Collagen is the body’s main structural protein. Collagen makes up 70% of skin and gives skin both strength and elasticity. Collagen forms 30% of bone and gives bones the flexibility they need to withstand impact. The collagen fibers in bone are the binding sites for calcium as well as all bone minerals.[1] Collagen is the major component of fascia, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. But collagen production begins decreasing at age 18. By the age of 40, the decrease is about 1% per year.[2] For women, the decline equates to a loss of 7% of skin thickness every 10 years. Following menopause, the decline in thickness accelerates to as much as 1.13% annually, while skin elasticity degrades 0.55% per year.[3] Adequate collagen production correlates with healthy bones and strong hair and nails.*
