Collagen Amino Acids

Good

Humectant

Collagen Amino Acids at a glance

  • Help hydrate skin
  • Serve as humectants
  • Can help improve skin health
  • Created through the hydrolysis of collagen

Collagen Amino Acids description

Collagen amino acids help hydrate skin due to their humectant nature. They’re created through the hydrolysis (breaking down with water) of collagen proteins, which results in a high amount of a single amino acid, hydroxyproline; however, other amino acids, like glycine and proline, are also present in smaller amounts. Hydroxyproline serves to increase skin’s moisture levels and smoothness. Research also suggests that topically applied hydroxyproline and glycine (derived from fish collagen) can have a positive impact on healthy skin cell maturation. Collagen amino acids may be synthetic or animal-derived. Collagen amino acids are also used in the supplement industry in pill, gummy and powder forms. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reviewed collagen amino acids and determined them safe for use in cosmetics at current concentration levels (0.0003%-6.0%). Those who are vegan should check with the brand to ensure the collagen amino acids they’re using are not animal-derived.

Collagen Amino Acids references

  • Current Issues in Molecular Biology, March 2024, pages 2,043-2,070 (LINK)
  • Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, May-June 2019, pages 1,877-1,883 (LINK)
  • International Journal of Toxicology, Nov-Dec 2014, pages 5S-12S
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, February 2013, pages 43-49
  • Amino Acids, June 2012, pages 2,481-2,489

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.