Collagen peptides, what are they and what is the difference with hydrolysed collagen?
Published: 21 October, 2022 | 2'
What are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen peptides or hydrolysed collagen are both words synonymous. They are short, small chains composed of amino acids, derived from the breakdown of high-density native collagen (enzymatic hydrolysis process). Their lower molecular weight allows better absorption of the peptides in the body and, therefore, better assimilation.
Types of Collagen
Different types of native collagen have been found in our body and, therefore, of their hydrolysed collagen peptides. Although there are many types of collagen, the most common in our body are type I (constitutes 75% of the collagen present in the skin), II (located almost exclusively in the cartilage of the joints) and III (the main structural component of blood vessels).
Benefits of collagen peptides in the joints
Hydrolysed collagen is well absorbed when taken orally and is easily distributed in the tissues of joint cartilage, providing proteins that are part of the structures of cartilage, tendons and ligaments (connective tissues) and promoting their elasticity and lubrication.
Benefits of Collagen Peptides for the skin
The collagen present naturally in our skin is responsible for the young and healthy appearance of our skin. The benefits of oral supplementation of hydrolysed collagen type I are based on the fact that its intrinsic production in the body decreases with age; however, after oral supplementation, it has been shown that the bioavailability of hydrolysed collagen type I is 90% in the skin, promoting its nutrition, hydration, firmness and smoothness.
What type of peptide is used in skin cosmetics?
Taking into account the importance of the size of the particle, cosmetic formulations opt for reduced sizes that promote the absorption of the ingredient into the epidermis. Therefore, the most commonly used collagen peptides will be those of small size composed of few amino acid units (hexapeptides, tetrapeptides, pentapeptides).
How do I know if I have healthy collagen levels?
With ageing, the level of collagen decreases, especially after the age of 35.
There are some signs that may be indicative of a decrease in collagen production in the body:
- Dry skin, with wrinkles, comedones or blemishes.
- Dry hair and weak, brittle nails.
- Stiffness and discomfort in joints
How do peptides act on the skin?
Collagen peptides promote endogenous collagen synthesis, which smoothes wrinkles and expression lines, making it easier for the skin to regenerate and providing elasticity and tone. It is also a natural moisturiser, which maintains hydration.
Use of collagen peptides in cosmetics
Collagen peptides are widely used in cosmetic products. It is one of the quintessential anti-ageing ingredients. It is widely used in serums and moisturisers and is often combined with other anti-ageing and/or antioxidant ingredients.
Food supplements with collagen peptides or hydrolysed collagen
There are supplements containing hydrolysed collagen that can be added to your diet, mainly nutricosmetics for skin care and food supplements focused on osteoarticular well-being.
The most commonly used formats for the intake of hydrolysed collagen are drinkable vials and then capsules, both formats have the advantage of good absorption and bioavailability of the collagen peptides.
