Collagen makes up a staggering 75% of the dry weight of the skin. Simply put, it is the “framework” that makes it firm and elastic. As we age, collagen levels decrease, leading to noticeable changes in the condition of the skin. In fact, after the age of 25, we lose approximately 1% of its reserves every year. As a result, the skin loses elasticity, enlarged pores and wrinkles appear.
Why is collagen important for skin?
Collagen is one of the most abundant structural proteins in the human body, playing a key role in maintaining the integrity, density and elasticity of the skin. “Over time, the cells responsible for collagen synthesis decrease their activity. Factors that accelerate its destruction include solar radiation, nutrition, stress and hormonal changes (especially in women during menopause),” explains Mercedes Abarquero Cerezo, pharmacist and medical manager at L'Oréal Spain.
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5 Critical Signs of Collagen Loss
The process of collagen loss is natural, but there are many products and treatments that help maintain elasticity and stimulate its production. Before choosing a treatment with a dermatologist or cosmetologist, it is worth learning to recognize the first signals.
Loss of elasticity and sagging
The main signal is a decrease in skin density. “It becomes less elastic, pores become more visible due to the weakening of their structure, and the skin itself gradually thins,” explains cosmetologist and brand founder Dr. Sam Bunting.
Dry skin
Collagen helps the skin retain moisture. When its levels drop, the skin becomes drier due to a reduced ability to retain moisture. This can be partially corrected with dietary changes and proper care.
More pronounced expression lines
Due to loss of elasticity, fine lines stop disappearing when the face is relaxed, and wrinkles become more noticeable.
Less “plumped” skin appearance
The skin becomes thinner, softer, and less elastic. You may notice that it doesn't bounce back as quickly from light pressure as it used to.
Decreased elasticity
Other signs include thinning skin, a more “hollow” area under the eyes, changes in the oval of the face (for example, narrowing of the temples), brittle nails and hair, and sometimes even joint pain and muscle weakness. Collagen does indeed affect many processes in the body.
Collagen and menopause
According to Banting, collagen levels change significantly during menopause due to the decline in estrogen levels. “Estrogen directly supports collagen synthesis, so during perimenopause and menopause, collagen production decreases dramatically,” she explains. That's why many women notice significant changes in skin density, thickness, and elasticity during this period.
Early signs of collagen loss
According to Banting, the changes are subtle at first. In your 30s, you may notice fine lines, a slight change in texture, and slower skin renewal. By age 50, especially around menopause, wrinkles become deeper, sagging appears, facial contours lose definition, and skin becomes noticeably thinner.
Do symptoms change with age?
In your 30s and 40s, these are fine lines and changes in texture, but after your mid-40s, deeper lines, sagging, and thinning of the skin appear. The process accelerates during menopause: women can lose up to 30% of their collagen in the first five years after menopause, and about 2% each year thereafter.
Is it possible to completely restore collagen?
The skin is capable of producing new collagen throughout life. “Regular use of retinoids at night is one of the most effective ways to stimulate this process,” says Banting. Collagen production also depends on cellular energy (provided by mitochondria), so supporting the skin’s energy supply is an important area of modern skincare.
How to slow down collagen loss
It is impossible to completely stop this process, but it can be slowed down. Experts advise:
- avoid factors that accelerate collagen destruction (smoking, sun)
- use SPF daily
- get enough rest and reduce stress levels
- engage in regular physical activity
- maintain a stable weight
- follow a balanced diet (eggs, dairy products, legumes, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, meat and fish)
- use products with active ingredients that stimulate collagen (glycosaminoglycans, proxylan, peptides, cassia extract, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants – vitamin C and niacinamide)
Do collagen creams work?
Collagen cosmetics (creams or masks) do indeed improve the appearance of the skin, but they are unlikely to prevent collagen loss at a deeper level. “Collagen has a high molecular weight, so it only penetrates the upper layers of the skin,” explains Abarquero Cerezo. In other words, such products give a quick visual effect, improving the surface texture. However, to maintain a balance between collagen destruction and synthesis, it is worth relying on proper care and lifestyle.
Based on material from: Vogue.co.uk