Collagen that has been converted into short chains of amino acids around 3–6 kilodaltons, is called hydrolyzed collagen and is also known as collagen peptides. Hydrolyzed Collagen is primarily used in skincare and hair preparations in cosmetics and personal care products, but it is also present in makeup, shampoos, and bath products. Unlike popular belief, hydrolyzed collagen is a humectant, which helps hydrate skin, rather than an anti-aging ingredient.
What is HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN used for?
The benefits of hydrolyzed collagen are not limited to the skin but also help the hair. Hydrolyzed collagen benefits the skin by reducing the appearance of dry or damaged skin. This is done by restoring suppleness and reducing flaking. Hydrolyzed collagen improves the look and feel of hair by giving it more suppleness, or sheen when used in hair preparations. Furthermore, it may improve the texture of hair that has been physically or overly treated or damaged.
Hair typically absorbs hydrolyzed collagen, which increases tensile strength and elongation. It works as an antistatic agent, emollient, film-former, and skin-conditioning agent. Additionally, it gives skin a soft texture when it is included in soaps. Usage rates of hydrolyzed collagen in skin and hair care typically range from 0.2-2.0%.
Origin
Different sources can be used to extract hydrolyzed collagen, but the most common source is bovine because of its biocompatibility. It is possible to extract collagen from a variety of tissues, including bones, tendons, lung tissue, and connective tissue. By-products from porcine are another typical source. Fish tissue, ovine tendon, and skin, as well as other sources like chicken and duck skin, have been developed as substitute sources for native collagen extraction that are not of bovine or porcine origin. Acid or alkaline treatment can be used for extraction.
Safety profile
Hydrolyzed collagen has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, which concluded that its use in cosmetics is safe. Hydrolyzed collagen didn't cause any skin sensitivity, phototoxicity, or skin irritation in clinical studies. The general guidelines of the European Union's Cosmetics Regulation permit the use of hydrolyzed collagen in cosmetic products in Europe.