If there is one thing we all know for sure, it's that our skin goes through many changes as we age. While society often tries to make us feel that aging is undesirable, the ancient science of Ayurveda tells us that this is a beautiful part of life that we should embrace. Ayurveda also teaches us many ways to maintain our skin’s health so that we can enjoy a glowing complexion throughout the many stages we experience. 

One of the main building blocks of healthy skin is collagen. Collagen is a protein that is naturally found in our skin, bones, tendons, and other connective tissues. It plays a critical role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of our skin and tissues, as well as supporting the growth and repair of our bones and joints. However, the amount and quality of collagen in our bodies change as we age, particularly for women as they go through different stages of life. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how collagen changes throughout the stages of a woman's life.

Childhood and Adolescence

During childhood and adolescence, our bodies are still growing and developing, and collagen production is at its peak. This is why children and teenagers typically have strong bones, healthy skin, and shiny hair. However, it's important to note that environmental factors, such as sun exposure and a poor diet, can still damage collagen even at a young age.

How to support collagen production at this stage: 

During childhood and adolescence, the focus should be on maintaining healthy collagen levels rather than increasing them. This can be achieved by getting enough vitamin C and zinc in the diet, as these nutrients are important for collagen production. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can also provide the body with the necessary building blocks for collagen.

Early Adulthood

In our 20s and 30s, collagen production begins to slow down, and the quality of our collagen may decrease. This can lead to the first signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, as well as a loss of elasticity in the skin. However, with a healthy lifestyle and a consistent skincare routine, it's still possible to maintain healthy collagen levels.

How to support collagen production at this stage:

During these years, it's important to maintain healthy collagen levels through a combination of diet and lifestyle habits. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in collagen-boosting nutrients, such as vitamin C, zinc, and protein, and avoiding behaviors that can damage collagen, such as smoking and excessive sun exposure. Using skincare products with collagen-boosting ingredients, such as retinol and vitamin C, can also help to maintain healthy collagen levels.

Pregnancy and Postpartum

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes that can affect collagen production. As a result, some people may experience changes in their skin and hair during pregnancy, such as increased acne or hair loss. After giving birth, collagen levels may also take some time to recover, especially if the person experienced significant weight gain or loss during pregnancy.

How to support collagen production at this stage:

During pregnancy and postpartum, it's important to support collagen production by eating a balanced diet rich in collagen-boosting nutrients, such as vitamin C, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. Staying hydrated and getting enough rest can also help to support collagen levels. After giving birth, gentle exercise, such as walking and yoga, can help to stimulate collagen production and support postpartum recovery. Incorporating products with hyaluronic acid, an ingredient that is deemed safe to use during pregnancy, can help maintain skin’s elasticity and hydration. 

Menopause

Menopause marks a significant shift in a person's hormonal balance, which can lead to a decline in collagen production. This can result in a loss of skin elasticity, thinning hair, and weaker bones. However, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to maintain collagen levels and support bone health during this time.

How to support collagen production at this stage:

During menopause, it's important to take steps to support collagen production and maintain bone health. This includes eating a diet rich in collagen-boosting nutrients, such as vitamin C, protein, and calcium, and engaging in weight-bearing exercises, such as walking and strength training, to support bone density. Using skincare products with collagen-boosting ingredients, such as retinol and peptides, can also help to maintain healthy collagen levels in the skin.