Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up roughly 30% of your total protein content. It is the primary structural component of skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage — essentially the scaffolding that holds your body together.
Why Collagen Matters
Starting in your mid-20s, your body produces approximately 1% less collagen each year. By your 40s, production has declined significantly, leading to visible signs of aging: fine lines, sagging skin, thinning hair, and brittle nails. Environmental factors — UV exposure, pollution, stress, and poor diet — accelerate this decline.
Types of Collagen
Type I — The most abundant type, found in skin, bones, tendons, and organs. Responsible for skin firmness and elasticity.
Type II — Found primarily in cartilage. Important for joint health.
Type III — Found alongside Type I in skin, blood vessels, and organs. Supports skin hydration and suppleness.
Why Supplementation Works
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are broken down into small enough molecules (typically under 5,000 Daltons) to be absorbed through the gut and distributed to the skin, hair, nails, and joints. Clinical studies consistently show improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle depth within 8-12 weeks of daily supplementation at doses of 5,000-10,000mg.
Marine vs. Bovine Collagen
Marine collagen (sourced from fish) is primarily Type I and III — the types most beneficial for skin, hair, and nails. It also has superior bioavailability compared to bovine sources, meaning your body can absorb and use more of it. At Elyxia, we exclusively use wild-caught marine collagen for this reason.
The bottom line: collagen supplementation is not a trend — it is a science-backed approach to supporting your body from within as natural production declines with age.