Hydrolysed Collagen: What It Is & Its Benefits
Hydrolysed collagen, also known as collagen peptides, has become a popular supplement. But what exactly is hydrolysed collagen, and how does it differ from other forms of collagen?
What Is Hydrolysed Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It provides structure to the skin, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. As we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to signs of ageing such as wrinkles, joint discomfort, and brittle nails 4.
Hydrolysed collagen — also called collagen peptides — is collagen that’s been broken down into smaller amino acid chains through a process called hydrolysis. This enhances its bioavailability, allowing the body to absorb and utilise it more efficiently.
Where Does Hydrolysed Collagen Come From?
Hydrolysed collagen is typically sourced from animal tissues, including bovine (cow), porcine (pig), poultry (chicken), and marine (fish). Each has its own amino acid profile and absorption characteristics. Vida Glow’s Natural Marine Collagen is derived from sustainably sourced fish skin.
Marine collagen is known for its superior bioavailability thanks to its smaller peptide size. This allows the body to absorb it more efficiently. You can read more about marine vs bovine collagen to understand why marine is often preferred.
Key Benefits of Hydrolysed Collagen Supplements
Enhances Skin Health
Hydrolysed collagen has been shown to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It contributes to the skin’s structure and promotes a more youthful complexion 2.
Supports Joint and Bone Health
Collagen is a key component of cartilage and bones. Hydrolysed collagen supplements may help maintain joint flexibility and bone strength 7, while also reducing discomfort linked to ageing or exercise.
Strengthens Hair and Nails
Regular intake of hydrolysed collagen can support keratin production and strengthen hair and nail structure. Vida Glow’s range includes hair growth supplements and fragile nails treatment to support this from within.
Promotes Gut Health
Collagen contains amino acids like glycine and glutamine, which help support the gut lining. This can benefit digestive health and help manage conditions like leaky gut syndrome.
Aids Muscle Mass and Recovery
Whether you’re lifting weights or wrangling toddlers, hydrolysed collagen supports muscle recovery and repair. It delivers amino acids essential for muscle regeneration and post-exercise recovery.
Does Hydrolysed Collagen Work?
Scientific studies show that hydrolysed collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity, hydration, and joint function 6. For example, a meta-analysis in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that daily collagen peptide use over 90 days significantly improved skin hydration and firmness 1. Individual results vary, but consistency is key — along with a healthy routine — to unlocking full marine collagen benefits.
Still wondering how long collagen takes to work? It depends on the formulation and your consistency. Studies suggest benefits can appear between 4–12 weeks. Vida Glow’s Collagen Liquid Advance is a ready-to-drink solution that combines hydrolysed marine collagen with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to accelerate results.
How to Choose the Best Hydrolysed Collagen Supplement
When choosing a hydrolysed collagen supplement, consider the source, bioavailability, and supporting ingredients. Not sure how much to take? Our collagen dosage guide can help.
Natural Marine Collagen: Vida Glow’s original, pure powder with no additives. Perfect for long-term maintenance of skin, hair, and nails.
Pro Collagen +: A targeted, high-strength formula designed to deliver visible skin results fast. Clinically proven to reduce wrinkles in 28 days 5.
Collagen Liquid Advance: A convenient, single-serve drink with hydrolysed marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. Ideal for radiant, hydrated skin on the go.
FAQs about Hydrolysed Collagen
Is hydrolysed collagen suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No — hydrolysed collagen is derived from animal sources, including marine collagen from fish. While vegan alternatives exist, they do not contain actual collagen but may support natural collagen production.
How long does it take to see results from hydrolysed collagen supplementation?
Results typically appear within 4 to 12 weeks. For faster results, Pro Collagen + has been shown to improve skin elasticity and texture in just 28 days.
Are there any side effects associated with hydrolysed collagen?
Hydrolysed collagen is generally well-tolerated. Some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort initially. Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning supplementation.
Hydrolysed collagen peptides are designed for better absorption, making them an effective way to support your body’s repair processes from within. Vida Glow’s formulations — from Natural Marine Collagen to targeted options like Pro Collagen + — offer solutions tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
Sources:
1. Choi, Franchesca D., et al. "Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications." Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, vol. 18, no. 1, 2019, pp. 9–16. www.jddonline.com.
2. Zague, Viviane. “A New View Concerning the Effects of Collagen Hydrolysate Intake on Skin Properties.” Archives of Dermatological Research, vol. 300, no. 9, 2008, pp. 479–483. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0888-4.
3. Borumand, Maryam, and Sara Sibilla. "Daily Consumption of the Collagen Supplement Pure Gold Collagen® Reduces Visible Signs of Aging." Clinical Interventions in Aging, vol. 9, 2014, pp. 1747–1758. https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S65939.
4. Kim, Do-Un, et al. "Oral Intake of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptide Improves Hydration, Elasticity, and Wrinkling in Human Skin: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study." Nutrients, vol. 10, no. 7, 2018, p. 826. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10070826.
5. Bolke, Liane, et al. “A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study.” Nutrients, vol. 11, no. 10, 2019, p. 2494. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102494.
6. König, Daniel, et al. “Specific Collagen Peptides Improve Bone Mineral Density and Bone Markers in Postmenopausal Women—A Randomized Controlled Study.” Nutrients, vol. 10, no. 1, 2018, p. 97. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10010097.
7. Martínez-Puig, Daniel, et al. "Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge." Nutrients, vol. 15, no. 6, 2023, p. 1332. MDPI, https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15061332.
