Collagen Through the Ages

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure, elasticity, and overall health of the skin by supporting the vascular dermis within the integumentary system. Research shows that collagen levels begin to decline by 1% annually beginning in our 20s, with an additional 30% decrease within the first 5 years of menopause.¹

As advancements in technology and innovation continue to transform dermatology, patients of all ages seek expertise in the most effective strategies to maintain and regenerate collagen. This article provides key insights and science-backed evidence to help guide patients who are committed to investing in their skin’s depleting collagen reserves.

OPENING THE CONVERSATION

Recent market research revealed that collagen-focused content on TikTok has generated a stunning 438 million views, with 41% of users aged 18 to 24 searching the “collagen” hashtag.²

During consultations, we often ask, “What are you currently doing to maintain your collagen?” This simple question opens the door for meaningful discussions that lead to impactful, customized solutions. From products and treatments to oral supplements and wellness injections, collagen-focused treatment plans reflect patients’ commitment to non-invasive “skinvestments.”

Another effective approach involves showcasing transformative before and after results. Evidence suggests that patients are more likely to explore new treatment options when they see the positive outcomes in individuals to whom they relate.³ Our team makes sure to display a diverse array of patient before and after photos across our office and social media platforms, including a range of ages, skin types, and treatments. Figure 1 is an example of before (left) and after (right) treatments on display.

DIVERSIFYING YOUR COLLAGEN PORTFOLIO

Our practice offers a wide range of collagen-stimulating treatments, such as injectables (poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite), micro-coring, ultrasound, microneedling with radiofrequency, lasers, and hormone therapies. We also offer several wellness injections, collagen supplements, and medical-grade skincare to enhance patient outcomes. Offering a range of treatments supports tailored, combination approaches that promote natural results and satisfaction.

We enhance the patient’s experience by leveraging the principle of social proof, allowing patients to filter treatment options and results on our website by specific skin concerns, body part, or treatment of interest. This interactive feature helps guide patients toward relevant collagen-focused options. Research indicates that refined searches enhance clarity and increase likelihood of actionable impact.⁴ Narrowing the search and focusing on unique goals allows highly impactful before and after photos to be showcased, resonating deeply and inspiring confidence, motivating the patient to explore treatments proven to be effective for others with similar skin goals.

WELLNESS OFFERINGS

Skincare is healthcare, and we know diet and lifestyle play a pivotal role in maintaining collagen levels. We encourage nutrient- and protein-rich diets, which supply amino acids for collagen synthesis and repair. One way we support this is with nutrition tips that focus on skincare goals, such as super foods for hair growth, clear skin, and aging well. We invite our patients to take the physical nutrition card home, or they can quickly scan a QR code listed on their post-care instructions to make an accessible resource for them to refer to at home.

We also recommend regular wellness injections during patient appointments to support overall health, including NAD+, Lipostat+, B12, B Complex, and custom vitamin intravenous treatments with a blend of antioxidants. For patients who are unsure which wellness treatment is best for them, we encourage them to complete a brief wellness questionnaire that will help our providers to recommend the best treatment for their unique needs.

Moreover, during our patient loyalist weeklong events, we utilize these questionnaires to upgrade patients from complimentary B12 injections to a more impactful and tailored wellness treatment.

SUPPLEMENTING COLLAGEN

Whether patients are in their 30s or 70s, we recommend incorporating a high-quality hydrolyzed collagen supplement combined with Vitamin C. Research has shown that hydrolyzed collagen significantly improves skin hydration and elasticity, promoting a radiant complexion.⁵

We often encourage our patients to think of collagen levels as a “full tank of gas.” Regularly replenishing and supplementing this tank helps to maintain optimal levels and prevents the need for more intense refilling later.

As part of our comprehensive post-treatment care plan, we include tailored recommendations designed to work synergistically with the treatments and skincare products that our providers and patients have selected. Not only does this holistic approach support skin health, but it also supports overall wellness goals by treating the body from the inside out.

CONCLUSION

The conversation around collagen should begin in the 20s and continue throughout life. By reserving and replenishing collagen as small amounts are lost each year, we can set patients up to feel like the best version of themselves. Additionally, encouraging patients to focus on overall wellness in tandem with skin health yields optimal outcomes. Overall, emphasizing to patients the importance of maintaining collagen levels through the ages helps prevent the need for intensive correction later in life.

1. Thornton MJ. Estrogens and aging skin. Dermatoendocrinol. 2013;5(2):264-270. doi:10.4161/derm.23872

2. Albrizio L. Reshaping beauty with a $6.5 billion ingestible collagen market. Nutraceuticals World. September 23, 2024. Accessed April 12, 2025. https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/reshaping-beauty-with-a-65-billion-ingestible-collagen-market/.

3. Wood, JV. What is Social Comparison and How Should We Study it? Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 1996;22(5), 520-537. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167296225009

4. Cruz Rivera S, Kyte DG, Aiyegbusi OL, Keeley TJ, Calvert MJ. Assessing the impact of healthcare research: A systematic review of methodological frameworks. PLoS Med. 2017;14(8):e1002370. Published 2017 Aug 9. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.1002370

5. Pu SY, Huang YL, Pu CM, et al. Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2023;15(9):2080. Published 2023 Apr 26. doi:10.3390/nu15092080