5 Sneaky Signs of Collagen Loss (And What You Can Actually Do About It)

Think your glow is dimming a bit? These subtle signs of collagen loss could be the reason—and yes, there are ways to fight back.

Hey Talkers! Let’s talk collagen—because if your skin’s been looking a little less glowy lately, this magical protein (or rather, the loss of it) could be the culprit. And don't worry, you're not alone. I swear, every other TikTok or skincare ad I see is about collagen—and for good reason.

Collagen is basically the scaffolding that keeps our skin lifted, bouncy, and youthful. It’s the most abundant protein in our bodies, especially in the skin, where it makes up a wild 75% of its dry weight. But here’s the catch: starting around age 25, we lose about 1% of collagen every year. (Yep… even if you’re religious about your SPF.)

So how do you know when it’s starting to show? Let’s break down the 5 key signs of collagen loss—and what you can actually do to slow it down or support your skin through it.

1. Your Skin Looks Thinner or More Delicate

Ever noticed your skin looking more… fragile? That’s collagen loss at work. As we lose collagen, the skin starts to thin out—especially under the eyes and around the cheeks. If makeup isn’t sitting quite the same or your skin bruises more easily, this could be why.

Pro tip: Look for skincare with peptides or retinoids—they can help encourage your skin to produce more collagen over time.

2. Wrinkles Are More Noticeable—Especially Around the Mouth or Eyes

Not all wrinkles are created equal. If you're seeing more fine lines turn into deeper creases, particularly in places where the skin moves a lot (like smile lines or crow’s feet), that’s collagen waving the white flag. Without that cushiony support, those lines become more permanent.

Collagen booster idea: Vitamin C serums are your BFF here. They not only brighten your skin, but they also help protect and stimulate collagen production.

3. Your Skin Isn’t as Firm or Bouncy

The term “snatched” sadly doesn’t apply forever. If your jawline starts to soften or your cheeks aren’t quite as perky, that’s a sign your collagen levels are dipping. Skin just doesn’t bounce back the same way it used to.

Try adding firming masks or tools like gua sha or microcurrent devices to keep things lifted and support lymphatic drainage too.

4. You’re Feeling Drier Than Usual

Collagen helps skin retain moisture—so if you’re constantly reaching for moisturizer and still feeling parched, it might be a collagen issue (not just the weather or your water intake).

Look for hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid that work well with collagen-boosting ingredients. Bonus points for drinking collagen powder with added ceramides or hydration support.

5. Wounds Take Longer to Heal

This one surprised me too—but collagen plays a major role in wound repair. So if you're finding that scrapes, breakouts, or even a little paper cut are taking longer to fade, it could be a subtle clue.

Nourish from the inside: collagen-rich foods like bone broth, eggs, citrus fruits, and leafy greens all support natural production.

Final Thoughts

Let’s be real—we can’t completely stop the clock on collagen loss, but we can slow it down and support our skin as it changes. Whether you’re team serum, team supplement, or team all-of-the-above (like me!), just know that paying attention early is the best move.

Have you noticed any of these changes in your skin? Tried any collagen tricks that actually work? Let me know in the comments—I love sharing product recs and real-talk skincare tips!