Marine Collagen Peptides vs. Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen: What's the Difference

Collagen supplements have gained a lot of popularity in the past few years. With more conversations happening around this beneficial protein, you may have seen different terminology being used to describe it. Names like collagen hydrolysate vs collagen peptides are often used interchangeably when discussing collagen supplementation, but understanding the meaning behind these terms is essential to knowing the best approach for your health goals. 

In this article we explore different terms such as collagen peptides vs collagen hydrolysate, and walk through their use in supplementation. Ahead, see how premium collagen supplements are formed and the best way to add them to your routine.

Understanding collagen and its forms

In order to make informed decisions around using collagen supplements for your skin and hair, it’s important to understand what collagen is and the role that it plays in our body. A vital and naturally occurring protein, collagen promotes the strength and structure of hair, skin, joints and muscles, maintaining elasticity and a youthful appearance. Collagen isn’t just a single protein – over 29 different forms have been found in the body. Types I, II & III make up 80%–90% of total collagen, with type I making up 80% of collagen in the skin¹. The rate of collagen production slows as we age – so collagen supplementation can help to maintain the same physical benefits. To make collagen supplements, the protein is usually derived from animal products such as fish waste or bovine protein. The collagen then goes through a process called ‘hydrolysation’ for optimal absorption². Vida Glow supplements like Collagen Liquid Advance use collagen peptides from fish species, a protein source rich in type I collagen for skin, nail and hair health. 

What is hydrolyzed collagen?

The process of ‘hydrolysis’ ensures that collagen is able to permeate the body for easier absorption and optimal results. In their original form, collagen molecules are too large to be absorbed at a beneficial standard. The hydrolysation process works by breaking down collagen molecules into smaller, easily absorbable peptides – helping to improve skin moisturisation, skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles³. So when we talk about collagen hydrolysate vs collagen peptides, these terms refer to the same thing. Collagen in its original state is broken down into smaller peptides through hydrolysis, improving the bioavailability into the body for an active effect. Learn more in our 'What is hydrolyzed collagen?' guide. 

What are collagen peptides?

What about collagen vs collagen peptides? If we think about collagen peptides as the finished product of the hydrolysation process, then collagen is the starting block. Before being broken down through hydrolysis, collagen is a complete protein. To make it a viable supplement, collagen sourced from marine waste or bovine products needs to be made smaller and more absorbable. 

A collagen peptide is made up of short chains of amino acids. The main three acids are called glycine, proline and hydroxyproline, which wind together to create a resistant, structurally supportive helix⁴. This formation of regenerative properties work together to provide structural support, protecting and maintaining bouncy skin, thicker hair and stronger nails⁵. Collagen peptides are fragmented forms of a whole protein and are therefore able to permeate and benefit the body. 

What is marine collagen?

The hydrolysation process isn’t the only important factor when ensuring efficacy in collagen supplementation. Where you source collagen from can also affect the bioavailability of the supplement, alongside its environmental impact and suitability. Vida Glow chooses to use marine collagen – a collagen form which has been derived from sustainably sourced fish skin. To avoid placing pressure on one species, our marine collagen is also made using discarded skin from responsibly farmed fish. The benefits of using marine collagen over other types of externally sourced collagen are numerous – in part thanks to it being rich in Type I collagen. Marine collagen can promote skin radiance⁶, smooth out fine lines7, boost skin elasticity⁸ and enhance hair thickness⁹ to name a few. 

Comparing marine collagen peptides and hydrolyzed marine collagen

Similar to other terms mentioned in this article, marine collagen peptides and hydrolyzed marine collagen refer to the same thing and can be used interchangeably. Marine collagen peptides are the resulting product of hydrolysation, which breaks down the collagen from a whole protein into absorbable peptides. There is some slight difference with terms like marine collagen vs collagen peptides, as collagen peptides can sometimes refer to protein that has been sourced from another animal product. When you see the above terms used in relation to our collagen supplements, we are referring to marine collagen. From Pro Collagen+ to Natural Marine Collagen Sachets and every supplement in between, our ingredients contain the same optimal effectiveness. 

How to choose the right collagen supplement

We’ve clarified the different terminology around collagen supplements, but how do you choose the right supplement for your goals? Whether you’re seeking anti-ageing benefits or support for damaged hair, finding your ideal supplement involves a few considerations. Different collagen products (like bovine collagen and marine collagen) include unique levels of collagen types (such as I, II & III) and may have slightly varied absorbency rates10. Certain products have more sustainable transparency as well – like our marine collagen sourced from responsibly farmed fish. Depending on their formula, individual collagen supplements may target specific health goals, such as brittle nails or wrinkles. 

Vida Glow collagen supplements have been formulated to suit your routine. Within our range, you’re able to select from liquid, powder and capsules to suit your schedule. Finally, when looking to implement products like collagen supplements into your routine, it’s always recommended to check for third-party testing, purity, and any additional ingredients – so that you can be confident you’re receiving premium support.

In Summary

The benefits of collagen supplements are exciting, but terms like ‘collagen peptides’ and ‘hydrolyzed collagen’ can make choosing a product tricky to navigate. Remember that hydrolysis breaks down large collagen molecules into smaller, absorbable peptides, meaning hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides are essentially the same. In terms of ‘marine collagen peptides’ and ‘hydrolyzed marine collagen’, both refer to the same supportive, Type I-rich collagen product. Ready to find your next beauty-boosting product? We always recommend consulting your healthcare professional when considering supplementation, alongside your individual preferences and goals.

Sources:

1. Luana Dias Campos, Valfredo de Almeida Santos Junior, Júlia Demuner Pimentel, Gabriel Lusi Fernandes Carregã, Cinthia Baú Betim Cazarin, “Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature”, Heliyon, Volume 9, Issue 4, 2023, e14961, ISSN 2405-8440, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844023021680 

2. Rajabimashhadi, Z.; Gallo, N.; Salvatore, L.; Lionetto, F. Collagen Derived from Fish Industry Waste: Progresses and Challenges. Polymers 2023, 15, 544., https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/15/3/544  

3. Bianchi FM, Angelinetta C, Rizzi G, Praticò A, Villa R. Evaluation of the Efficacy of a hydrolyzed Collagen Supplement for Improving Skin Moisturization, Smoothness, and Wrinkles. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022 Mar;15(3):48-52. PMID: 35342502; PMCID: PMC8944283., https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8944283/ 

4. Szulc P. Bone turnover: Biology and assessment tools. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018 Oct;32(5):725-738. doi: 10.1016/j.beem.2018.05.003. Epub 2018 May 26. PMID: 30449551., https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30449551/ 

5. Igielska-Kalwat,Joanna, et al. "The Use of Natural Collagen Obtained from Fish Waste in Hair Styling and Care." Polymers, vol. 14, no. 4, 2022, p. 749, MDPI, https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/4/749 

6. Rahman, Azizur, Rameesha Rehmani, Diana Gabby Pirvu, Siqi Maggie Huang, Simron Puri, and Mateo Arcos. 2024. "Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Marine Collagen: A Scientific Exploration for Delaying Skin Aging" Marine Drugs 22, no. 4: 159. https://doi.org/10.3390/md22040159 

7. Borumand, Maryam and Sibilla, Sara. "Daily consumption of the collagen supplement Pure Gold Collagen® reduces visible signs of aging." Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, vol. 12, 2019, pp. 67-75. Taylor & Francis Online, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/CIA.S65939

8. Makgobole, Mokgadi U., et al. "Cosmeceuticals from marine: the prospect of marine products in skin rejuvenation and care." Egyptian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, vol. 11, no. 1, 2024, pp. 34-40. Taylor & Francis Online, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ics.12435

9. Igielska-Kalwat,Joanna, et al. "The Use of Natural Collagen Obtained from Fish Waste in Hair Styling and Care." Polymers, vol. 14, no. 4, 2022, p. 749, MDPI, https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/4/749

10. Proksch, Ehrhard, Marcus Schunck, Vanessa Zague, Daniela Segger, Johannes Degwert, and Steffen Oesser. “Skin Physiology and Safety of Oral Supplementation with Specific Collagen Peptides in Humans.” Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, vol. 27, no. 3, 2014, pp. 113–119. https://doi.org/10.1159/000357712