From your 30s to your 70s and beyond, the body’s natural production of collagen steadily declines, which can lead to visible signs of ageing such as sagging, fine lines, and dryness. Understanding how collagen supports skin elasticity can make all the difference in maintaining a youthful, healthy glow.
Fortunately, there are science-backed ways to support your skin’s natural resilience and collagen is one of the most effective.
In your 30s, your skin still has a youthful glow, but beneath the surface, collagen production starts to slow down, dropping by about 1% each year. While this might not be immediately visible, it sets the stage for future ageing. The dermal layer begins to thin, and the skin’s ability to retain moisture declines, making it more vulnerable to environmental stressors and the first signs of ageing.
Now is the time to prioritise prevention. Incorporating hydrolysed marine collagen into your routine helps replenish lost collagen and maintain skin elasticity.
Clinical research has shown that regular supplementation can improve skin hydration, elasticity and density in women over 35, providing a crucial head start against the effects of ageing. Antioxidants and vitamin C are also key allies at this stage, helping to combat oxidative damage and support collagen synthesis.
Once you reach your 40s, declining oestrogen levels accelerate collagen loss. This often shows up as sagging around the jawline, deeper wrinkles and a decrease in skin plumpness. Hormonal changes also impact the skin’s lipid barrier, leading to dryness and a dull complexion.
Supporting skin elasticity in your 40s means going beyond topical creams. Collagen peptides work from within to replenish amino acids essential for dermal structure, while also promoting skin firmness.
Emerging technologies like LED red light therapy have also shown promising results. One 2014 study published in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery found that red light therapy improved collagen density and wrinkle appearance after several weeks of consistent use [1].
Integrating marine collagen alongside skin-supportive nutrients like hyaluronic acid, silica, and essential fatty acids can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s strength and bounce.
During and after menopause, collagen levels can drop by as much as 30% in the first five years. This results in more pronounced sagging, thinning of the skin, slower wound healing and reduced resilience to environmental stressors. Skin can appear crepey, particularly on the neck, chest and hands.
Marine collagen supplementation becomes even more essential at this stage, helping to rebuild structure and improve hydration from within. A 2019 systematic review in Journal of Drugs in Dermatology confirmed that oral collagen peptides significantly improve skin elasticity and hydration in middle-aged women [2].
In addition to collagen, lifestyle adjustments such as staying hydrated, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a nutrient-rich diet rich in vitamin E, omega-3s, and polyphenols will further support the skin. Strength training and resistance-based exercise can also improve circulation and oxygenation to the skin, promoting better nutrient delivery.
By your 70s, the skin’s regenerative ability has slowed significantly. This results in deeper lines, more extensive volume loss, and an increased susceptibility to bruising and injury. Collagen breakdown continues, but that doesn’t mean support efforts should stop, in fact, they’re more important than ever.
Continued use of marine collagen helps reinforce skin structure, reduce dryness and promote a more radiant complexion. Nutrients like zinc, biotin and vitamin C become particularly vital to maximise collagen’s effectiveness. While topical treatments may provide temporary plumping, real results are built from within.
Gentle red light therapy can still be effective in stimulating circulation and fibroblast activity, which are essential for skin renewal at this stage. Staying active, even with low-impact movement, supports overall tissue health and keeps the skin nourished with better blood flow.
Understanding how collagen supports skin elasticity at each stage of life allows you to take a more targeted and preventative approach.
Whether you’re in your 30s or 70s, consistent collagen supplementation, paired with supportive lifestyle habits, can help maintain smoother, firmer, more resilient skin.
Explore the ProPlenish Marine Collagen range to find a formula that fits your skin goals.
References
[1] Barolet, D., & Boucher, A. (2014). Prophylactic low-level light therapy for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids: A case series. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32(2), 66-70. [2] Zague, V., de Freitas, V., da Costa Rosa, M., et al. (2019). Collagen peptides supplementation improves skin hydration, elasticity, and dermal collagen density: a systematic review. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 18(9), 841–846.
