Hydrolyzed Collagen
Collagen fragments broken down to peptides and amino acids. Moisturize the skin surface but do not integrate into the dermis's own collagen. Marketing often exaggerates the effect.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Surface moisturizing effect via water retention is confirmed. Collagen molecules are too large for dermal penetration even in hydrolyzed form. No clinical evidence of collagenogenesis from topical application.
- Zague V et al. Arch Dermatol Res. 2008;300(9):479-83. PMID 18784933
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Dry, Normal, Combination
About this ingredient
Hydrolyzed Collagen is collagen cut by enzymes or acids into short peptides and amino acids (1-10 kDa). Sourced from fish, pork, beef hides and bones; rarely produced recombinantly. Mechanism. Fragment size is too large to cross the stratum corneum and integrate into the dermis's own collagen. On the skin surface it works as a film-former and humectant, holds water, and temporarily smooths microrelief – this delivers the "firmness" effect right after application. Where applied. Anti-aging creams, masks, serums, shampoos, conditioners (0.1-5%). In Spain in Babaria Colágeno, Skin Doctors Collagen, Iroha masks. Marketing typically shows "rejuvenation" – clinical data do not support this. Evidence base. RCTs of systemic oral collagen hydrolysate (10-15 g/day, 8-12 weeks) show better skin hydration and reduced wrinkle depth: Proksch 2014, Bolke 2019. Topical products are studied less: surface hydration is measured, but direct increase of dermal collagen is not shown. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of hydrolyzed collagen at cosmetic concentrations (2008, re-evaluated 2018). Allergy is rare but reported: more often to fish collagen in patients allergic to fish. Pregnancy – safe topically. Lactation – no topical-use data, risk considered low.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hydrolyzed Collagen safe during pregnancy?
Hydrolyzed Collagen is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Hydrolyzed Collagen for?
Hydrolyzed Collagen suits: dry, normal, combination.
What is Hydrolyzed Collagen and what does it do in cosmetics?
Collagen fragments broken down to peptides and amino acids.
What's the INCI name for Hydrolyzed Collagen?
The INCI name is Hydrolyzed Collagen. It may also appear as: Collagen Amino Acids, Soluble Collagen.
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