What is Skin Elasticity and How to Keep Your Skin Firm?

Skin is the largest organ of our body and consists of collagen and elastin.

These two are the main proteins that work together to give the skin its structure, shape, and elasticity. Collagen is more like a “construction” material and elastin is what gives the skin the firm and elastic structure.

However, collagen and elastin production starts to naturally decline progressively in the mid-20s so you may notice some fine lines, wrinkles, and different skin elasticity than before.

What is skin elasticity?

Skin elasticity is the ability of the skin to stretch and snap back immediately and it is determined by your body’s natural collagen and elastin production. It’s directly related to aging and the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and saggy skin.

What causes skin elasticity loss?

Skin elasticity loss is caused naturally as we age because collagen and elastin production starts to decline progressively after the mid-20s. This process is known as “Elastosis” and is just a part of aging. On top, several environmental factors such as UV light, pollution, smoking, excess alcohol, sugar consumption, and stress will affect elastin and collagen production and can contribute to the loss of elasticity.

Sometimes especially in younger people, loss of elasticity can be simply a loss of moisture that will make their skin look dull, dry, and with some fine lines. This can be avoided by drinking enough water and following a simple skincare routine with moisturizing factors that boost collagen production such as hyaluronic acid.

What is considered “good” skin elasticity?

When your skin elasticity is not lost, your skin should be able to snap back immediately after you pinch it.

You can simply test it by pinching and holding an area of your face for a few seconds and then releasing it.

If it bounces immediately back, your elasticity is normal but if it takes some time, this may indicate loss of elasticity or dehydration. If your skin looks saggy, dehydrated, and mature, it is probably due to lost skin elasticity.

Can elastin be restored?

Loss of elastin and collagen is the main reason for skin elasticity loss and they can be restored. You will never be able to produce the same amount of collagen and elastin as in your 20s, but you can restore a great amount that will give a fresh and plump look.

The easiest way to restore your elastin and collagen is by boosting their production. This can be done by using specific active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, and exfoliating acids that will boost your natural collagen production.

Another way to support your skin is by collagen supplements. Oral supplements and especially liquids are absorbed easier via the bloodstream and they are easily digested so they are suitable for almost everyone. It will take you about 40 days to notice the first results of collagen supplements but you will be amazed by how easily some of your deep wrinkles became smoother and how your face looks less tired and dull.