Is Hydrolyzed Collagen a Miracle Cure?

Hydrolyzed collagen appears in many items and there are numerous supplements available. But what are the real benefits of hydrolyzed collagen?

Collagen is a protein present in all animals, including people. It forms the basis of connective tissues like skin, tendons, cartilage, internal organs, and bones.

Hydrolyzed collagen means the protein has been broken into smaller, more easily absorbed pieces. These fragments are incorporated into products intended to support everything from surface skin health to internal joint comfort.

Claim 1: It may ease joint pain

Joint cartilage is rich in collagen, and loss of collagen is a common factor behind joint discomfort, so it’s reasonable to think collagen could relieve joint pain.

Research indicates that hydrolyzed collagen (also called collagen hydrolysate) can help fortify joints and alleviate pain related to conditions such as osteoarthritis.

Bear in mind, though, that most trials demonstrating improvements in joint pain used relatively large doses of collagen hydrolysate supplements.

It remains uncertain whether simply eating more collagen-rich foods — for example, tougher cuts of meat — would produce the same benefits.

Claim 2: It may help against osteoporosis

Although research is still emerging, some studies suggest hydrolyzed collagen could have a role in preventing and treating osteoporosis.

For instance, a trial in postmenopausal women reported that taking 5 grams of collagen peptides daily for a year increased bone mineral density and improved markers signaling greater bone formation and reduced bone breakdown.

Further studies are necessary to find out whether other collagen sources or different formulations deliver comparable effects.

Claim 3: It can reduce wrinkles

Since skin structure relies heavily on collagen, it’s logical to expect collagen supplements might support skin health. The benefit depends on how the collagen is processed and how the body utilizes it.

Some evidence shows that taking collagen supplements can improve certain signs of skin aging.

One study with 64 participants found that 1 gram of collagen peptides daily for 12 weeks significantly lessened wrinkle depth and enhanced skin hydration and elasticity versus a placebo.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also authorized collagen implants for smoothing wrinkles and treating acne scarring.

Claims that topical collagen creams will rebuild skin structure lack strong scientific backing.

Safety first

The FDA has pulled a number of hydrolyzed collagen products from the market because companies made misleading claims about their effects. In some cases, labels promised remedies that actually require medical care, the FDA noted in a warning.

As with any supplement or cosmetic, scrutinize product claims. Cosmetics don’t need premarket approval like prescription drugs do, but the FDA still oversees these items and can act against companies that misrepresent or mislabel products.

Be wary of any product advertising itself as a magic, instant, or miracle solution.