Collagen for Ageing Skin: What Works After 40

If you’re a woman in your 40s or beyond, you may have noticed your skin doesn’t quite bounce back the way it used to. Fine lines, dryness, and loss of elasticity are all natural signs of ageing. One of the main reasons for this is a decline in collagen, the key structural protein that gives your skin its strength and firmness.

Starting in your mid-20s, collagen production slows down and by your 40s, hormonal changes, cumulative sun exposure, and lifestyle habits accelerate that loss. The result? Thinner, drier, less resilient skin.

The good news: Research indicates that collagen supplements, especially Verisol® collagen peptides, can enhance skin hydration and elasticity while decreasing wrinkle depth from within (Pubmed). Trusted brands such as Proto-col formulate these supplements using clinically studied peptides to deliver visible results for women’s skin health after 40.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is the major structural protein of the dermis (the deeper layer of your skin). It forms a 'scaffolding' of fibres that gives your skin strength, elasticity and volume.

Collagen Supplements for Ageing and Wrinkles

Collagen is essential for maintaining the skin’s structure, firmness, and youthful 'bounce.' As we age, our natural collagen stores decline, and with it, skin’s ability to repair itself.

Collagen supplements help replenish what’s lost by providing bioavailable peptides that the body can absorb and use to rebuild skin structure.

Studies have shown that daily intake of collagen peptides can lead to:

• Improved skin hydration and smoothness

• Increased elasticity and firmness

• Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles

• Overall improvement in skin density and tone

Do Collagen Peptides Really Help Fight Wrinkles and Ageing?

Yes, clinical evidence strongly supports the benefits of oral collagen supplementation for reducing visible signs of ageing. (American Journal of Medicine)

Collagen peptides are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the skin, where they act in two main ways:

1. Amino Acid Support:
   They provide essential amino acids (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline) — the building blocks your body needs to produce new collagen and elastin. (Science Direct)

2. Cellular Stimulation:
   Collagen peptides stimulate fibroblasts, the skin’s collagen-producing cells, encouraging them to make more collagen and elastin — proteins that give skin structure and resilience. (Krager)

A Karger study involving women aged 45–65 found that taking 2.5 g of Verisol® collagen peptides daily for 8 weeks resulted in a 20% reduction in wrinkle volume and significant increases in collagen and elastin production.

We also have our own clinical trials for the Verisol Peptides found within Protocol products. 

For women over 40, this is particularly valuable because the body’s natural collagen synthesis is slower, meaning supplementation can meaningfully improve firmness and hydration over time.

What is Verisol®?

Verisol® is a proprietary (patented) set of bioactive collagen peptides developed by Gelita AG. The formulation is optimised for skin health (rather than joint or bone health). (Gelita)

What are Verisol® B and Verisol® F?

• Verisol® B:
  Bovine derived bioactive collagen peptides. A recent 2025 study shows benefits for skin hydration, elasticity and wrinkle reduction with just 2.5 g/day over 8 weeks. Found in our products such as Beauty Collagen, Radiance Collagen and Complete Collagen. 

• Verisol® F:
  There isn’t much public information about the “F” version of Verisol, but some manufacturers use it to show that it comes from fish or that it’s a special formula. If you see “Verisol® F,” it’s a good idea to check where it comes from, how much is used, and which study it’s based on. We offer the Marine Collagen gels or Marine Radiance Capsules , both with clinical studies. 

What do the clinical studies show? 

• A landmark trial (114 women, aged 45–65) took 2.5g Verisol® daily for 8 weeks and found a 20% reduction in eye-wrinkle volume, and increases in procollagen type I (+65%) and elastin (+18%) vs placebo. Karger Publishers+1 

• Another RCT (66 women aged 35–55) using Verisol® B found significant improvements in wrinkle volume, elasticity and hydration within 4 to 8 weeks. MDPI+1 

• A 2021 meta analysis of hydrolysed collagen (total 19 studies, over 1,100 participants) found significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity and wrinkle reduction. PubMed 

These results mean that for many women 40+, a daily dose of 2.5 g of Verisol®-type peptides over 8-12 weeks is scientifically supported for improving skin structure. 

The Benefits of Collagen for Your Skin

Here’s what consistent collagen supplementation can do for ageing skin:

• Reduces Wrinkle Depth:
  Multiple double blind studies show a 15–20% reduction in fine lines and wrinkles within 8–12 weeks.

• Improves Skin Elasticity:
  Collagen peptides help fibroblasts increase production of type I collagen and elastin, restoring the skin’s firmness.

• Boosts Hydration:
  Studies show improved skin moisture levels as collagen peptides enhance hyaluronic acid synthesis.

• Enhances Radiance and Texture:
  By supporting the dermal matrix, collagen supplementation gives skin a smoother, healthier glow.

• Supports Skin During Menopause:
  Hormonal changes around menopause accelerate collagen breakdown; supplementation helps counterbalance this natural decline.

Incorporating collagen into your routine as Protocol’s clinically formulated Verisol® supplements provides the body with precisely what it needs to rebuild and maintain healthy, glowing skin.

How to Use Collagen Supplements for Ageing Skin

1. Daily Dosage

For optimal results, studies consistently use a daily dose of 2.5 g of Verisol® collagen peptides. This small yet adequate amount has been shown to improve hydration and elasticity within 8–12 weeks.

2. Timing

Take collagen daily consistency is more important than timing. Many prefer it in the morning mixed into coffee, smoothies, or water.

3. Supporting Habits

• Protect skin from UV exposure with daily SPF.

• Maintain a nutrient rich diet (vitamin C, zinc, antioxidants).

• Stay hydrated and prioritise sleep.

• Combine with topical retinoids or peptides for synergistic benefits.

5. Choosing a Trusted Collagen Supplement

When selecting a collagen product, look for:

• Clear mention of Verisol® collagen peptides or an equivalent clinically tested type.

• Transparent sourcing and dosage information.

• Reputable manufacturers that control their own production for quality assurance — such as Proto-col, which produces its own line of collagen supplements following the same clinical research standards.

What Results Can You Expect & When? 

Based on the available data (and remembering individual results vary): 

• Within 4 weeks: Some studies report improved skin hydration and slight elasticity improvements. MDPI+1 

• Around 8 weeks: More consistent improvements in wrinkle depth, skin elasticity, and firmer appearance. For example, a 20% reduction in wrinkle volume at 8 weeks. Karger Publishers+1 

• After 12 weeks+: Meta-analysis suggests ongoing benefits in hydration and elasticity. PubMed+1 

Important note for women over 40: Because skin structural decline may be more advanced (than in younger cohorts), consistency is key, daily intake, plus a wholesome skin-care regimen (sun protection, moisturisation, nutrition) gives the best chance of visible benefit. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does collagen really help fight wrinkles and ageing?

Ans: Yes. Studies have shown that oral collagen peptides can enhance hydration, improve elasticity, and reduce wrinkle depth. The effects usually become noticeable within 8–12 weeks of consistent use.

Q: Can I apply collagen to my skin instead of taking supplements?

Ans: Topical collagen improves surface hydration but doesn’t penetrate deeply enough to rebuild collagen fibres in the dermis. Ingestible collagen, like that found in Protocol’s supplements, stimulates your skin’s own collagen production from within, which is more effective for long-term results.

Q: What type of collagen is best for skin?

Ans: Type I collagen (the most abundant in the skin) is the key target for anti-ageing benefits. Verisol® peptides used in Protocol Collagen Supplements are specifically designed to boost type I collagen and elastin synthesis.

Q: Are collagen supplements safe for women over 40?

Ans: Yes. Clinical studies including women aged 40–65 report excellent safety with no significant side effects (MDPI). As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have underlying conditions or are on medication.

Q: How long should I take collagen supplements?

Ans: For visible results, take them daily for at least 8–12 weeks. Many women continue to maintain long-term hydration, firmness, and elasticity benefits.

Summary: Collagen Support for Confident Ageing

As collagen levels decline with age, skin naturally loses firmness and hydration. However, research shows that collagen supplements, particularly those containing Verisol® peptides, can significantly support your skin’s structure and appearance.

For women over 40, Proto-col Collagen Supplements provide a trusted, science-backed solution delivering clinically studied bioactive collagen peptides that work from within to:

• Improve skin elasticity

• Boost hydration

• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles

• Support smoother, firmer, more radiant skin

Remember: it’s not about reversing time, but strengthening your skin from the inside out, so it looks and feels its best at every age.