Glossary

Salmon collagen

Also known as: Hydrolyzed collagen, marine collagen

In short

Salmon collagen is collagen from salmon, broken down into smaller pieces (hydrolysed) so it can be used in skincare. On the skin it helps hold in moisture, so skin feels softer and looks smoother and plumper. It appears on labels as hydrolyzed collagen.

Does collagen in skincare add collagen to your skin?

Not directly. Collagen in skincare works mainly on the surface. It does not replace the collagen your skin makes, but it helps skin hold on to moisture, which is why skin feels softer and looks more cushioned.

Why salmon?

Fish is a common source of collagen for skincare. KAHI uses low-molecular salmon collagen, broken into small pieces, alongside salmon PDRN and proteoglycan. KAHI calls the three its complete collagen trio.

How do you find it on a label?

Look for hydrolyzed collagen in the ingredient list. The ingredient name does not say where the collagen comes from, so check the brand's own description.

Where you'll find it

Multi-useWrinkle Bounce Multi Balm 4.7 (507)

Face, eyes, smile lines, lips and neck

£24.99

See the full ingredients
Eye careEye Balm 4.8 (214)

A lighter formula for the eye area

£24.99

See the full ingredients
Face mistCollagen Mist Ampoule

Cooling collagen mist, over or under make-up

£37.99

See the full ingredients

Frequently asked questions

Is salmon collagen vegan?

No. It comes from fish, so skincare with salmon collagen is not vegan.

Is salmon collagen suitable for sensitive skin?

Collagen is generally well tolerated in skincare. As with any new product, try it on a small patch of skin first. If you have a fish allergy, check with your GP or pharmacist before use.

Sources and references

  1. Collagen hydrolysates for skin protection: oral administration and topical formulation. Aguirre-Cruz G. et al., Antioxidants, 2020.
  2. CosIng database of cosmetic ingredients: Hydrolyzed Collagen. European Commission.