrinkles – real work on the collagen scaffold is done by retinoids, acids, and fractional procedures.
Frequently asked questions
Is Collagen safe during pregnancy?
Collagen is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What is Collagen and what does it do in cosmetics?
Large protein (~300 kDa MW); does not penetrate the stratum corneum intact and acts only as a surface humectant / film-former.
What's the INCI name for Collagen?
The INCI name is Collagen. It may also appear as: Soluble Collagen.
See Collagen in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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