Hydrolyzed Collagen

What it is

Hydrolyzed collagen is collagen that has been broken down by acid, enzymes or heat into much smaller peptide fragments. This makes it water-soluble and easier to formulate, and it sits more comfortably on skin than whole collagen. It is used as a humectant and conditioning agent in masks, serums and hair products.

What it does well

• Binds water and improves skin softness

  The small peptides are effective humectants and leave skin feeling smooth and supple. This surface effect is well established.

  Moderate evidence

Worth knowing

• Does not restore the skin's own collagen when applied topically

  Although smaller than whole collagen, these fragments still act as surface humectants rather than raw material for new dermal collagen. Any firming impression is a hydration effect.

  Matters most toAnyone choosing a product for advertised collagen-rebuilding claims.

• Animal-derived, so not vegan

  Usually sourced from fish, cattle or pigs. Vegan alternatives on packs are typically yeast-derived or plant proteins, not true collagen.

  Matters most toVegans, vegetarians, people with fish allergy, and those avoiding specific animal products for religious reasons.

Where the EU stands