What it is
Hydrolyzed collagen is the collagen protein that has been chemically or enzymatically broken down into much smaller peptide chains. Compared with intact collagen, which averages around 300,000 Da, the hydrolyzed version has a far smaller average molecular weight (roughly 12,000 Da) and is an undefined, varying mix of largish peptides. In cosmetics it works mainly as a humectant and emollient, binding water to help the skin retain moisture and leaving a smoother surface feel, and it is also used in cleansers to soften surfactants and in conditioners to improve hair flexibility.
Safety & warnings
Hydrolyzed collagen is a mixture of protein peptides used as a moisturizing, water-binding ingredient and is generally well tolerated topically. Because it is animal-derived, it is not suitable for those who avoid animal ingredients, and as with any protein-based material, individuals with known sensitivities to specific protein sources may wish to patch test.
Origin & sourcing
It is an animal-derived ingredient. Source collagen is most often taken from bovine bones and hides, porcine skins and bones, or marine and fish by-products, then hydrolyzed by acid, alkali, or enzymes to cut the protein fibrils into smaller peptides.
History
Hydrolyzed collagen is closely related to gelatin: gelatin that has undergone hydrolysis is also referred to as hydrolyzed collagen, collagen hydrolysate, gelatine hydrolysate, and collagen peptides, reflecting their shared origin in the same animal collagen.
Questions everyone asks
Does topical hydrolyzed collagen replace the skin's own collagen?
It works mainly as a humectant and film former that binds water at the surface; it conditions and smooths the skin rather than acting as a structural replacement.
What is hydrolyzed collagen made from?
It is made by hydrolyzing animal collagen, typically from bovine hides and bones, porcine skin, or marine and fish by-products.
How is it different from regular collagen?
It has been broken into much smaller peptides, with a far lower molecular weight than intact collagen, which makes it easier to disperse in formulas.