The Role of Collagen Loss in Menopause Skin Ageing

As women enter menopause, the visible signs of ageing often seem to accelerate—and one of the key reasons is collagen loss . Collagen is the structural protein that gives our skin its firmness, elasticity, and youthful volume. But as estrogen levels drop during menopause, so too does our skin’s ability to produce and maintain collagen.

Let’s explore how this collagen decline impacts the skin, and what you can do to support skin health and resilience during this important life stage.

Collagen is like the skin’s internal scaffolding—it holds everything up. It makes up around 75% of your skin’s dry weight , giving it:

• Firmness and bounce

• Smooth texture

• The ability to heal and regenerate

When collagen production slows down, the skin becomes thinner, looser, and more prone to wrinkling .

During the first 5 years of menopause, women can lose up to 30% of their skin’s collagen . This rapid decline is primarily due to:

• Decreased estrogen levels , which directly affect collagen synthesis

• Slower cell turnover , which impacts the skin’s repair and renewal processes

• Reduced blood flow , leading to less oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin

The result? Increased fine lines, sagging, dryness, and a loss of volume , particularly around the cheeks, jawline, and eyes.

• Loss of firmness and facial definition

• Fine lines becoming deeper and more visible

• Thinner, more fragile skin texture

• Delayed wound healing or post-inflammatory pigmentation

• Dull, tired-looking complexion

1. Retinoids (Vitamin A):
Stimulate collagen production and improve skin thickness.

2. Peptides:
Signal the skin to produce more collagen and elastin.

3. Vitamin C:
Protects existing collagen and brightens uneven tone.

4. Ceramides and Fatty Acids:
Support the skin barrier, which is essential for collagen stability.

1. RF Skin Needling:
Combines microneedling with radiofrequency heat to remodel collagen and tighten skin.

2. Traditional Skin Needling:
Triggers collagen synthesis through controlled micro-injury—great for texture and firmness.

3. LED Light Therapy (Red Light):
Supports collagen regeneration and reduces inflammation.

4. Collagen-Stimulating Peels:
Like TCA or lactic-based options, help improve thickness and clarity over time.

• Collagen supplements (look for hydrolysed collagen with vitamin C)

• Omega fatty acids for hydration and barrier support

• Antioxidant-rich diet to protect against environmental collagen breakdown

Collagen loss is one of the biggest contributors to skin ageing during menopause—but it doesn’t have to be the end of your skin’s vitality. With a strategic approach combining pro-youth skincare, clinical treatments, and internal support , you can restore resilience, improve firmness, and feel confident in your skin.

Need help designing your own collagen support plan? Book a Skin Discovery Session—we’re here to help every step of the way.