The Collagen Cliff: Why Women Over 40 Are Talking About I

If you've recently come across the term "collagen cliff", you're not alone.

From longevity experts and menopause specialists to beauty editors and wellness practitioners, more people are talking about what happens to collagen levels as we age—and why it matters for far more than just wrinkles.

While collagen has long been associated with skin health and beauty, emerging conversations around healthy ageing are highlighting its broader role in supporting skin structure, connective tissue, mobility and overall wellbeing.

So what exactly is the collagen cliff, and what can you do about it?

What Is The Collagen Cliff?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It acts as a structural building block found in skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bones and connective tissues.

From our mid-20s onwards, natural collagen production begins to decline. While this happens gradually at first, women often experience a more noticeable drop during perimenopause and menopause due to hormonal changes, particularly declining oestrogen levels.

This accelerated decline is what many experts are now referring to as the "collagen cliff".

For some women, this may show up as:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Loss of skin elasticity

• Thinning or drier skin

• Changes in hair and nails

• Reduced joint comfort

• Slower recovery from exercise

• General signs of ageing becoming more noticeable

While ageing is a natural process, understanding these changes can help you make informed decisions about supporting your health and wellbeing.

Why Is Everyone Talking About It Now?

The wellness industry is experiencing a shift.

For years, the focus was primarily on anti-ageing. Today, the conversation is increasingly centred on healthy ageing, longevity and maintaining quality of life as we get older.

Rather than chasing quick fixes, more women are investing in daily habits that support long-term health.

This includes:

• Resistance training

• Prioritising protein intake

• Sleep and recovery

• Stress management

• Nutrient-dense diets

• Evidence-based supplementation

Collagen has become part of this broader healthy ageing conversation because of its role in supporting connective tissues throughout the body.

Can You Replace Lost Collagen?

While we cannot stop the ageing process, there are lifestyle factors that may help support collagen production and collagen-rich tissues.

These include:

Prioritising Protein

Protein provides the amino acids needed to build and maintain tissues throughout the body.

Many women unintentionally under-consume protein, particularly during midlife.

Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen synthesis, which is why it is commonly included alongside collagen supplements.

Strength Training

Regular resistance training supports muscle mass, bone health and healthy ageing.

As we age, maintaining muscle becomes increasingly important for mobility, strength and independence.

Collagen Supplementation

Hydrolysed collagen peptides are increasingly being incorporated into wellness routines by people seeking to support skin health and healthy ageing.

Consistency is key. Like many healthy habits, the benefits are generally associated with ongoing daily use rather than short-term supplementation.

Marine vs Bovine Collagen: Does It Matter?

One of the most common questions people ask is whether marine collagen or bovine collagen is better.

The truth is that both provide collagen peptides, but they may appeal to different people depending on dietary preferences and wellness goals.

Marine Collagen

Marine collagen is sourced from fish and is popular among those seeking a pescatarian-friendly option.

It is particularly rich in Type I collagen, which is the predominant collagen found in skin.

Bovine Collagen

Bovine collagen is sourced from cattle and commonly contains both Type I and Type III collagen.

It is widely used in collagen supplementation and has been the subject of numerous studies investigating skin health.

Ultimately, the best collagen is the one you enjoy taking consistently.

Healthy Ageing Is About Consistency

One of the biggest misconceptions about collagen is that results should appear within a few days or weeks.

The reality is that healthy ageing is not built on quick fixes.

It is built on the small habits we repeat every day:

• Moving our bodies

• Eating well

• Managing stress

• Prioritising sleep

• Supporting our nutritional needs

Collagen supplementation is often viewed as one piece of this broader wellness picture.

The Bottom Line

The collagen cliff may be a new term, but the concept behind it is not.

As we age, natural collagen production declines, particularly during midlife and menopause.

While ageing is inevitable, there is growing interest in lifestyle strategies that support healthy ageing, including nutrition, exercise and evidence-based supplementation.

Rather than focusing solely on looking younger, the conversation is shifting towards feeling stronger, healthier and more confident at every stage of life.

And perhaps that's the most important wellness trend of all.