What Are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen is a very large protein.
In its natural form, collagen molecules are too large to be absorbed efficiently through the digestive tract.
To make collagen easier for the body to process, manufacturers use enzymes to break collagen into smaller fragments called collagen peptides.
These smaller fragments contain amino acids such as:
• Glycine
• Proline
• Hydroxyproline
These amino acids are the building blocks used by the body to support collagen production in skin, hair, nails, connective tissue and joints
What Does Molecular Weight Mean?
Molecular weight is simply a measure of the size of a molecule.
The lower the molecular weight:
• The smaller the peptide
• The easier it may be absorbed
• The faster it can enter circulation
Many collagen supplements contain peptides ranging from approximately 2,000–5,000 Daltons (Da).
Skinade contains hydrolysed marine collagen .
The quality of the collagen source, manufacturing process, dosage, consistency of use and supporting research are all important factors. Skinade is made and ingredients sourced in the UK.
What Is Bioavailability?
Bioavailability refers to how much of a nutrient is actually absorbed and utilised by the body.
A supplement can contain excellent ingredients, but if it is poorly absorbed, the body cannot use it effectively.
Hydrolysed collagen peptides are generally considered highly bioavailable because the collagen has already been broken down into smaller fragments before consumption.
What Does Hydrolysed Mean?
Hydrolysis is a process where enzymes break large collagen proteins into smaller peptides.
Think of it like this:
A whole collagen molecule is similar to a large tree.
Hydrolysed collagen peptides are like individual branches that are much easier for the body to handle.
This is why most modern collagen supplements use hydrolysed collagen rather than raw collagen.
What Does The Research Show?
The best evidence currently suggests that daily collagen peptide supplementation may improve:
• Skin hydration
• Skin elasticity
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Skin firmness
Several randomised placebo-controlled studies have shown improvements in skin appearance after consistent use for approximately 6–12 weeks.
Results depend on:
• Age
• Hormonal status
• Protein intake
• Vitamin C status
• Smoking
• UV exposure
• Sleep quality
• Overall health
Collagen supplements do not directly become collagen in your face.
Instead, they provide collagen peptides and amino acids that may help stimulate your body’s own collagen-building processes.
Think of collagen supplements as providing the raw materials and signalling molecules needed for repair and renewal.
The biggest improvements are usually seen when collagen supplementation is combined with:
• Daily SPF
• Antioxidants such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic
• Retinoids
• Protein-rich nutrition
• Good sleep
• Professional treatments such as microneedling, radiofrequency, IPL and regenerative procedures
That is where the true skin longevity approach begins—supporting collagen from both the inside and the outside
The studies
Prior to each measurement and skin analysis, the volunteers were placed in a room with controlled temperature and humidity for 20 minutes to ensure consistent and accurate results.
The group who were given the collagen peptides showed a range of skin health improvements compared to the placebo group:
Skinade collagen peptides increase skin hydration levels by 28%.
A corneometer, designed to test hydration levels of the epidermis, was used to measure moisture levels in the skin.
Results:
After 8 weeks, 91% of the peptide group showed a significant improvement in skin hydration by up to 28% compared to the placebo group.
Skinade collagen peptides smooth fine lines by 26% and prevent deep wrinkle formation.
Polymer silicone skin prints were taken of each subject’s face at different times of measurement and studied using scientific tools designed to analyse the skin.
Results:
After 12 weeks, the number of micro-relief furrows significantly decreased by 26% in the peptide group. In the placebo group, the number of deep wrinkles increased by 30%.
Skinade collagen peptides increase skin suppleness by 19%.
A cutometer was used to measure micro-relief furrows and wrinkles as well as the time skin takes to return to its original state.
Results:
After 6 weeks, 77% of the peptide group’s micro-relief furrows decreased by 41% and after 12 weeks, 68% of the group showed a 17% decrease in total wrinkle surface.
Conclusion:
Taken orally, the collagen peptides in skinade significantly improve basic skin condition and structure. Taken on a daily basis, they help to increase skin hydration levels; improve skin tone, radiance and structure; and reduce fine lines as well as prevent the formation of deep wrinkles.
