What Age to Take Collagen?

The best age to start taking collagen supplements is generally considered to be in your early to mid-twenties (20-25). This is because collagen production naturally begins to decline around this age, at a rate of about 1% per year.^{1, 9} Starting earlier allows you to proactively support your body's natural collagen levels and potentially delay the visible signs of aging.^{1, 2}

Why Start in Your Twenties?

• Preventative Measure: Taking collagen in your twenties acts as a preventative measure against the age-related decline in collagen production.^{1, 2} This proactive approach may help maintain skin elasticity, hair and nail health, and joint support.^{4, 7}
• Maximize Benefits: While collagen can be beneficial at any age,^{5, 6} research suggests starting in your twenties allows for maximum benefit as you counteract the natural age-related decline in collagen production.² Continuing supplementation into your thirties, forties, fifties, and beyond can further support these benefits.²

Other Considerations:

• Individual Needs: Although the twenties are generally recommended, individual needs may vary. Some may choose to start earlier or later based on their lifestyle, health concerns, and family history.^{3, 6}
• Dietary Intake: Adequate protein intake is crucial for collagen production. If your diet already provides sufficient protein, you may not need supplemental collagen.⁸

While there's no age that's "too old" to take collagen, starting in your twenties offers the most significant preventative advantages.⁶

References:

1. Revive Collagen blog: https://revivecollagen.com/blogs/news/at-what-age-does-collagen-production-slow-down-and-when-you-can-start-taking-collagen-supplements
2. Absolute Collagen blog: https://www.absolutecollagen.com/blogs/features-testimonials/what-age-should-i-start-taking-collagen
3. Depology blog: https://depology.com/blogs/news/at-what-age-should-i-take-collagen
4. Holland & Barrett: https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/vitamins-and-supplements/supplements/collagen/guide-collagen-benefits/
5. Vital Proteins UK: https://www.vitalproteins.co.uk/recipes/collagen/collagen-loss-with-age/
6. Quora: https://www.quora.com/What-age-is-advisable-to-drink-collagen
7. Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskWomen/comments/118rcoj/how_old_were_you_when_you_started_taking_collagen/
8. Quora: https://www.quora.com/What-happens-if-I-start-taking-collagen-while-Im-young-like-14-years-old-or-17-years-old
9. UCLA Health: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/should-you-take-collagen-supplements