Collagen is the protein that “holds” your skin. Literally. It is responsible for making it feel firm, elastic, with volume. When it decreases, the skin becomes thinner, less dense and loses definition. And there is a time in life – from perimenopause to menopause – when this change accelerates.
Do you want to know what exactly it is, why it decreases and how you can preserve collagen? Let's get to it.
What is collagen?
The most abundant protein in your body. The one that gives structure, support and consistency to bones, joints and also to your skin. Two types predominate in the skin—I and III—, which account for nearly 90% of the skin's collagen and are key to maintaining firmness, flexibility and volume.
What does collagen do in your skin?
It acts as an “internal scaffolding”. Like all proteins, it is made up of amino acids that, when organized, create collagen fibers. These fibers build a network that provides cohesion and elasticity. When its levels are optimal, the skin looks:
- ⋅ More firm
- ⋅ More elastic
- ⋅ More dense
- ⋅ More resistant
When it decreases, sagging, more marked wrinkles and loss of volume appear.
When does collagen loss in the skin begin?
From the age of 25-30, the natural production of collagen begins to progressively reduce. But, during the first 5 years after menopause, the loss can accelerate: the skin can lose up to 30% of its collagen.
Hormones and collagen: a direct relationship
Estrogens influence collagen production. When your levels decrease:
- ⋅ Collagen production slows down
- ⋅ The skin loses its ability to recover
- ⋅ Increases dryness and the feeling of tightness
Hormones matter a lot, but they are not the only factor. The sun, tobacco, alcohol, an unbalanced diet, pollution or stress also directly impact the quality and quantity of collagen.
How to preserve collagen in your skin and avoid facial sagging?
Collagen decreases, but it can also be protected and supported. Menopause is not the end of firmness. It is the beginning of a new way of taking care of your skin.
Four keys to preserve its structure:
- ⋅ Daily sun protection: UV radiation promotes oxidative stress, which accelerates collagen degradation and skin aging.
- ⋅ Pro-collagen active ingredients: Formulas that provide collagen, stimulate its natural production and help protect it against degradation.
- ⋅ Constant hydration: Well-hydrated skin maintains its elasticity and density better.
- ⋅ Healthy habits: Rest, good nutrition and sugar control are essential. Excess glucose promotes glycation, a process that weakens collagen and accelerates its deterioration.
Signs of collagen loss in your skin
If you are wondering how to know if your skin is losing collagen, pay attention to:
- ⋅ Loss of volume in cheeks
- ⋅ Sagging in the neck and facial contour
- ⋅ Thinner skin or less resistant
Understanding how collagen changes is the first step. Activate it, next.
Since our beginnings in 1979, at Natura Bissé we have been committed to collagen to enhance the firmness of the skin. We were pioneers and this milestone marked the origin of our iconic Essential Shock line. Today, our pro-collagen collection is up to date with new generation actives, especially in key stages such as perimenopause and menopause.
What happens to your skin during menopause?
Menopause not only affects collagen. Hormonal changes, increased dryness, loss of density, alterations in the skin barrier… The skin undergoes a profound transformation. If you want to understand what really happens and how to adapt your routine to this new stage…
Scientific sources
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