As we navigate life's journey, the natural aging process bestows us the wisdom of experience. Alongside this wisdom, however, come changes in our bodies, particularly our skin. Women over 40 understand this transformation all too well as they encounter the gradual loss of youthful radiance and the emergence of age's subtle imprints on their skin.

Yet, in this era of advanced skincare and scientific innovation, we are not powerless in the face of time's passage. Collagen emerges as a shining beacon of hope, a protein that proves its mettle in the quest for ageless beauty.

In this blog, we will explore why collagen is essential for women over 40 and present clinically proven results confirming its effectiveness.

The Role of Collagen in Our Bodies

Collagen is one of the body's most essential and abundant proteins, making up as much as 30% of our total protein mass. It is predominantly found in the dermis, the central layer of the skin, comprising a remarkable 75% of the skin's dry weight.

This vital protein is crucial in maintaining our bones and skin's solid and integral structure. Its function is to keep these structures firm, flexible, and resilient.

In bones, collagen forms a network onto which minerals like calcium deposit, providing strength and resistance to fractures. A collagen deficiency would lead to brittle bones and increased fracture susceptibility. In joints and ligaments, collagen acts as a cushion and lubricant, facilitating smooth joint movement while contributing to their stability and preventing injuries.

In muscles, tendons, and cartilage, collagen plays a structural role, enabling these tissues' robust and flexible functioning. It aids in transmitting force between muscles and bones while preventing injuries and overstrains. In blood vessels, collagen maintains its elasticity and strength, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the heart and maintaining healthy blood flow throughout the body.

Changes in the Skin After 40

Changes in the skin after age 40 are a natural part of the aging process, as numerous alterations in the appearance and structure of the skin begin to occur. Understanding these changes allows individuals to address them appropriately and maintain a fresh and youthful appearance.

As previously mentioned, collagen is crucial in maintaining healthy and youthful skin. However, as the body ages, processes within it change, including the synthesis of collagen fibers. This is referred to as intrinsic skin aging, manifesting as a loss of youthful radiance and increased skin dryness. With age, the skin becomes thinner, fine lines turn into wrinkles, and it loses its natural elasticity.

"Young" skin comprises approximately 80% collagen type I and around 15% collagen type III. As aging progresses, the ability to synthesize collagen decreases, leading to thicker and shorter collagen fibrils. Consequently, collagen type I is lost, altering the balance of collagen types in the skin.

As a result, the density of collagen and elastin in the dermis decreases, compromising the skin's structure and elasticity. The skin can no longer maintain its shape as effectively, becoming looser, and wrinkles become more apparent. With these changes in mind, women over 40 can take steps to care for their skin, allowing them to feel confident and content with their appearance regardless of their age.

Clinically Proven Effects for Women

In their continuous effort to maintain healthy and youthful skin, women over 40 often turn to various products and procedures. However, choosing products supported by clinical evidence and explicitly tailored to their needs is essential. One such product that has garnered significant attention recently is the Collagen Shot.

An independent institute conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.

The study involved 107 women aged 40 to 65 years old.

The study's objective was to examine the effectiveness of the Collagen Shot in promoting the synthesis of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermal layer of the skin.

After 12 weeks of consuming a formulation containing 5,000 mg of collagen peptides, 1,500 mg of MSM, and vitamin C, the results revealed the following.

A 20% improvement in dermis density

The dermis is a crucial part of the skin for women over 40, as this period is associated with various age-related changes. The dermis is a natural barrier against harmful external factors such as sunlight, pollution, and other environmental influences.

The critical components of the dermis are collagen and elastin, which provide the skin with firmness, elasticity, and flexibility. Therefore, the dermis density largely depends on the amount of collagen and elastin in the skin. However, after age 25, collagen production in the body begins to decline, significantly impacting the skin's condition. 

Women over 40 are susceptible to these changes, as the loss of skin density becomes more noticeable during this period. The dermis loses its firmness, leading to sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Additionally, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture, resulting in dryness and peeling.

A 3.6% improvement in dermis thickness

Skin thickness decreases with age, leading to a loss of skin elasticity. This is particularly important for women over 40, as signs of aging such as sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles become more pronounced. While genetics play a role in skin thickness, one of the most significant contributing factors is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, often associated with sunlight and tanning beds.

UV radiation generates free radicals in the skin, which can cause premature skin aging, known as photoaging. In addition to potential DNA damage, these free radicals have an irreversible impact on collagen structure, which is responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. As a result, the skin gradually becomes less flexible and thinner, and wrinkles form.

A 32% improvement in skin hydration

Hydration plays a crucial role in preventing the early formation of wrinkles. Skin requires moisture to maintain firmness, elasticity, and a youthful appearance.

Well-hydrated skin appears younger at first glance. It is less saggy, has a more even tone, and is firmer. However, hydrated skin is about more than just aesthetics. Poorly hydrated skin can pose health risks, as inadequately maintained skin barrier can make it more vulnerable to harmful external factors. When the skin barrier doesn't function correctly, bacteria can penetrate, potentially leading to various infections.

A 12% improvement in skin texture

Skin texture is a measure of its softness and evenness. Skin with good texture is smooth, soft, and pleasant to touch, giving the impression of healthy and youthful skin. Conversely, poor skin texture appears rough and uneven, often accompanied by enlarged pores.

As the skin ages, its texture can deteriorate due to the loss of collagen, elastin, and other essential components responsible for skin firmness and smoothness. This can lead to fine lines, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores. Therefore, improving skin texture is crucial for women over 40, allowing them to maintain a fresh and youthful appearance.

A 14% reduction in the depth of wrinkles and a 12% decrease in wrinkle volume

For women over 40, it is essential to understand how changes in wrinkle depth and volume occur in connection with skin aging. A clinical study demonstrating a 14% reduction in wrinkle depth and a 12% decrease in wrinkle volume can significantly maintain their appearance and confidence.

Wrinkles typically appear on thinner, less hydrated, and less elastic skin. As we age, we lose skin thickness and density, leading to the natural formation of wrinkles. This is particularly relevant for women over 40, who face these changes with age. 

As demonstrated in the study, reducing wrinkle depth and volume is crucial for maintaining a youthful skin appearance.

In the grand narrative of life, age is but a chapter and collagen emerges as a steadfast ally, ensuring that each chapter is written with grace and beauty. With the power of science and the wisdom of time, women over 40 can stand tall, confident in their ageless beauty, and continue to embrace the journey with poise and allure.