Hydrolyzed Collagen VS Collagen Peptides

If you have ever stood in the supplement aisle or scrolled through Amazon looking for a collagen powder, you have likely encountered a confusing dilemma. One tub is labeled “Hydrolyzed Collagen,” while the one next to it boasts “Collagen Peptides.”

Which one absorbs better? Which one is better for your skin or joints?

The Short Answer (For Quick Answers)

There is no difference.

Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides are two different names for the exact same ingredient. Both terms refer to collagen that has undergone a process called enzymatic hydrolysis to break down long protein chains into tiny, absorbable particles.

• Hydrolyzed Collagen refers to the process (how it was made).
• Collagen Peptides refers to the end product (what it is).

You can use these terms interchangeably. They offer the exact same bioavailability, solubility, and health benefits.

The Science: What Does “Hydrolyzed” Mean?

To understand why the names differ, we have to look at the chemistry.

Native collagen (the kind found in cow hide or fish scales) is a triple-helix structure. It is incredibly tough and cannot be absorbed by the human body in its raw state. If you ate raw cow hide, your body wouldn’t be able to digest the collagen effectively.

To make it a supplement, manufacturers use Enzymatic Hydrolysis. This process uses water and enzymes to “cut” those tough protein chains into tiny pieces.

1. The Process: The collagen is hydrolyzed (broken down).
2. The Result: The long chains become short chains of amino acids.
3. The Name: These short chains are defined in chemistry as “peptides.”

Therefore, the result of hydrolyzed collagen is collagen peptides.

Comparison Table: Collagen vs. Peptides vs. Gelatin

While “Hydrolyzed” and “Peptides” are the same, consumers often confuse them with Gelatin. Here is the real difference:

Why Do Brands Use Different Names?

If they are the same thing, why doesn’t the industry just pick one name? The answer lies in Marketing and Target Audience.

1. The “Science” Angle (Hydrolyzed)

Older supplement brands or companies that sell to athletes often use the term Hydrolyzed Collagen. It sounds technical and emphasizes the processing method. It reassures the buyer that the product is not raw and will digest easily.

2. The “Beauty” Angle (Peptides)

The beauty and skincare industry prefers the term Collagen Peptides. The word “Peptide” is a buzzword in the anti-aging world. It sounds more premium, modern, and scientific. Brands targeting women for skin elasticity and wrinkle reduction almost exclusively use “Peptides.”

3. SEO and Keywords

Smart brands often use both. You might see “Collagen Peptides” in big bold letters on the front of the jar, but the ingredient list on the back will say “100% Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen.” This ensures they capture customers searching for either term.

Proven Benefits: What Can They Do For You?

Regardless of whether the label says “Hydrolyzed” or “Peptides,” the benefits are identical because the amino acid profile (Glycine, Proline, Hydroxyproline) is the same.

• Skin Elasticity & Hydration: Studies have shown that taking 2.5g to 10g of collagen peptides daily can improve skin moisture and elasticity, potentially reducing the depth of wrinkles.
• Joint Pain Relief: For athletes or those with osteoarthritis, collagen helps stimulate the production of cartilage matrix, reducing joint pain and stiffness.
• Bone Density: Collagen provides the structural framework for calcium to calcify bones. Supplementation may help prevent bone loss, particularly in post-menopausal women.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Quality Product

Don’t worry about the name on the front. Instead, turn the bottle around and check the Supplement Facts.

1. Check the Source

• Bovine (Cow): Rich in Types I and III. Great for skin, hair, nails, and gut health.
• Marine (Fish): Mostly Type I. Often preferred for skin health and absorbs slightly faster due to smaller particle size.
• Chicken: Rich in Type II. Specifically best for cartilage and joint issues.

2. Check the Ingredients

The ingredient list should be short. Ideally, it should just say: “Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides” or “Bovine Collagen Hydrolysate.” Avoid products with added sugars, fillers, or artificial flavors unless you specifically want a flavored drink.

3. Look for “Grass-Fed” or “Wild-Caught”

To ensure the animal wasn’t raised with hormones or antibiotics, look for “Grass-Fed, Pasture-Raised” (for bovine) or “Wild-Caught” (for marine).

FAQs

References

1. On the definition and processing (Hydrolyzed vs. Peptides): León-López, A., et al. (2019). Hydrolyzed Collagen—Sources and Applications. Molecules. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6891674/
2. On Skin Health Benefits (Elasticity & Wrinkles): Proksch, E., et al. (2014). Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides has beneficial effects on human skin physiology: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23949208/
3. On Joint Pain & Athlete Recovery: Clark, K. L., et al. (2008). 24-Week study on the use of collagen hydrolysate as a dietary supplement in athletes with activity-related joint pain. Current Medical Research and Opinion. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18416885/
4. On Bioavailability and Absorption: Skov, K., et al. (2019). Enzymatic Hydrolysis of a Collagen Hydrolysate Enhances Postprandial Absorption Rate—A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566836/