Broken-down collagen protein, the main structural protein in skin, joints and bone.
Why it’s used: Provides the amino acids used to build collagen; vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It forms the scaffolding of skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone, giving them strength and structure. It is made from a distinctive mix of amino acids, rich in glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, and the body's own production slows as we get older.
Collagen peptides, also called hydrolysed collagen or collagen hydrolysate, are collagen that has been broken down into short chains so it dissolves easily and is readily digested. Supplements are made from animal sources, most commonly bovine (cattle hide), marine (fish skin and scales) or porcine (pig skin). Gelatine and bone broth are traditional food sources of the same protein.
You will find collagen peptides as unflavoured powders that mix into drinks, as well as capsules and ready-to-drink shots, often combined with vitamin C. That pairing makes sense, because vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones and cartilage. Researchers have studied collagen peptides in trials looking at skin and joints, with some encouraging results, though there are no authorised health claims for collagen itself.
3 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 randomised controlled trials with 1,721 participants found significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity with hydrolysed collagen versus placebo. The authors noted some bias in the included trials.
A meta-analysis of 19 randomised, double-blind controlled trials with 1,125 people aged 20 to 70 (95% women) found favourable effects of hydrolysed collagen on skin hydration, elasticity and wrinkles.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 randomised controlled trials with 870 participants found significant improvements in both function and pain scores favouring collagen supplementation over placebo.
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Neither has been shown to be clearly better. Both supply similar amino acids, and results in trials depend more on the specific product and amount used. Marine collagen suits people who avoid beef or pork, while bovine collagen suits people with a fish allergy.
Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage, blood vessels, gums and teeth. Your body needs it to build collagen from amino acids, so many collagen products include it. Collagen itself has no authorised health claim.
True collagen only comes from animals. Products labelled vegan collagen usually contain the building blocks your body uses, such as the amino acids glycine and proline, plus vitamin C. They can support your body's own production but are not collagen themselves.
Videos from doctors, research scientists and registered dietitians, for general education. They are independent of Nutra Formulations, do not refer to our products and are not medical advice for you.
5 Surprising Facts About Collagen Supplements You Must Know
Dr Anthony Youn, MD, plastic surgeon · Doctor Youn on YouTube
Dermatologist: Do Collagen Peptides Really Work for Anti-Aging?
Dr Sarah Sheu, MD, dermatologist · Dr. Sarah Sheu on YouTube
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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