What do collagen and elastin do?

Patricia Farris, MD

Dermatology

Collagen and elastin are fibers that make up the supporting structure of the skin. Collagen gives skin its firmness while elastin keeps skin tight. Both of these fibers are plentiful in young skin and start to break down with natural aging and as a result of sun exposure.

While there are lots of collagen and elastin creams available these molecules are far too large to penetrate the skin. The only way to boost collagen and elastin in the skin is to turn on the fibroblast cells that produce these fibers. This can be done using cosmeceuticals containing prescription retinoids, retinol, alpha hydroxys or peptides and by having procedures like microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser resurfacing. This combination of cosmeceuticals, sunscreen and in office procedures is the best way to keep your skin looking young, firm and tight.

Stuart A. Linder, MD

Plastic Surgery

Collagen and elastin are the structure of the skin that maintains both elasticity and firmness. Fibroblast cells create both collagen and elastin matrix that can be activated by glycolic acid and other peels. The special fibroblast cells are found in the papillary level of the second layer of the skin (dermis). Many creams and lotions are marketed to promote collagen formation by fibroblastic activiation.

Dr. Ellen Marmur, MD

Dermatology

The fibroblast cells' extremely important function is to make collagen and elastin (the darlings of the cosmeceutical world). The skin's healing process is driven by these cells, which race to repair skin by making a scar or replenishing collagen to rebuild the structural integrity of the skin. It's probably no surprise to learn that as we age these cells get lazy and slow down production of this coveted protein.

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Collagen, a protein, supports and your body's tissues and, literally, keeps your body from falling apart. Collagen is the primary component of the body's connective tissue. About 80% of the dermis -- the part of your skin that's under the epidermis (outer layer) -- is collagen. Collagen gives your skin strength. Elastin, as its name implies, enables your skin to stretch and bounce back; it is elastic.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Healthy Skin

Staying out of the sun and away from tanning beds is the easiest way to get great-looking skin. The suns UVB and UVA rays cause skin damage, which is prematurely aging, and skin cancer. Every day you should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks UVB and UVA rays, with an SPF of 15 or higher. Reapply at least every two hours while outdoors. For a dewy glow, use skin-care products with 10 ingredients or less to reduce irritation, use moisturizer and feed your skin from within. Dark chocolate and antioxidant-rich foods such as cantaloupe, citrus fruits, blueberries and leafy greens improve the skin’s appearance.

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