There is a growing fascination with collagen in both aesthetic medicine and consumer skincare.

Patients increasingly ask about collagen supplements, collagen diets and treatments that promise to “restore collagen.” While this interest reflects a positive shift towards preventative and regenerative skin health, it also highlights how complex skin ageing truly is.

Collagen is the key structural protein within the dermis, responsible for skin firmness, resilience and elasticity. From our mid-20s, collagen declines by approximately 1% each year. During perimenopause and menopause this process accelerates significantly due to hormonal changes, which can lead to noticeable shifts in skin quality and facial support.

It is therefore understandable that women seek solutions.

When collagen is ingested, it is broken down into peptides and amino acids rather than being delivered directly to the skin. Some studies suggest these peptides may stimulate fibroblast activity and support collagen synthesis. Evidence shows that hydrolysed collagen supplementation may lead to modest improvements in hydration, elasticity and wrinkle appearance after several weeks of consistent use.

However, in clinical practice, the most reliable way to support collagen remains activating the skin’s own regenerative processes.

Treatments such as microneedling, fractional energy-based devices and biostimulatory injectables can stimulate collagen production more directly. These approaches work best when combined with lifestyle factors such as adequate nutrition, sun protection and metabolic health.

Skin ageing, particularly during hormonal transition is multifactorial. Volume loss, fat redistribution, tissue support and skin quality all play a role. This is why treating wrinkles alone is rarely sufficient.

A more thoughtful, layered approach that supports the face structurally and biologically is often required to achieve natural and long-term results.

As aesthetic medicine evolves, we are moving away from simply replacing volume and towards supporting tissue health and regeneration. In my view, this represents one of the most important shifts in modern practice.