Hydrolyzed Collagen or Hydrolysed collagen peptides or Collagen hydrolysate.

The name defines the structure of the molecule:

• Peptides are short chains of amino acids. The term 'peptides' in this context refers to the chains of amino acids that result from the hydrolysis of collagen.
• Collagen is the type of protein that is hydrolysed. Collagen is one of the main components of connective tissues in animals.
• Hydrolysed refers to the process of hydrolysis, in which large molecules are broken down into smaller ones by the addition of water.

The synthesis process takes place in different steps:

• Extraction. Collagen is extracted from animal sources such as cow hides, bones or fish scales. Usually, the starting material is boiled to denature the collagen into gelatin.
• Hydrolysis. The extracted gelatin is then hydrolysed, i.e. broken down into smaller chains of amino acids, known as peptides. This is typically done using enzymes or acids.
• Purification and drying. The hydrolysed collagen thus obtained is purified to remove residual impurities. It is then dried into a powder for use in various products.

What it is for and where

Hydrolyzed collagen, also known as collagen peptides, is a form of collagen that has been broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed particles. It has a variety of uses in both medicine and cosmetics due to its beneficial properties for skin, hair, nails, and joints. 

However, while there are many claims about the benefits of hydrolyzed collagen, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential benefits.

Medical

In medicine, hydrolyzed collagen is often used as a supplement for joint health. Studies have shown that it can help to improve symptoms of osteoarthritis and reduce joint pain. It's also used in wound healing because of its ability to stimulate tissue growth and repair.

Cosmetics

In cosmetics, hydrolyzed collagen is a common ingredient in skin care products. It's believed to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and reduce wrinkles. It's also used in hair care products to promote hair growth and improve hair health.

Skin protectant. It creates a protective barrier on the skin to defend it from harmful substances, irritants, allergens, pathogens that can cause various inflammatory conditions. These products can also improve the natural skin barrier and in most cases more than one is needed to achieve an effective result.

Studies

Collagen hydrolysate is obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of collagen tissues, such as, for example, animal bones, and is generally recognized as a safe food ingredient by regulatory bodies (1).

The main characteristic of hydrolyzed collagen is its amino acid composition, which is identical to collagen, thus providing high levels of glycine and proline, two essential amino acids for the stability and regeneration of cartilages (2).

Hydrolyzed Collagen studies

Molecular formula: CO (NH₂)₂, Fe +++

CAS: 92113-31-0

References________________________________________________________________________

(1) EFSA. Opinion of the Food Safety Authority on the safety of collagen and a processing method for collagen production. Official European Food Safety Authority. 2005; 174: 1-9.
(2) Walrand S, Chiotelli E, Noirt F, Mwewa S, Lassel T. Consumption of a functional fermented milk containing collagen hydrolysate in concentration of collagen-specific amino acids in plasma. J Agric Food Chem. 2008