Skin hydrolysis is the process where collagen, a primary protein found in skin, is broken down into smaller protein fragments called peptides through the addition of water.
Hydrolysis of collagen in the skin offers several benefits:
- Improved Digestibility and Absorption: The resulting peptides have a lower molecular weight than the original collagen, making them more easily digested and absorbed by the body.
- Altered Gelling Properties: Hydrolysis can either enhance or diminish the gelling properties of collagen, which can be useful in various applications.
- Enhanced Bioavailability: Smaller peptides are thought to be more easily utilized by the body to synthesize new collagen, potentially leading to improved skin health and appearance.
In essence, skin hydrolysis is a controlled degradation process to modify the properties and bioavailability of collagen.