How the Elastin Content of Human Skin Reflects Your Age

Ever wondered why the elastin content of human skin varies?  On the face, scientists have measured the percentage of different protein fibers using advanced equipment.  The results showed that the elastin in skin averages around 6%.  The collagen fibers account for about 48%.  But, the amount varied significantly from one person to the next.

Only 17 patients participated in the study.  They were of various ages.  Both men and women participated, but neither age nor sex accounted for the differences seen in the elastin content of human skin.

Other than collagen and elastin in skin, we also have fat cells and keratinized cells.  Keratin makes up more than 90% of the cells in the epidermis.  The elastic fibers are found in the dermis layer.

The epidermis is composed of five or six layers of keratinized cells, depending on the area being examined.  5-10% of the make-up is melanin, a hormone and pigment.  There is more melanin in darker-skinned individuals; less in fair-skinned.

The cheeks contain more fat and six layers of epidermis cover the dermis in that area.  The area beneath the eyes has the least amount of fat and only five layers of epidermis.  The collagen and elastin in skin beneath the eyes is lower, which is why the area becomes easily stretched by fluid and becomes baggy looking.

It is a common belief that the elastin content of human skin becomes lower with age.  Some scientists theorize that the reduction is due to hormonal changes.  Others believe that inflammatory processes are involved.  Still others say that the reason for the reduction in collagen and elastin in skin fibers is due to free radical damage.  All of these things may actually be involved.

The question that many people want to know is this.  Is it possible to increase the collagen and elastin content of human skin in order to delay or reverse the aging process?

Topically applied creams containing specific nutrients have been shown to increase the number of cells in the epidermis.  Others have been shown to increase the amount of collagen.  Measuring the elastin in skin is much more difficult.

Since, the protein accounts for only about 6% of the elastic fibers in the skin’s dermis, we can assume that it plays only a small role in the skin’s firmness.  Collagens are less elastic, which seems to indicate that they are primarily responsible for firmness.

Another compound called hyaluronic acid plays a role in smoothness and firmness, too.  It is the glue that holds the keratin cells together.  The amount present in the epidermis is known to decrease with age.

In addition, it is known that the number of free radicals in the skin’s layers increases as we get older and the number of antioxidants gets lower.  Inflammation can do damage to the collagen fibers, as well.

So in conclusion, all of these things contribute to an aged appearance.  The elastin content of human skin as we age is only one factor.   The better creams address many of the different issues, instead of just one.

You can learn more skin care insights by visiting my web site and discovering more natural ingredients I personally use daily.

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