The Science of skin ageing: why we lose collagen - and what can be done about it
When we think about skin ageing, we often focus on fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. However, the true cause of visible ageing starts much deeper — at a cellular level. One of the most important factors in skin ageing is the gradual loss of collagen.
Understanding why collagen declines and how modern aesthetic medicine can support skin regeneration allows us to treat ageing skin more effectively, safely, and naturally.
What Is Collagen and Why Is It So Important?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and acts as the structural framework of the skin. It is responsible for:
• Skin firmness and strength
• Elasticity and resilience
• Smooth texture and hydration
• Supporting underlying facial structures
In youthful skin, collagen fibres are dense, organised and continually renewed. This is what gives skin its plump, healthy appearance.
Why Do We Lose Collagen as We Age?
Collagen loss is a natural and inevitable part of ageing, but several factors accelerate the process.
Intrinsic Ageing (Natural Ageing)
From our mid-20s, collagen production slows. Scientific studies suggest we lose approximately 1% of collagen per year as part of normal biological ageing. Fibroblast cells — responsible for producing collagen — become less active over time.
Extrinsic Ageing (Environmental Factors)
External factors significantly accelerate collagen breakdown, including:
• UV exposure – the leading cause of premature skin ageing
• Oxidative stress from pollution and free radicals
• Smoking and poor lifestyle factors
• Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause
Over time, collagen fibres become fragmented and disorganised, leading to thinner skin, laxity, fine lines and loss of volume.
Why “Filling Wrinkles” Isn’t Enough
Traditional aesthetic treatments often focused on simply filling lines or relaxing muscles. While these approaches still have an important role, modern aesthetic medicine has evolved.
The focus has shifted towards regenerative treatments that improve skin quality by stimulating the body’s own collagen production. This approach supports long-term skin health rather than temporary cosmetic improvement.
Evidence-Based Treatments That Support Collagen Production
At Amecium Aesthetics, we prioritise treatments backed by scientific research that target collagen at a cellular level.
Polynucleotides (PN)
Polynucleotides are bio-stimulatory molecules derived from DNA fragments. They work by:
• Stimulating fibroblast activity
• Improving tissue repair and hydration
• Reducing inflammation
• Supporting long-term collagen synthesis
PN treatments are widely used in regenerative medicine and have growing evidence in skin rejuvenation.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP uses your own blood-derived growth factors to stimulate:
• Collagen and elastin production
• Angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation)
• Improved skin texture and tone
Clinical studies show PRP can improve skin quality, fine lines and overall radiance.
Skin Boosters & Mesotherapy
These treatments deliver hyaluronic acid and active ingredients directly into the skin to:
• Improve hydration
• Support fibroblast function
• Enhance collagen stimulation when used as part of a treatment plan
Microneedling
Controlled micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural healing response, triggering:
• Collagen remodelling
• Improved skin texture and firmness
• Enhanced penetration of regenerative products
The Importance of a Medical-Led Approach
Not all collagen loss is the same. Age, lifestyle, hormonal status and skin condition all influence how skin ages.
A medical-led clinic can:
• Assess your skin at a deeper level
• Create a personalised treatment plan
• Combine treatments safely and effectively
• Focus on long-term skin health, not short-term fixes
This approach ensures natural, progressive and sustainable results.
Can Collagen Loss Be Reversed?
While we cannot stop ageing entirely, we can significantly slow collagen loss and stimulate regeneration with the right treatments, skincare and lifestyle advice.
Early intervention, combined with evidence-based regenerative treatments, can:
• Improve skin quality
• Delay visible ageing
• Maintain a natural, healthy appearance over time
Book a Skin Consultation
At Amecium Aesthetics, we believe skin rejuvenation should be grounded in science, safety and individualised care.
If you are concerned about skin ageing, loss of firmness or overall skin quality, a personalised consultation will allow us to recommend the most appropriate collagen-stimulating treatments for you.
Book your consultation today and invest in the long-term health of your skin.