Collagen is the most abundant fibrous protein in the human body.

It is the main component of connective tissues (bones, skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, blood vessel walls, etc.), to which it gives structure and strength.

Collagen represents 30% of the total protein mass of mammals.

Hydrolysed collagen is obtained by 'breaking' collagen into smaller fragments.

In this way, collagen becomes:

• More water soluble
• Easier to digest
• More absorbable in the gut and skin
• Less allergenic (lower antigenicity)
• More antioxidant and with superior antimicrobial activity

Hydrolysed collagen is also called pre-digested collagen. It is referred to as collagen peptides in some products.

Hydrolysed collagen is used in cosmetics and dietary supplements.

In cosmetics, its action is mainly moisturising and antioxidant, as its large molecular size does not allow significant absorption into the skin.

In food supplements, hydrolysed collagen stimulates and supports the synthesis of new collagen in the skin and joints.

It is then used to give the skin a more youthful appearance, relieve joint pain and improve bone health.

The benefits

Hydrolysed collagen supplements are best known for their skin and joint benefits.

They are therefore used to combat wrinkles and to promote joint comfort and cartilage health.

The metabolic functions of hydrolysed collagen are less well known to the general public.

In fact, taking supplements containing hydrolysed collagen can help control weight and blood sugar, act as an antioxidant, and improve heart, bone, muscle and cartilage health.

Hydrolysed collagen has also been used clinically to help heal wounds and burns.

Absorption capacity

Dermal absorption capacity

With regard to cosmetic applications of hydrolysed collagen, it should be noted that the larger the peptide applied to the skin (more than six or seven amino acids), the less likely it is to reach the deeper layers of the skin.

In general, the skin is unable to effectively absorb molecules with a molecular mass greater than 0.5 kDa.

Intestinal absorption

Several studies have shown that the body can absorb hydrolysed collagen more efficiently than native collagen.

Once ingested, collagen is broken down into amino acids and small peptides during digestion, which are then absorbed and used to rebuild collagen or other proteins.

Critics of these products point out that it is not necessary to take dietary collagen supplements to synthesise this protein, as the amino acids that make up this protein are also present in other foods.

However, it should be considered that taking hydrolysed collagen supplements has been shown to stimulate collagen production and provide unique benefits.

Indications

• Anti-wrinkle action
• Nails and hair benefits
• Joint health
• Antioxidant action
• Blood sugar control
• Satisfying and slimming
• Heart health
• Muscular health
• Wounds and bedsores

Dosage and administration

Depending on the pathology to be treated, recommended doses of hydrolysed collagen can vary from 1 to 10 grams per day (some studies have used doses equivalent to 30 grams per day, mainly as a protein supplement).

Another option is to increase your intake of collagen-rich foods.

However, it is thought that hydrolysed collagen is absorbed to a greater extent than collagen from foods.

Many hydrolysed collagen supplements also contain other useful ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, zinc and copper.

Side effects

Hydrolysed collagen supplements appear to be safe for most people.

However, they can cause digestive side effects such as nausea, bloating and heartburn.

In general, highly hydrolysed collagen is better tolerated at the gastrointestinal level.

Some people have also reported that dietary collagen supplements leave a bad taste in the mouth. 

Again, hydrolysed collagen has better organoleptic properties than native or partially hydrolysed collagen.

Depending on the source, hydrolysed collagen supplements may also contain common food allergens such as fish, shellfish and eggs.