It has also been linked to hormones, with peak collagen production aligning with peak fertility. “Women experience a further dramatic reduction in the production of collagen with the onset of menopause,” reveals Granite.

Collagen creams are great, because they can help to improve the appearance of the skin as they can replenish the collagen lost with ageing or due to environmental aggressors, by helping to restore the structure and elasticity of the skin.

It’s important to note that studies shows that applying collagen topically is yet to be proven as direct stimulant for collagen synthesis or growth, because collagens have molecular weights too large to penetrate the top layer of skin. So although collagen creams can help improve the appearance of the skin, it’s likely they’ll be unable to fully reverse signs of ageing and skin damage.

How do you boost collagen in your skin?

That’s the big question, but before you jump in, make sure you’re going down the right path. “The best type of collagen for the skin is Type I collagen,” explains cosmetic dermatologist Professor Firas Al-Niaimi. “This is the most abundant form of collagen found in the body and is primarily responsible for providing the strength, structure and firmness of the skin.”

So if you’re already mourning the inevitable slowing of collagen production, the good news is that it’s never too late to switch to these collagen-boosting solutions.

Use sunscreen daily

UV exposure plays a major part in the degradation of our collagen levels. “If you are really good with your UV protection and wear it daily, whether it’s cloudy or not, it’s the single biggest thing you can do to push out the collagen slowdown,” says Neuser. So don’t forget to layer in your SPF.

Snack smart

Anyone for bone broth? Made from collagen-rich bones, the broth is broken down into amino acids in the gut. These are then used as building blocks to produce more collagen. Still not keen? “The best sources of these amino acids include egg whites, meat and cheese, while cabbage is a vegetarian option,” says nutritionist Grace Barnes. “Other supporting nutrients for collagen production include vitamin C (strawberries broccoli, oranges, peppers); copper (shellfish, nuts and red meat); vitamin A (liver, egg yolks, carrots and sweet potatoes).” she adds. Ultimately, having a diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is essential, especially foods high in vitamin C.

Exercise regularly

Whether a virtual HIIT class, reformer pilates or park run is your favoured way to work out, exercise can have a positive impact, says Granite. Increasing oxygen and blood supply makes for healthier skin. When the bloody circulation is increased, collagen production can be stimulated and this leads to firmer and improve skin elasticity.

No smoking

We all know by now that smoking damages our skin. Specifically, smoke and toxins unleash free radicals that cause oxidative damage to the skin, which limits collagen production. Smoking can expose your body and skin to harmful chemicals, which can damage the collagen in your skin and break down important structural proteins.

So long, sugar

“Excessive sugar consumption may lead to glycation, a process that can cause collagen to become weak and brittle and therefore reduce its effect on skin elasticity, leading to signs of premature ageing,” explains Barnes.