Looking to get firmer, wrinkle-free skin? Then elastin is a vital element that you’ll want to know more about.
This protein lives in the dermis and maintains both the elasticity and firmness of the skin. We’ll explain what it is, share its fantastic skincare benefits, and tell you how you can increase your skin’s elasticity.
Table of Contents
What Is Elastin & What Does It Do For Your Skin?
Elastin is a skin protein combined with microfibrils to form elastic fibers, which give the skin flexibility.
The body produces it naturally, and you can find it in the arteries, lungs, tendons, ligaments, and, of course, the skin.
In the face, it allows you to make facial expressions, provides a smooth, firm jawline, and promotes youthful-looking and supple skin.
The protein lends elasticity and resilience to various tissues in the body. It is highly supple, allowing body tissues to resume their shape after stretching or contracting. You can find the ‘stretchy’ and flexible protein in connective tissue, and it works to repair the skin’s surface.
This protein is also the property of your skin that lets it bounce back when stretched, giving it strength. This makes it vital for scar healing and firmer skin.
When your body doesn’t have enough elasticity, it can lead to aging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Why Does Skin Elasticity Change?
As one gets older, the skin naturally loses the protein that gives it the ability to stretch. This process is known as elastosis.
Factors that can affect your body’s production of this protein include:
- sun exposure
- air pollution
- extreme weight loss
- poor nutrition
- smoking
- genetics
There are, however, products and other methods that you can use to increase the amount of elastin you have in your skin and body.
How To Increase Your Skin’s Elastin: Products To Use
1. Retinoid Products
In skincare, elasticity-promoting products include retinoids like tretinoin. Tretinoin and other retinoids may heal damaged elastic fibers and improve the production of the flexible protein. You can find retinoids in gel, cream, serum, and liquid forms.
2. Sun Protection
Sun protection is a must for good skin health and to prevent premature aging. Sunscreen acts as an anti-aging cream and protects the skin against wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
3. Collagen-Rich Products
Collagen and elastin work hand-in-hand, although they have different skin benefits and functions. Collagen forms the foundation and structure of the skin, providing strength. Elastic fibers provide flexibility and, well, elasticity.
By improving the skin’s foundation with collagen treatments and products, you can enhance both strength and elasticity. To do this, you can use collagen supplements, creams, and lotions.
4. Antioxidants
Using products with a combination of antioxidants can also help. For example, using vitamin A supplements may improve the production of elastin by 300%.
These supplements may neutralize free radicals, which break down collagen. They also improve the elasticity and texture of the skin.
5. Hydroxy & Hyaluronic acids
Skincare products containing alpha-hydroxy acids can improve elasticity, lines, wrinkles, and texture to promote cell renewal.
Hyaluronic acid increases the skin’s hydration, leading to plumper skin, increasing elasticity, and combatting anti-aging.
Does It Have Any Side Effects?
The supplements and products may have side effects like:
- Heartburn
- An allergic reaction or skin irritation
- Mild diarrhea
- Rashes
- Stomach upsets
Side effects may also arise from the ingredient itself. For example, using hyaluronic acid injections may cause bleeding, blistering, skin discoloration, and more.
Other Methods To Boost Skin Elasticity
Using skincare products isn’t the only way you can improve your skin’s elasticity. Treatments like micro-needling, skin tightening, and anti-aging radiofrequency sessions may firm up skin and help increase elasticity.
You can also add elasticity-aiding foods like:
- Fish
- Chicken
- Egg whites
- Citrus fruits
- Berries
- Red and yellow vegetables
- Garlic
Key Takeaways
Environmental factors and age play a role in diminishing the skin’s elasticity. Daily skincare products and treatments can help regain it. Including supplements and natural foods in your diet and routine can also help.
Not just that! A healthy lifestyle, including enough sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet, is essential for retaining elasticity and reducing the effects of aging.
So, if you want fuller, firmer skin for longer, consider how you can live an elastin-boosting lifestyle from today.