# Collagen After 40: What Really Helps

> From age 40, the body's own collagen production changes. What the science says, which collagen types have been studied and which WOO® products fit.

From the age of 40, the body's own collagen production declines noticeably, affecting skin, joints and connective tissue. Many people wonder how they can counteract this natural aging process and support the collagen structures in the body. It is important to understand the mechanisms behind it and which measures are actually backed by science.

## Changes in Collagen Structures After 40

With increasing age, the activity of fibroblasts, the collagen producing cells, decreases, while enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which break down collagen, become more active. This imbalance leads to a net loss of collagen. External factors such as **UV radiation**, **smoking** and a **sugar rich diet** (advanced glycation end products, AGEs) further accelerate this process. The result is visible changes such as **reduced skin elasticity**, **wrinkle formation**, **slower wound healing** and **joint discomfort**.

## What Science Says About Oral Collagen Supplementation

Research shows that **hydrolyzed collagen** (collagen peptides) is well absorbed by the body. Enzymatic cleavage produces short peptides that are absorbed more efficiently in the gut. Studies show that specific collagen peptides are detectable in the blood and can accumulate in skin tissue. A double blind study by Proksch et al. (2014) found that women aged 35 to 55 who took 2.5 g of collagen peptides daily for eight weeks showed significantly **improved skin elasticity**. A meta-analysis by Barati et al. (2021) confirmed these positive effects on skin moisture, elasticity and wrinkle depth.

## Relevant Collagen Types and Their Sources

Collagen exists in various types that serve different functions in the body. **Type I collagen** is the main component of skin, tendons and bones and is particularly relevant for beauty and sports applications. It is often sourced from marine or bovine origins. **Type II collagen** is found primarily in joint cartilage and is important for joint health, typically from chicken cartilage. **Type III collagen** frequently occurs together with type I in skin and blood vessels and contributes to skin elasticity, usually from bovine sources. **Marine fish collagen** (predominantly type I) often has smaller peptide molecules and potentially higher bioavailability than bovine collagen.

The effectiveness of collagen supplementation depends on several factors. Always use **hydrolyzed collagen** (collagen peptides), not gelatin. The recommended **dosage** is between 2.5 and 10 g daily, depending on the desired effect (e.g. 5 g for the skin, 10 g for the joints). **Vitamin C** is essential as a cofactor for the body's own collagen synthesis. For visible results, **consistent intake** over at least 8 to 12 weeks is necessary, since the effects build up slowly.

For comprehensive support of collagen structures, combining specific collagen peptides with additional active ingredients is a good approach. **[WOO® Fish Collagen](/en/shop/woo-fish-collagen-can)** contains marine type I collagen and Care300® mango extract. **[WOO® Beauty Caps](/en/shop/woo-beauty-caps-can)** combine collagen with astaxanthin, hyaluronic acid and Q10. Available in our shop.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Why is vitamin C important for collagen?**
Vitamin C is an essential cofactor for the enzymes involved in collagen synthesis. Without enough vitamin C, the body cannot produce stable collagen, even if sufficient amino acids are available.

**How long does it take to see results?**
The effects of collagen supplementation are not immediately visible. It usually takes at least 8 to 12 weeks of consistent intake before the first positive changes in skin or joints become noticeable.

**Is marine collagen better than bovine collagen?**
Marine collagen (fish collagen) consists mainly of type I and tends to have smaller peptide molecules, which can favor better absorption. The choice often also depends on personal preferences and dietary habits.

## Sources

Proksch E et al. (2014), Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology - Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides.
Barati M et al. (2021), Nutrients - Collagen supplementation for skin health.
León-López A et al. (2019), Molecules - Hydrolyzed Collagen: Sources and Applications.

*WOO® Fish Collagen in the NEMAPO shop.*