What Is Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is a modified form of collagen, the protein that helps give skin and hair their structure. In this ingredient, collagen has been broken down into smaller pieces (hydrolyzed) so it can mix easily with water. These tiny collagen pieces are then linked with undecylenic acid, a fatty acid from castor oil, and balanced with either sodium or triethanolamine (TEA) to create a salt that stays stable in a wide range of formulas.
The idea of hydrolyzing collagen dates back to the mid-20th century when scientists looked for ways to make animal-derived collagen dissolve in water for wound dressings and later for beauty creams. Adding undecylenic acid was a later step, first explored in the 1990s, to give the protein a mild cleansing edge and an affinity for hair and skin. Today most manufacturers start with fish or bovine collagen, use enzymes to chop it into short chains, react it with undecylenic acid, then neutralize the mix with sodium hydroxide or TEA before spray-drying it into a fine powder.
You will come across Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen in lightweight facial moisturizers, anti-aging serums, rinse-off cleansers, sheet masks, leave-in hair conditioners, sulfate-free shampoos and even in refreshing facial mists where it helps the formula feel silky and smooth.
Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient brings several helpful functions to skin and hair products
- Antistatic – reduces the static charge that can make hair flyaway or leave skin feeling tight so strands stay manageable and fabrics do not cling to the face
- Cleansing – offers gentle surfactant action that lifts away oil and dirt without stripping natural moisture making it ideal for mild face washes and micellar waters
- Hair Conditioning – forms a light film along the hair shaft that smooths rough cuticles adds softness and boosts shine
- Skin Conditioning – helps skin feel hydrated and supple by attracting water and leaving behind a silky touch that can make fine lines look less obvious
Who Can Use Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily because its lightweight protein fragments add hydration without leaving a greasy film. People with very sensitive or allergy-prone skin may still want to proceed carefully since the material originates from animal collagen which can trigger rare protein allergies. Acne-prone users usually do fine because the ingredient has a very low comedogenic profile yet its undecylenic fatty portion can occasionally feel too rich for some who are highly reactive to fatty acids.
Because the collagen is sourced from fish or bovine skins it is not suitable for vegans or strict vegetarians. Anyone following a plant-only lifestyle should look for products labeled with plant-derived or synthetic collagen alternatives instead.
Topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is considered low risk as the molecule is too large to penetrate deeply, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing women should confirm suitability with their doctor before adding any new skincare product.
Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also works harmoniously alongside common actives like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and mild surfactants.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen vary from person to person. The issues below are only potential effects and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Allergic reaction – redness, itching or swelling due to sensitivity to animal collagen proteins
- Mild skin irritation – a stinging or burning feel if skin is extremely sensitive or already compromised
- Contact dermatitis – patchy rash or bumps after repeated exposure in those with specific ingredient intolerance
- Breakouts – occasional clogged pores or acne flare in users who react to fatty acids or rich films
- Eye discomfort – transient stinging or tearing if the ingredient accidentally gets into the eyes in cleansers or mists
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 Collagen fragments dissolve readily in water so they do not sit heavily on skin and the undecylenoyl portion is present as a salt that rinses away easily. Together these traits make the molecule unlikely to clog pores although a very small risk remains for people who react to fatty residues, which is why the score is not a perfect zero.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin in most formulas formulated at typical use levels of 0.5-2 percent.
The final comedogenic impact depends on the whole product. Thick creams loaded with occlusive oils can still cause bumps even if this single ingredient is low risk.
Summary
Sodium/Tea-Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen acts as a mild cleanser, antistatic agent and conditioning booster for both skin and hair. Its tiny collagen peptides attract water and form a whisper-thin film that leaves surfaces silky smooth while the undecylenoyl tail gives a touch of surfactant power that helps lift away dirt.
It is not the most common name on labels yet its presence is growing in sulfate-free shampoos, lightweight moisturizers and K-beauty style essences where formulators want a gentle multitasker.
Overall safety is high with low irritation and low comedogenicity although those with animal protein allergies should stay alert. As with any new cosmetic, patch testing a small area first is wise to make sure your skin agrees with it.