Beyond the Numbers: Why Low-Dalton Collagen Beats High Milligrams(mg) Claims
Introduction
Not all collagen is created equal — and more isn't always better. With the topic of "anti-ageing" on the rise, there has been an exponential increase in the number of collagen products in the market. Collagen is known to be the key ingredient in providing structure and elasticity to the skin, which helps in the maintenance of a "youthful" look. However, our body's natural production of collagen declines with age, resulting in the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
In attempts to maintain a youthful look even as they age, consumers have been turning to collagen supplements. Most consumers would tend to focus on the amount of collagen (mg; milligrams), however, there is a more important factor: Dalton size. In this article, we will bring you through why the molecular weight of collagen matters more than the physical weight when it comes to absorption and visible results in your skin. Follow along to navigate the increasingly saturated market of collagen products and to learn how to choose the correct collagen supplement for yourself!
What Are Milligrams (mg) and Daltons? Why Does Dalton Size Matter More?
Milligrams (mg) refer to the quantity of collagen available per dose.
Daltons (Da) refer to the molecular weight and size of the collagen peptide.
To think of it simply, mg refers to the amount of collagen you are taking in, but Da determines how much of it your body is actually digesting and absorbing it.
You might wonder — does Dalton size really matter more?
In order for food to be absorbed into our body, they must be broken down into smaller units to be able to pass through the intestinal walls. In the case of collagen, it has to be broken down into smaller peptides before absorption can take place. Peptides sized 2,000 Da or less offer superior bioavailability as it is the ideal size for absorption. However, since not all collagen are the same, different collagen produce different-sized peptides when broken down. So if you take a supplement with high mg but has a high Da as well, whatever you consume will be passed out afterwards as they cannot be absorbed. On the other hand, if you consume collagen with low Da, even if the mg is lower, the actual amount of collagen that is absorbed and available to be used by your body is likely to be higher.
Studies have shown that there has been significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles after consistent intake of low molecular weight collagen peptide over a period of time (Kim et al., 2018). With smaller collagen peptides, not only are they able to pass through cell walls with greater ease, they are also less susceptible to enzyme denaturation compared to larger peptides. This increases their bioavailability, which allows your body to absorb more of the collagen peptides without having to take more or higher doses.
Real-World Comparison: What Do Brands Use?
There are 3 main sources of collagen commonly used by brands: bovine (cattle), marine (fish), or porcine (pig). Each source offers different types of collagen and has its own set of benefits, absorption rates, and suitability based on dietary or religious preferences. Understanding the differences between them can help you choose the right collagen for your health goals and lifestyle needs.
| Feature | Bovine | Marine | Porcine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Cow skin/bones | Fish skin/scales | Pig skin/bones |
| Collagen Type | Type I & III | Mostly Type I | Type I & III |
| Absorption Rate | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Best For | Skin, joints, gut | Skin, hair, nails | Skin, gut, joints |
| Molecular Weight | ~2,000–5,000 Da | ~1,000–3,000 Da | ~2,000–5,000 Da |
| Cost | $$ | $$$ | $ |
Not all collagen supplements are upfront about their molecular size — but a few forward-thinking brands are beginning to share this crucial information. Here's a quick comparison of some notable collagen products by their Dalton size:
| Brand | Declared Dalton Size | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| MIRIQA® Collagen Reserve | ~1,000 Daltons | Ultra-small peptide size for optimal absorption. Clinically formulated to be skin-active. |
| Brand N | <3,000 Daltons | Hydrolysed marine collagen with decent absorption potential. |
| Brand B | <4,000 Daltons | Still within absorbable range, but less efficient than smaller peptides. |
How to Choose a Better Collagen Supplement
When choosing a collagen supplement, it's important to look beyond just the milligram count on the label. One of the key indicators of a high-quality product is whether it contains hydrolysed collagen or collagen peptides. These are forms of collagen that are broken down into smaller, more bioavailable fragments, making them easier for your body to absorb and utilise. A good supplement will even indicate the Dalton size of the peptides — smaller sizes, usually under 2,000 Daltons, suggest superior absorption and efficacy (Vanguard Neutraceutic, 2024).
Don't be swayed by high milligram numbers alone. A supplement boasting 10,000mg of generic collagen might sound impressive, but if the collagen is not hydrolysed or comes in a form that's hard to absorb, most of it could go to waste. Quality trumps quantity when it comes to collagen supplementation. A smaller dose of highly bioavailable collagen peptides is often more effective than a large dose of poorly processed collagen.
Lastly, look for clinically validated ingredients and research-backed claims. Reputable brands often use trademarked collagen peptides that have been tested in human studies for specific benefits — whether it's skin elasticity, joint support, or hair growth. These studies add credibility and assurance that you're taking something that actually works, not just hype. Always check for references to published studies or clinical trials in the product description or website.
By focusing on the type of collagen, its bioavailability, and clinical backing rather than just numbers on a label, you'll be in a much better position to choose a supplement that delivers real results.
Let us introduce you to MIRIQA® Collagen Reserve™ — formulated with a synergistic blend of science-based, quality ingredients for more youthful, radiant, and healthy skin.
MIRIQA® Collagen Reserve™ is made from Hydrolysed Marine Collagen, Black Crystal Roselle, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and Niacinamide to lift, firm and hydrate the skin, addressing both structural integrity and moisture retention.
Best of all, it tastes as good as it works, with a refreshing lychee flavour that makes your daily beauty ritual something to look forward to!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when it comes to collagen supplements, smaller truly is better. Low molecular weight collagen translates to better absorption, meaning your body can actually use what you're taking. This leads to more noticeable and effective results, whether you're aiming for healthier skin, stronger joints, or improved overall vitality.
Don't be misled by flashy labels and high milligram counts. Being an informed consumer means looking deeper into what really matters: the form, size, and science behind the ingredients.
Next time you shop for collagen, check the label, ask questions, and choose smarter. Your body and your skin will thank you for it.
MIRIQA® Collagen Reserve™ is currently available for purchase. WhatsApp us or head over to miriqa.com to get yours today!
Citations
Kim, D., Chung, H., Choi, J., Sakai, Y., & Lee, B. (2018). Oral intake of Low-Molecular-Weight collagen peptide improves hydration, elasticity, and wrinkling in human skin: a randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled study. Nutrients, 10(7), 826. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10070826
Vanguard Nutraceutic. (2024, December 7). The science behind ultra low Dalton Collagen: Why size matters. https://www.vanguardnutraceuticals.co.uk/post/the-science-behind-ultra-low-dalton-collagen-why-size-matters
