Hydrolyzed collagen is a form of natural collagen that has been broken down into smaller protein fragments, known as collagen peptides, through a process called hydrolysis. This process reduces the molecular size of collagen, increases its solubility in water, and makes it easier to use in oral supplements.
So what does “double hydrolyzed collagen,” which we are seeing more and more frequently on products, mean? The term double hydrolyzed refers to the hydrolysis process being applied in two stages to break collagen down into smaller peptide structures. However, there is an important distinction here: “Hydrolyzed collagen” is a widely recognized and defined concept in scientific literature, while the term “double hydrolyzed” does not define a specific molecular weight or a clinically proven, distinct class of collagen on its own.
Therefore, when choosing collagen, you should not look solely at the terms “single” or “double hydrolyzed”; you should consider the source of the collagen, its peptide structure, molecular weight, daily dosage, collagen types, and the overall formulation of the product together.
In this article, we will cover in detail what hydrolyzed collagen is, how the hydrolysis process works, what double hydrolyzed collagen means, how it relates to collagen peptides, and what features to consider when choosing collagen.
What Is Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Hydrolyzed collagen is a form of collagen protein that has been broken down into smaller peptide chains through enzymatic or controlled chemical processes.
Natural collagen has a very large and complex protein structure. The basic structure of a collagen molecule features a characteristic triple helix formed by three polypeptide chains. While the molecular weight of a natural collagen molecule is defined in scientific literature as approximately 300 kDa, the collagen peptides produced through hydrolysis can have much lower molecular weights.
A comprehensive review published in the journal Molecules in 2019 defined hydrolyzed collagen as a structure generally composed of low-molecular-weight peptides around 3–6 kDa.
Thanks to the hydrolysis process, large collagen proteins are broken down into smaller pieces. This change can affect:
- solubility in water,
- the product’s ability to mix into beverages,
- processing during digestion,
- the physical and functional properties of the peptides
.
To learn more about the primary functions of collagen in the body and the different types of collagen, you can review our What Is Collagen? What Does Collagen Do? content.
What Does Hydrolysis Mean?
Hydrolysis is the process by which a large molecule is broken down into smaller pieces through chemical or enzymatic reactions involving water.
In collagen production, the main goal is to obtain smaller collagen peptides by breaking specific bonds in long protein chains.
This process can often be carried out using proteolytic enzymes. Different enzymes such as papain, pepsin, and alcalase have been reported in scientific studies to be used in collagen hydrolysis.
However, the enzyme used alone does not determine the result. During production:
- temperature,
- pH,
- processing time,
- the enzyme used,
- starting material,
- degree of hydrolysis
and many other variables can affect the size and properties of the resulting peptides.
Therefore, the fact that two different products both state “hydrolyzed collagen” does not mean that their peptide distributions are identical.
What Does Double Hydrolyzed Collagen Mean?
Double hydrolyzed collagen refers to a production approach in which the hydrolysis process is applied in two stages to break collagen down into peptides.
In the first hydrolysis stage, large protein chains are broken down into smaller peptides. In the second stage, depending on the production method, an additional hydrolysis process may be applied to these peptide structures.
On Kiperin’s collagen types page, double hydrolyzed technology is also defined as the application of the hydrolysis process in two stages.
Here is the point to keep in mind:
The term “double hydrolyzed” is not a standard molecular weight category in scientific literature on its own.
In other words, a product being double hydrolyzed does not automatically mean “X Daltons,” “twice the absorption,” or “twice as effective.”
To evaluate these, the product’s production process and the resulting peptide profile must be examined separately.
Therefore, double hydrolysis should be viewed most accurately as a production technology aimed at breaking collagen down into peptides in more advanced stages.
What Is the Difference Between Single Hydrolyzed and Double Hydrolyzed Collagen?
The main difference lies in the production stage applied.
| Feature | Hydrolyzed Collagen | Double Hydrolyzed Collagen |
| Basic process | Collagen is broken down into peptides through hydrolysis | Hydrolysis is applied in two stages |
| Goal | Reduce large protein structures | Further process the peptide structure |
| Resulting structure | Collagen peptides | Collagen peptides |
| Molecular weight | Varies by production | Varies by production |
| Solubility | Generally higher than natural collagen | Depends on the production method |
| Absorption | Peptide structure is important | A definitive rate cannot be drawn from the term “double” alone |
| Scientific classification | An established term | Not a universally standardized, distinct collagen class |
Therefore, it would not be correct to reach the absolute conclusion that “double hydrolyzed is always better than single hydrolyzed.”
When evaluating the true properties of the product, the molecular weight of the peptides, the collagen source used, and the amount of collagen in the daily serving should also be considered alongside the production technology.
Why Is Molecular Weight Important in Collagen?
Molecular weight is one of the measures used to express the size of a molecule. When it comes to collagen, the hydrolysis process converts the large protein structure into smaller peptides.
While scientific reviews state that the molecular weight of natural collagen is approximately 285–300 kDa, it is reported that a significant portion of hydrolyzed collagen can have much lower molecular weights, such as approximately 3–6 kDa.
This change in molecular size can affect the solubility and digestive properties of collagen in particular.
However, a simple equation should not be drawn here that “the smaller the molecule, the better the product.”
The properties of collagen peptides depend not only on their size but also on:
- their amino acid sequences,
- the collagen source,
- the degree of hydrolysis,
- the enzyme used in production,
- the peptide distribution
.
A systematic review published in 2024 also reported that different enzymatic processes can change the biological properties of collagens and that lower-molecular-weight collagens may offer advantages in terms of bioavailability in tissues.
Therefore, it is a more accurate approach to evaluate collagen products not solely based on a single technological term on the packaging, but through the entire formulation.
Are Collagen Peptides and Hydrolyzed Collagen the Same Thing?
In dietary supplements, the terms “collagen peptides” and “hydrolyzed collagen” are often used to describe the same product group.
This is because the hydrolysis process breaks collagen proteins down into small peptide chains.
To put it simply:
Natural collagen → hydrolysis → collagen peptides
.
Therefore, it is normal for the term “hydrolyzed collagen peptides” to be used together on a product label.
The word peptide defines amino acid chains that are shorter than the protein itself. One of the main goals of hydrolyzing collagen is to create these smaller peptide structures.
How Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Processed in the Body?
When hydrolyzed collagen taken orally reaches the digestive system, it is further processed by digestive enzymes. It has been shown that amino acids, as well as some small collagen-derived peptides, can enter the circulation.
Studies conducted in humans have observed an increase in peptides containing hydroxyproline in the blood after consuming collagen hydrolysates.
Some collagen-derived peptides, especially Pro-Hyp (proline-hydroxyproline), have drawn attention in research.
In a 2005 study conducted with healthy volunteers, it was determined that the levels of certain collagen-derived peptides in the blood rose within approximately 1–2 hours after consuming gelatin hydrolysate.
These findings show that hydrolyzed collagen is not broken down into individual amino acids alone after digestion; some short peptide structures can also enter the circulation.
However, this does not mean that a specific brand or every product labeled “double hydrolyzed” has the same bioavailability.
What Is the Difference Between Hydrolyzed Collagen and Regular Collagen?
The main difference between natural collagen and hydrolyzed collagen is the molecular structure.
Natural collagen is a large protein that largely preserves its triple helix structure. In hydrolyzed collagen, however, this structure has been processed and converted into much smaller protein fragments.
| Feature | Natural Collagen | Hydrolyzed Collagen |
| Molecular structure | Large and complex | Composed of small peptides |
| Triple helix | Largely preserved | Broken down |
| Molecular weight | Approximately 300 kDa | Mostly much lower |
| Solubility in water | More limited | Generally higher |
| Use in supplements | More limited | Very common |
| Mixing into beverages | May be more difficult | May be easier |
One of the main reasons the hydrolyzed form is frequently used in orally taken collagen supplements is these properties it provides in terms of use and solubility.
Are Gelatin and Hydrolyzed Collagen the Same Thing?
No. Although gelatin and hydrolyzed collagen are related, they are not completely the same.
Gelatin is produced through the partial breakdown of collagen and has the ability to form a gel when it comes into contact with liquid. Hydrolyzed collagen, however, is composed of more advanced peptide fragments and generally does not form a gel.
Therefore, mixing hydrolyzed collagen powders into beverages such as water, coffee, or smoothies is easier than with gelatin.
The “fast-dissolving” property used in collagen products is partly due to this smaller peptide structure.
Can Hydrolyzed Collagen Be Type 1, Type 2, or Type 3?
Yes. However, “hydrolyzed” and “collagen type” are different concepts.
The term hydrolyzed describes how the product has been processed.
Terms such as Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 5, or Type 10 indicate the structural type of collagen.
For example, a product can be formulated as:
- Type 1 and Type 3 hydrolyzed collagen,
- multi-type collagen,
- collagen containing Types 1-2-3-5-10
.
Therefore, there is no single answer to the question “What type of hydrolyzed collagen is it?” The hydrolysis process can be applied to different collagen types.
To explore different collagen types and product forms together, you can visit the Kiperin collagen types page.
What Sources Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Obtained From?
Hydrolyzed collagen can be produced from different animal sources.
The most common sources are:
- Bovine collagen
- Fish and other marine-derived collagen
- Chicken collagen
- Porcine collagen
The source can affect the resulting amino acid profile and collagen types.
For example, while Type 1 and Type 3 collagen are common in bovine materials, cartilage sources may have a different profile in terms of Type 2 collagen.
In addition to the collagen source, the production and purification processes also affect the properties of the final product.
Furthermore, true collagen protein is animal-derived. Most products marketed as “plant-based collagen” are not direct collagen proteins, but rather formulations that provide nutrients that play a role in the body’s normal collagen production.
Have the Effects of Hydrolyzed Collagen on the Skin Been Studied?
Yes. A significant portion of clinical research on oral hydrolyzed collagen has focused on parameters such as skin hydration, elasticity, and the appearance of wrinkles.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2021 evaluated 19 studies and a total of 1,125 participants. The pooled analysis reported positive results in terms of skin hydration and elasticity in groups using hydrolyzed collagen compared to the placebo.
Another meta-analysis published in 2023, which evaluated 26 randomized controlled studies, also reported positive results between oral hydrolyzed collagen use and skin hydration and elasticity. However, researchers noted that there were different products, sources, and study designs among the studies, and that larger and more standardized research was needed.
Therefore, it is not correct to interpret the results as meaning that all collagen products will provide the same result for everyone.
For more information about collagen’s role on the skin, you can review our Collagen’s Effects and Benefits for the Skin content.
Have the Effects of Hydrolyzed Collagen on Joints Been Studied?
Collagen supplements have also been studied in terms of joint function and especially knee osteoarthritis.
A current systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2024 evaluated 11 randomized controlled studies and a total of 870 participants. The pooled analysis reported that collagen-based supplements were associated with positive results in terms of pain and function scores in participants with knee osteoarthritis.
However, because these studies may include different collagen types and formulations, the results should not be interpreted as “every hydrolyzed collagen product treats joint problems.”
Dietary supplements are not used for the treatment of diseases. For persistent complaints such as joint pain or limited mobility, you should consult a healthcare professional.
Does Double Hydrolyzed Collagen Provide Better Absorption?
The answer to this question cannot be given definitively without knowing the technical specifications of the product.
Generally, the solubility and digestive properties of the low-molecular-weight peptides obtained through collagen hydrolysis differ from natural collagen. The molecular weight of the peptides is also one of the factors considered in terms of bioavailability.
However, the fact that “double hydrolyzed” is written on the product label alone does not prove a specific absorption rate.
For example, two different double hydrolyzed products can be produced using:
- different raw materials,
- different enzymes,
- different hydrolysis times,
- different molecular weight distributions
.
Therefore, a statement such as “double hydrolyzed = twice the absorption” is not scientifically correct.
Hydrolysis technology is one of the valuable criteria in choosing collagen, but it is not the only criterion.
What Else Should Be Considered When Choosing Collagen Besides Hydrolysis?
When comparing collagen products, it is more meaningful to evaluate the following features together:
- Amount of collagen in the daily serving
- Collagen source used
- Collagen types
- Hydrolyzed peptide structure
- Other ingredients of the product
- Sugar and added ingredients
- Production standards
- Label transparency
- Powder, capsule, or sachet form
- Ease of daily use
For example, one of the main differences between powder and capsule collagen is the amount of collagen that can be taken in a single serving. To examine the differences between these two forms in detail, you can review our Powder Collagen or Capsule Collagen? guide.
Kiperin Double Hydrolyzed Collagen Products
Kiperin's product range includes different forms in which double hydrolyzed collagen peptides are used.
Kiperin Classic Collagen is one of the powder options containing double hydrolyzed collagen peptides that can be used by mixing it into beverages in the daily routine.
In Kiperin 100% Pure Double Hydrolyzed Collagen product, one scoop provides 10 grams of collagen peptides and is presented in powder form.
Double Hydrolyzed Multi Collagen Capsule combines hydrolyzed collagen with additional ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, zinc, vitamin D3, biotin, and selenium for those who prefer the capsule form.
To compare the powder, capsule, flavored, and different ingredient combination options among Kiperin products, you can review the collagen products category.
The term “double hydrolyzed” should not be used as the sole decision criterion in product selection; the daily serving, formula, and purpose of use should also be evaluated together.
How Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Used?
Hydrolyzed collagen supplements are mostly presented in:
- powder,
- capsule,
- sachet,
- ready-to-drink product
forms.
Powder collagens can be mixed with water, coffee, smoothies, or other beverages depending on the recommendations on the product label. Capsule products are generally consumed with water.
Since the amount of use may vary depending on the product's content, the daily serving information directly on the label should be taken as the basis.
Since there is insufficient evidence that a specific time of day is superior to another in collagen use, a time of use that is suitable for the daily routine and sustainable can be preferred.
What Should Be Considered When Using Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Since collagen products can be produced from different animal sources, it is important for people with allergies to check the source of the product.
For example, in a product of fish origin, an evaluation must be made for people with fish allergies.
In special situations such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, chronic illness, or regular medication use, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any food supplement.
When choosing a supplement, the daily serving information of the product should not be exceeded, and the product should not be used as a substitute for normal nutrition.
Conclusion: What Is the Difference Between Hydrolyzed and Double Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Hydrolyzed collagen is a form of natural collagen protein that has been broken down into smaller peptide structures. The hydrolysis process reduces the molecular structure of collagen and changes its physical properties, especially its solubility in water.
Double hydrolyzed collagen refers to the application of this hydrolysis process in two stages.
However, “double hydrolyzed” is not a scientifically independent and standardized new type of collagen. This term alone does not guarantee a specific molecular weight or “double absorption.”
Therefore, the following distinction is important when choosing collagen:
Collagen type indicates which collagen structure the product contains;
hydrolysis indicates how the collagen is processed;
and molecular weight indicates the size of the resulting peptides.
To make a good evaluation, these three concepts must be considered together with the daily collagen amount and product formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrolyzed Collagen
What Does Hydrolyzed Collagen Mean?
Hydrolyzed collagen is a form of large collagen proteins that have been broken down into smaller peptide chains through the hydrolysis process. It is one of the collagen forms commonly used in supplement products.
What Does Double Hydrolyzed Mean?
Double hydrolyzed refers to the application of the hydrolysis process in two stages. The goal is to break down the collagen protein into more advanced peptides. However, “double hydrolyzed” alone does not define a specific Dalton value or absorption percentage.
Is Double Hydrolyzed Collagen Better?
It is not possible to say that a product is better than another by looking only at the “double hydrolyzed” term. Peptide size, daily collagen amount, source, collagen types, product formulation, and production quality should be evaluated together.
Are Collagen Peptides and Hydrolyzed Collagen the Same?
These two terms are often used interchangeably in supplement products. This is because the collagen protein turns into smaller collagen peptides as a result of hydrolysis.
How Many Daltons Should Hydrolyzed Collagen Be?
Hydrolyzed collagen does not have a single molecular weight; the product contains a peptide distribution. Scientific reviews mention low molecular weight peptides in the range of approximately 3–6 kDa for many hydrolyzed collagens. However, lower or different distributions can also be obtained with the production method used.
What Type Is Hydrolyzed Collagen?
“Hydrolyzed” is not a collagen type, but a production method. Different collagen types such as Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 5, or Type 10 can be found in hydrolyzed peptide form.
Should Hydrolyzed Collagen Be Powder or Capsule?
Neither form is superior for everyone. While powder products have the advantage of being able to offer a higher amount of collagen in a single serving, capsules can be more practical in terms of use and portability. The choice can be made according to daily use habits and the product's content.
Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Soluble in Water?
Hydrolyzed collagen has higher water solubility compared to natural collagen. However, the dissolution rate may vary depending on the peptide structure, product formulation, and the liquid used.
Is Hydrolyzed Collagen the Same as Gelatin?
No. Gelatin is a partially broken down form of collagen and can form a gel. Hydrolyzed collagen, on the other hand, is broken down into smaller peptides and generally disperses more easily in water, while its gel-forming property is significantly reduced.
Is Hydrolyzed Collagen Used Every Day?
The amount and frequency of use may vary depending on the product. Therefore, the daily serving and usage instructions specified on the product label should be taken as the basis.
References
- León-López A. et al. Hydrolyzed Collagen—Sources and Applications. Molecules, 2019.
- Aguirre-Cruz G. et al. Collagen Hydrolysates for Skin Protection: Oral Administration and Topical Formulation. Antioxidants, 2020.
- Sato K. The presence of food-derived collagen peptides in human body—structure and biological activity. Food & Function, 2017.
- Iwai K. et al. Identification of food-derived collagen peptides in human blood after oral ingestion of gelatin hydrolysates. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2005.
- de Miranda RB. et al. Effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Dermatology, 2021.
- Pu S. et al. Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients, 2023.
- Effect of collagen supplementation on knee osteoarthritis: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials, 2024.
- Hydrolyzed collagen: Exploring its applications in the food and beverage industries and assessing its impact on human health – A comprehensive review, 2024.
This content is for informational purposes; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Food supplements are not a substitute for normal nutrition.
