Collagen, Gender & Menopause: What You Should Know

Why collagen is important for men and women differently

Our bodies differ in many ways – and this also applies to collagen breakdown. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and forms the foundation for skin, hair, nails, and much more. Due to their higher collagen density, men have about 25% thicker skin than women. However, from their mid-20s, collagen production begins to decline in both sexes. Especially in women reaching menopause, collagen breakdown increases significantly, and the skin rapidly loses elasticity.

The impact of menopause on collagen

While collagen breakdown in men is continuous, women experience an accelerated decline after menopause. In the first five years after menopause, collagen levels can drop by up to 30%, affecting not only the skin but also hair and nails. Low estrogen levels during this phase lead to a significant decrease in collagen production. Some studies show that estrogen therapies can increase collagen content and skin elasticity again.

How collagen supplements can help

Supplementation with high-quality collagen peptides can support this process. For example, Peptan, a collagen peptide from Rousselot, has shown positive effects on the skin in studies. According to Peptan studies, skin elasticity improves by 7%, skin density by 8%, and skin hydration increases by up to 14%. These effects can be particularly helpful for women after menopause, as they mitigate the rapid breakdown of collagen and thus slow down skin aging.

Men also benefit

Although the benefits of collagen for women are often discussed, men can also benefit from regular collagen intake. Maintaining collagen reserves ensures firmer skin and healthy hair and nails – a benefit appreciated by both sexes.

Quality matters: What to look for

When choosing a collagen supplement, quality is crucial. Many studies, such as those by Peptan, show that at least 10g of collagen daily is necessary to achieve noticeable results. Consumers should ensure that the product has been clinically tested and contains the recommended dosage. Only then can one rely on the effectiveness of the product and be sure that their collagen balance is optimally supported.

Conclusion: Collagen as support at every stage of life

Both women and men can benefit from the right collagen product. Especially during times of hormonal changes like menopause, a high-quality collagen supplement can help support skin structure and mitigate the natural aging process. But even before the first visible signs, supplementation can help stabilize collagen reserves in the long term.

For detailed information and study results on Peptan and its effects on skin and hair, visit the official Peptan page here.