Which collagen powder is best for the skin? An overview
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the skin. With increasing age, the collagen composition of the skin changes – a process that is being intensively researched in science. In this article, we provide an overview of the different types of collagen and what research says about them.
Important note: For collagen as an ingredient, there are currently no approved health claims according to EU Regulation No. 1924/2006 (HCVO). The following information provides an overview of the current state of scientific research and does not constitute a promise of cure.
Collagen in the Skin – Basics
Human skin largely consists of collagen, particularly types I and III. These collagen types form the structural framework of the dermis and are responsible for the mechanical properties of the skin. Collagen synthesis in the skin is a complex biological process that depends on various factors.
Overview of Collagen Types
Type I – the most common skin collagen
Collagen Type I is the most abundant collagen in the skin. It makes up the majority of the collagen content in the dermis and is the subject of numerous scientific investigations.
Type III – often together with Type I
Collagen Type III often occurs together with Type I and is also found in the dermis. Many collagen powders combine Type I and Type III.
Hydrolyzed Collagen vs. Collagen Tripeptide
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides) is formed by enzymatic cleavage of collagen into smaller peptide chains. These can be detected in blood plasma after oral intake (Iwai et al., 2005).
Collagen Tripeptide (~500 Dalton)
Collagen tripeptide is a particularly small form – with a molecular size of approx. 500 Dalton, it is one of the smallest available collagen peptides. The sequence Glycine-Proline-Hydroxyproline (Gly-Pro-Hyp) is characteristic of collagen and is being researched for its bioavailability.
What does research say?
Proksch et al. (2014) published a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 69 women in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. After 8 weeks of collagen peptide intake, changes in measured skin parameters were observed. The study was partly co-financed by a manufacturer – further independent research is needed.
Important: The EFSA has not yet approved any health claims for collagen. All study results are therefore purely scientific in nature.
What to look for when choosing?
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Collagen type: Types I & III are the types found in the skin
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Processing degree: Hydrolyzed or Tripeptide (~500 Dalton)
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Origin: Fish collagen (marine) or bovine collagen
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Quality: Made in Germany, laboratory tested, without fillers
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Purity: Without artificial flavors, colorings or additives
Our Collagen Powders for the Skin
All our collagen products contain Type I & III, are made in Germany and are laboratory tested:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.
