Once you hit your 40s, you may start to notice your skin isn’t quite bouncing back like it used to. Fine lines become more noticeable, skin may feel thinner or drier, and that youthful plumpness slowly fades. While no single product can completely stop aging, esthetician Chris Gibson says there’s one daily habit that can make a visible difference: taking collagen peptides.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and a key component of skin structure—it keeps skin firm, smooth, and resilient. “Collagen peptides are chains of amino acids,” explains Gibson. “They’re the building blocks the body uses to repair and regenerate tissues in the skin.” These peptides—made up of 19 amino acids—help form both collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin’s strength and elasticity.
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What Happens When You Take Collagen Daily
After age 30, the body’s natural collagen production begins to slow down, and by 40, the loss becomes more noticeable. Wrinkles deepen, skin loses its bounce, and issues like dryness and sagging become more common. That’s where collagen supplements come in.
Gibson, who takes 20 grams of hydrolyzed collagen powder daily, points to clinical studies showing increased skin thickness and hydration, especially in burn patients and those with thinning skin. “I’ve seen the same beneficial effects in my own skin,” he says, noting improvements in lifelong dry skin and overall texture.
While he doesn’t dwell much on wrinkles specifically, the connection is clear: boosting collagen from within helps improve skin density and moisture—two key factors in minimizing the appearance of fine lines. Many users report smoother skin, improved elasticity, and even a subtle “glow” with consistent use over several months.
The Bottom Line
You can find collagen peptides in pill or powder form, but powders (especially hydrolyzed collagen) tend to be more easily absorbed by the body. And the best part? They’re easy to add to your daily routine—just mix into your morning smoothie, coffee, or even water.
While collagen won’t erase wrinkles overnight, it can support your skin’s natural repair processes and help you maintain a firmer, healthier-looking complexion well into your 40s and beyond.
