Quick answer

Collagen that’s been broken down into smaller segments; Increases skin’s moisture levels; Promotes a dewy, smooth appearance; Also commonly used in supplements Key benefits: Hydration.

Hydrolyzed Collagen

Updated

Collagens, hydrolyzates. Substance obtained by acidic, alkaline, or enzymatic hydrolysis of hoofs and horns composed primarily of amino acids, peptides, and proteins. It may contain impurities consisting chiefly of carbohydrates and lipids along with smaller quantities of miscellaneous organic substances of biological origin.

Purpose

Humectant that helps attract and bind moisture to skin, promoting skin hydration and a dewy, smooth look.

Rating

GOOD

Category

Humectant

INCI Purpose

ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING, HAIR CONDITIONING, HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

Benefits

Hydration — Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

Alternative Names

Hair Profile

Functions

Protein

At a Glance

Collagen that’s been broken down into smaller segments

Increases skin’s moisture levels

Promotes a dewy, smooth appearance

Also commonly used in supplements

Article

Hydrolyzed collagen, also referred to as collagen peptides, is collagen that’s been broken down into short chains of amino acids, forming collagen peptides.

Contrary to popular belief, hydrolyzed collagen does not function as an anti-aging ingredient, but rather a humectant that assists in hydrating skin. Humectants help promote a smooth, plump and dewy appearance by drawing and binding moisture to the skin. They work particularly well when paired with emollients, which help trap moisture within the skin.

Collagen occurs naturally in the body. Alongside elastin, it provides structure and firmness to skin, helping skin maintain a youthful, tight appearance. As we age, our body slows production of collagen and elastin. Combined with accumulated environmental damage, mostly from UV light exposure, this results in sagging skin with a compromised, fragmented structure.

Hydrolyzed collagen’s molecules are far too large to penetrate skin and impact its structure. This is why we use collagen-stimulating ingredients, like retinol and vitamin C, in anti-aging skin care.

This ingredient’s also commonly used in supplements and hair care.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel assessed hydrolyzed collagen and stated that it’s safe for use in cosmetics. In skin and hair care, usage levels of hydrolyzed collagen typically range from 0.2–2%.

See: Collagen Amino Acids

References