Why are collagen and elastin so important to maintaining a youthful appearance?
Collagen is the most plentiful protein in the body. Its molecules take the form of a triple helix. Collagen creates cables and networks that strengthen tendons and support the skin, bones, joints and organs. A collagen matrix gives facial tissues its form and fullness. Collagen production decreases and its networks become less flexible as the body ages. This is the main cause of facial wrinkles and loss of youthful tone. Elastin, also located in the dermis, holds the collagen bundles together and gives structure to the skin. When time and elements decrease the body’s ability to produce elastin, the skin wrinkles and sags.
Collagen is considered the fountain of youth because it wards off fine lines and wrinkles. As much as 75 percent of the dermis layer of the skin (the substantial second layer that is protected by the translucent outer layer called the epidermis) is made up collagen. Aging, exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors diminish the body’s ability to produce collagen. Skin becomes thinner and loses its flexibility. Elastin, also located in the dermis, holds the collagen bundles together and gives structure to the skin. When time and elements decrease the body’s ability to produce elastin, the skin wrinkles and sags. Collagen and elastin also are important because they bind the skin to the fatty layer beneath the dermis, called the hypodermis or subcutis.
