You’ve likely heard of elastin and have a vague sense that it’s essential for healthy skin. But what is elastin exactly? Why is it important? And what can you do to protect your own elastin fiber reserves? This post answers those questions—and more.
Elastin, defined
Elastin is a protein found in the skin, lungs, intestines and blood vessels that enables that tissue to s-t-r-e-t-c-h and snap back. Elastin is often compared to a rubber band because of this ability to expand, retract, and retain its shape.
What happens to elastin fibers in skin as we age Like an elastic waistband in a favorite pair of sweatpants, elastin fibers will loosen and weaken over time. Some elastin degradation occurs naturally, because of intrinsic aging. But UV exposure, pollution, smoking, and even a poor diet can all accelerate the breakdown of elastin fibers. Also, as we age, we don’t regenerate elastin, so maintaining what we do have is very important. Unlike hair or nails, alas, we can’t just grow out damaged fibers and start over.
The difference between elastin and collagen
Elastin is often mentioned in the same breath as collagen, especially when it comes to aging skin. And it’s true that they’re both proteins that play a part in maintaining a plump, firm, youthful-looking complexion. But elastin and collagen fibers' roles are different. Elastin is responsible for making the skin, well, elastic, while collagen gives skin its structure and shape. Also, while the production of both proteins declines with age (that’s why older skin sags and grows slack), preserving and improving collagen production has proved an easier task than finding topical solutions to improve the condition of elastin. Until now.
How to improve your skin’s elasticity
Wearing sunscreen, not smoking, eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of sleep all help slow down the degradation of elastin. But Neolastin’s NUFLEX™technology takes things a step further. It combines a powerful, proprietary antioxidant with a patented micro-hyaluronic acid delivery system to stimulate collagen production—and strengthen existing elastin by depositing new elastin fibers in the skin’s lower layer to improve their stretch and snap-back. The result: more elastic skin in as little as 28 days. Developed by a team of scientists from Clemson University, the NUFLEX™ technology is exclusive to Neolastin skincare products:
Face & Neck Regenerative Serum
This lightweight, fast-absorbing serum instantly saturates the skin, diminishing the appearance of pores, fine lines and other minor imperfections. Over time, it will also help improve skin firmness and elasticity.
Rejuvenate and Hydrate Moisturizing Cream
Thanks to its plush, cushiony texture, this cream bathes your skin in silky moisture, plumping, smoothing, softening, boosting radiance—and firming and tightening the skin.
Minimize circles, bags, wrinkles, and other eye-area concerns with this velvety, firming eye cream.