What Is Collagen? The Protein That Keeps You Looking and Feeling Younger

Here’s something most people don’t realise: from around the age of 25, your body begins producing about 1% less collagen every year.

By 40, you may have lost nearly 15% of the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints moving smoothly and your bones strong. Unlike grey hair, you can’t see this decline happening — you simply begin to feel it.

The good news? You’re not powerless against it.

Let’s break down what collagen actually does — and how to choose the right supplement.

What Actually Is Collagen?

Think of collagen as your body’s natural scaffolding.

It’s the most abundant protein in your body, making up roughly 30% of your total protein content. It provides structure, strength and elasticity to tissues throughout the body.

Collagen is found in:

• Skin (for firmness and elasticity)

• Joints (for cushioning and flexibility)

• Bones (for structural strength)

• Tendons and ligaments

• Blood vessels and connective tissue

There are 28 types of collagen, but three are the most important:

Type I – Makes up about 90% of your body’s collagen. Found in skin, bones and tendons.
Type II – Found mainly in cartilage, supporting joint cushioning.
Type III – Works alongside Type I in skin, muscles and blood vessels.

As we age, collagen production slows naturally. Sun exposure, smoking, stress and high sugar intake can accelerate this process.

What Does Collagen Actually Do?

1. Supports Skin Firmness & Hydration

Around 75% of your skin is made up of collagen.

When collagen levels decline, skin becomes thinner and less elastic. Fine lines become more visible, and that natural “bounce” begins to fade.

Research has shown that daily collagen supplementation may support improvements in skin elasticity and hydration over time, with many people noticing changes after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.

2. Keeps Joints Moving Smoothly

Your joints are cushioned by cartilage, which is largely composed of Type II collagen.

As cartilage wears down, joints may feel stiff or uncomfortable. Collagen supplementation has been studied for its role in supporting joint comfort and flexibility, particularly when taken consistently.

3. Supports Bone Strength

Bones are not just minerals — they are built on a collagen framework.

Without adequate collagen support, bones can become more fragile over time. Some studies suggest collagen supplementation may support bone mineral density when combined with regular movement and resistance exercise.

4. Supports Healthy Hair & Nails

Collagen provides key amino acids that help your body produce keratin — the protein that forms hair and nails.

Some studies have shown improvements in nail strength and growth after consistent collagen supplementation over several weeks.

Marine vs Bovine Collagen: What’s the Difference?

Not all collagen is the same. The source matters.

Marine Collagen (From Fish)

Marine collagen is predominantly Type I — the same type that makes up the majority of collagen in your skin.

Because marine collagen contains smaller peptide particles, it is often considered highly bioavailable, meaning it may be absorbed efficiently by the body.

It’s also a sustainable choice, as it typically uses parts of fish that would otherwise go to waste.

This is why Neuvi uses hydrolysed marine collagen — carefully processed to enhance absorption and daily usability.

Bovine Collagen (From Cows)

Contains Type I and Type III collagen. Widely used and effective, though particles may be larger compared to marine sources.

Chicken Collagen

Primarily Type II collagen, often targeted specifically for joint support.

The Takeaway

For those focused on skin, hair and overall structural support, marine collagen’s high concentration of Type I collagen makes it a popular choice.

How to Take Collagen Properly

How Much?

Most research studies use between 5–10g per day.

High-strength formulas, like Neuvi’s 15,000mg liquid serving, are designed to deliver a concentrated daily dose.

When Should You Take It?

Timing matters less than consistency.

Morning or evening — the key is taking it daily.

How Long Until You Notice Results?

Collagen is not an overnight fix. Your body needs time to absorb and rebuild.

Typical timelines observed in studies:

• Skin hydration: 4–8 weeks

• Skin elasticity: 8–12 weeks

• Joint comfort: 8–12 weeks

• Nail strength: 6–8 weeks

• Hair thickness: 12–16 weeks

Consistency is everything.

The Bottom Line

Collagen production naturally declines as we age. This can show up as reduced skin elasticity, joint stiffness or weaker nails.

High-quality collagen supplementation — particularly hydrolysed marine collagen — may support your body’s natural structure when taken consistently.

The key is choosing a premium source and committing to daily use.

Ready to Start Your Collagen Ritual?

Neuvi’s high-strength 15,000mg hydrolysed marine collagen is crafted for daily consistency and long-term support — helping you feel confident in your skin at every stage.

Simple Ritual. Lasting Glow.