Collagen supplements claim to restore lost collagen, but their effectiveness depends on how well they are absorbed and utilised in the body. Traditional hydrolysed collagen peptides consist of broken-down protein chains that require further enzymatic digestion before they can be absorbed and incorporated into tissues.

In contrast, collagen tripeptides are composed of specific three-amino acid sequences (Gly-Pro-Hyp) that can be directly absorbed into the bloodstream without additional breakdown (Ohara et al., 2007). Some studies suggest that CTP is four to ten times more bioavailable than standard collagen peptides (Yamamoto et al., 2016).

A study published in The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that collagen tripeptides were detectable in the bloodstream within 30 minutes, whereas normal collagen peptides took longer and were less efficiently absorbed (Ohara et al., 2007). 

Do Collagen Tripeptides Offer Better Health Benefits? 

One of the most visible effects of collagen loss is skin aging, leading to dryness, reduced elasticity, and increased wrinkle formation. Several studies have examined the effects of collagen supplementation on skin health.  A twelve-week randomised controlled trial published in Nutrients found that collagen tripeptides significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity compared to standard collagen peptides (Kim et al., 2018). 

The Journal of Functional Foods reported that CTP supplementation reduced wrinkles and improved skin texture within just four weeks, while normal collagen took longer to show noticeable results (Ohara et al., 2010). However, many clinical trials on collagen supplementation are short-term, typically spanning only eight to twelve weeks. The long-term effects of continued collagen use remain uncertain, and individual responses to collagen supplementation vary depending on factors such as diet, genetics, and overall skin health.

Collagen synthesis is heavily dependent on other nutrients such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which play a crucial role in collagen stability and production (Pullar et al., 2017). 

Beyond skin health, collagen plays an essential role in maintaining cartilage, tendons, and bone structure.  As collagen levels decline, joint stiffness and osteoporosis become more prevalent. A study in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that collagen tripeptides significantly reduced joint pain and improved flexibility in individuals with osteoarthritis compared to standard collagen peptides (Moskowitz, 2000). A study in BioFactors suggested that CTP increased bone mineral density and stimulated osteoblast activity, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis (Yamamoto et al., 2016). However, while collagen may contribute to joint and bone health, it is not the sole factor. Other nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium, play a crucial role in maintaining bone integrity (Katsumata et al., 2009). Furthermore, studies comparing collagen tripeptides with other joint-supporting supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin are still lacking. 

Collagen has also been associated with improved wound healing and muscle recovery. Research suggests that collagen tripeptides may accelerate tissue regeneration. A study published in Wound Repair and Regeneration found that collagen tripeptides enhanced wound healing by promoting fibroblast migration and collagen synthesis (Shigemura et al., 2009). While these findings suggest potential benefits, wound healing and muscle recovery depend on a variety of factors, including protein intake, hydration, and overall nutrition.