What Happens to Collagen After 40 and How You Can Combat It

By age 40, collagen – the protein responsible for keeping our skin firm, elastic, and smooth – begins to break down faster than it’s produced. If you’re noticing more fine lines, sagging skin, or a duller complexion, collagen depletion is likely a major factor. The good news? You’re not powerless against it.

At Cosmetic Image Clinics in Brisbane, we specialise in advanced, scientifically-backed treatments that stimulate natural collagen production and restore your skin’s youthful glow. Let’s explore what happens to collagen after 40, the treatments we offer to combat it, and how you can support collagen production in your daily life.

Collagen and Ageing: The Science Behind Skin Changes After 40

Collagen acts as a “scaffold” for the skin, providing structure, resilience, and elasticity. However, beginning in your late 20s and accelerating in your 40s, collagen production drops, and the quality of existing collagen fibres diminishes. Here’s how it impacts your skin:

1. Loss of Elasticity: As collagen degrades, skin’s ability to "bounce back" decreases, leading to visible sagging, especially around the cheeks and jawline.

2. Increased Wrinkles and Fine Lines: With less collagen, the skin becomes thinner and more fragile, making lines and wrinkles more pronounced.

3. Dullness and Rough Texture: Reduced collagen and slowed cell turnover result in a less radiant complexion and rougher skin texture.

Collagen loss can be accelerated by factors like UV exposure, smoking, stress, and an inadequate diet. Combatting these factors early and consistently helps protect the collagen you have while treatments can restore and boost collagen production for firmer, more youthful skin.

Collagen-Boosting Treatments at Cosmetic Image Clinics

At Cosmetic Image Clinics, our goal is to offer customised, non-surgical solutions that help stimulate collagen, reduce the visible effects of ageing, and improve skin tone and texture. Here’s a closer look at our most effective collagen-boosting treatments:

1. Fraxel Laser Resurfacing: Repair and Renew Skin’s Surface

Fraxel laser resurfacing is a powerful, non-invasive treatment that uses fractional laser technology to create microscopic channels in the skin’s surface. These tiny micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, prompting new collagen production. Benefits of Fraxel include:

• Dramatically reduced fine lines and wrinkles

• Improved pigmentation issues like sunspots and age spots

• Refined texture and minimised acne scars

Fraxel is ideal for those seeking a refreshed look with minimal downtime. The results improve gradually, with most patients noticing smoother, firmer skin within a few weeks as collagen continues to build.

2. Nd-Yag and Q-Switch Laser: Deep Skin Rejuvenation for a Youthful Glow

The NdYag and Q-Switch lasers are effective at targeting deeper layers of the skin, offering solutions for both pigment correction and collagen remodelling. Here’s how these lasers work to restore youthful skin:

• Nd Laser: Known for its ability to penetrate deeply, this laser heats the collagen layer to promote long-term collagen regeneration, which reduces fine lines and skin laxity.

• Q-Switch Laser: Particularly effective at breaking down pigmentation while sparing the surrounding skin, making it perfect for reducing age spots and melasma.

The combination of these two lasers helps achieve smoother, firmer, and more even-toned skin, giving your complexion a youthful lift.

3. Vampire Facial (PRP): Collagen Boosting from Within

Also known as the Vampire Facial, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is a highly effective collagen-stimulating treatment. The process involves drawing a small amount of your blood, separating the platelet-rich plasma, and reapplying it to the skin. Rich in growth factors, PRP encourages the skin to produce more collagen and elastin. This treatment offers:

• Enhanced skin texture and elasticity

• Natural improvements in skin tone and hydration

• Reduced fine lines and rejuvenated appearance

Since it uses your own plasma, PRP is a natural way to enhance collagen with minimal risk. It’s a great option for those who prefer organic, autologous treatments with little downtime.

4. Ultherapy: Non-Surgical Lifting with Long-Lasting Results

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound energy to penetrate deeply into the skin’s foundational layers, where collagen production occurs. Unlike other treatments, Ultherapy is FDA-cleared for lifting and tightening skin on the neck, chin, and brow. Here’s why Ultherapy is an ideal solution for collagen loss after 40:

• Achieves a non-surgical facelift effect by lifting and tightening skin naturally

• Stimulates collagen production over several months for gradual, long-lasting results

• Suitable for multiple areas, including the neck, jawline, and chest

For those who want a noticeable, natural-looking lift without needles or surgery, Ultherapy is an excellent collagen-restoring solution.

Supporting Collagen in Your Daily Routine

While clinic treatments can significantly boost collagen, your daily habits also play an essential role in keeping skin healthy and resilient. Consider incorporating the following to protect and enhance your skin’s collagen:

1. Sun Protection: Use a high-SPF sunscreen daily. UV exposure is one of the leading causes of premature collagen breakdown.

2. Antioxidants: Applying serums with Vitamin C and E can help protect skin from free radicals, which break down collagen.

3. Collagen-Rich Diet: Eating foods high in Vitamin C, omega-3s, and collagen-rich proteins (like fish, bone broth, and leafy greens) supports skin health from the inside.

4. Hydration: Proper hydration is key to skin elasticity. Drink water regularly and consider a moisturiser that locks in moisture.

Why Choose Cosmetic Image Clinics for Your Collagen-Boosting Needs?

With years of experience in advanced cosmetic treatments, Cosmetic Image Clinics in Brisbane is committed to offering innovative, effective solutions tailored to each client’s unique skin needs. We believe in providing safe, high-quality treatments to help you look and feel your best at any age.

Book a consultation today to discuss your skin goals and discover which collagen-stimulating treatment is right for you. Our experts will craft a personalised plan that enhances your natural beauty and keeps your skin youthful, firm, and glowing.

👩‍💻 Book online here

📧 info@cosmeticimage.com.au

📞 07 3003 4000

📍70 Mary St Brisbane CBD