But what exactly are collagen peptides? How do they work after ingestion? And is there a difference between hydrolysed collagen peptides and tripeptides? In this article we explain the scientific basics — so you can make informed decisions for your beauty routine.
What is a peptide?
Put simply, peptides are short chains of amino acids — the building blocks of proteins. They act as the body's “language” to build and repair cells, including skin and tissue. Collagen peptides from animal or marine sources can stimulate the body's own collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin.
The science behind absorption
When proteins are consumed, the digestive system breaks them down into smaller units — peptides and amino acids — so that they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Hydrolysed collagen peptides are already pre-decomposed, which allows for higher bioavailability and efficient absorption.
Why bioavailability is important
After taking collagen peptides, small peptide fragments can be detected in the blood within an hour. They act as messenger substances and stimulate fibroblasts — the skin cells that produce new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. The degree of hydrolysis and the size of the peptides are decisive here for clinical efficacy.
What is hydrolysis?
Collagen is a large, complex protein that the body cannot fully absorb. Through enzymatic hydrolysis it is broken down into smaller, absorbable peptide chains. This process significantly improves absorption efficiency.
The bottom line
Collagen peptides have been examined in controlled human studies — with measurable but individual effects. They act as building blocks and as biological signals for connective-tissue cells. Bettervita uses the substance class employed in those studies: 10'000 mg of hydrolysed collagen peptides per daily dose, in liquid form.