12 Ways to Increase Skin Elasticity

Skin aging is a natural process, and there comes a time when you start to notice your skin sagging a bit. Have you ever wondered why this happens? Well, as you age, your skin gradually loses its elasticity, a condition known as elastosis. Maintaining skin elasticity is crucial to maintaining youthful, healthy skin. Without it, you may experience sagging skin, wrinkles, dryness, and dullness. Areas of skin exposed to the sun are especially prone to elastosis. While loss of skin elasticity is a natural part of aging, there are several effective ways to combat these effects and delay the signs of skin aging.

12 Ways to Increase Skin Elasticity

Here are some tips that can help you increase the elasticity of your skin and keep it healthy and glowing:

1. Collagen supplements

Collagen is a key protein that maintains the structure, firmness, and elasticity of your skin. As you age, collagen production decreases, causing wrinkles and sagging. However, taking collagen supplements, usually in the form of powders or capsules, can help restore collagen levels in your body. A study published in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology suggests that taking collagen supplements regularly can improve skin elasticity, firmness, and hydration, and reduce wrinkles.

2. Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the skin and helps retain moisture. “It acts as a humectant, attracting water to the skin and keeping it hydrated. However, too little can lead to dry, aging, and sagging skin,” explains dermatologist Dr. Ishmeet Kaur. To restore skin elasticity, you can use topical hyaluronic acid products, as they can increase hydration, explains a study published in Dermato-endocrinology. Try serums or creams with hyaluronic acid regularly to maintain optimal levels of skin hydration.

3. Antioxidants

Free radical damage is linked to a variety of chronic health problems, including cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, cataracts, cancer, and skin problems. Research published in Pharmacognosy Reviews shows that antioxidants can protect the skin from free radicals, which can accelerate skin aging and reduce elasticity. Topical antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, along with green tea extract, can neutralize these damaging free radicals and aid in the skin repair process. Incorporate antioxidant-rich skin care products, such as creams and serums, to reduce fine lines and improve overall skin texture.

Read also: 6 Antioxidant-Rich Foods for Your Skin

4. Vitamin C

“Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role not only in collagen synthesis but also in increasing hyaluronic acid levels,” says Dr. Kaur. It helps protect the skin from UV damage and supports the repair of damaged skin cells. Regular use of vitamin C serums or creams can brighten the skin, reduce dark spots, and improve elasticity.

5. Retinol and retinoids

Retinol and retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A, known for their anti-aging benefits. Using topical retinol skin care products, combined with vitamin C, can promote cell turnover, increase collagen production, and improve skin texture, according to a study published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. So, add retinol or retinoid products to your daily skin care routine to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.

6. Sunscreen

Sun exposure is a major cause of skin aging and loss of elasticity. UV rays can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to premature aging. To protect your skin from the sun and prevent signs of aging, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days, suggests the Skin Cancer Foundation. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you swim or sweat. Sunscreen helps prevent further damage and maintains skin’s elasticity over time.

Health Shots recommends: Best Mineral Sunscreens: 10 Picks for Effective UV Protection

7. Witch Hazel Extract

“Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help tighten skin and reduce inflammation,” says the expert. It has antioxidant properties that can help improve skin texture and tone. Applying witch hazel extract in the form of toners or serums can help tighten skin and reduce wrinkles, according to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science. It also helps soothe irritated skin and reduce the appearance of pores, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

8. Cocoa flavanols

Cocoa flavanols are compounds found in cocoa beans that offer powerful antioxidant properties. They help improve skin hydration and elasticity, improve blood flow, and reduce oxidative stress. Consuming flavanol-rich dark chocolate or cocoa supplements can support skin health and protect against damage caused by environmental factors, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. Not all chocolates contain high amounts of cocoa flavanols, so always read the label.

9. Healthy diet

A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats is essential for maintaining skin elasticity. “Antioxidant-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can help fight free radical damage. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts, and seeds, support skin hydration and elasticity,” suggests Dr. Kaur. A diet that includes plenty of whole foods and minimizes processed foods can contribute to healthier, softer, more supple skin.

10. Facial exercises

Facial exercises, also known as facial yoga, can help tone and strengthen the muscles under the skin. They can improve blood circulation and increase the firmness and elasticity of the skin around the face and neck, says a study published in the Journal of Korean Physical Therapy. You need to practice facial exercises regularly to see significant results.

11. Medical treatments

Various medical treatments, such as chemical peels, laser treatments, and platelet-rich plasma, can significantly improve skin elasticity.
Chemical peels help exfoliate the skin and stimulate collagen production. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections involve injecting a concentration of platelets from your own blood into your face to promote healing and collagen formation. Laser treatments, a combination of two laser therapy techniques such as nonablative fractional laser (NAFL) and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, show positive effects on skin tone and collagen production to improve skin texture and elasticity, according to a study published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. Consult a dermatologist to find out which treatment is best for your skin concerns.

Read also: 8 Reasons Why Your Skin Needs Collagen & How to Get It!

12. Herbs

Herbs like aloe vera, green tea, and chamomile have been used for centuries for their soothing and healing properties on the skin. Aloe vera contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that promote skin elasticity and hydration, according to a study published in the Annals of Dermatology. Apply it topically to boost skin repair and soothe irritation. Other herbs, like green tea and chamomile, also offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that support skin health.

Tips to prevent loss of skin elasticity

1. Limit sun exposure

Excessive sun exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and causes premature aging of the skin. Protect your skin by wearing long sleeves, staying in the shade, applying sunscreen, and avoiding peak hours of the sun.

2. Eat antioxidants

A diet rich in antioxidants helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Include antioxidant-rich foods such as broccoli, kale, spinach, carrots, and potatoes in your diet to support healthy skin.

3. Quit smoking

“Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and depletes essential nutrients, leading to premature aging and loss of skin elasticity,” says Dr. Kaur. It can also damage elastin and collagen fibers. So, quit smoking now to reduce damage and improve your skin’s appearance and overall health.

4. Get enough sleep

Quality sleep is essential not only for your health, but also for your skin. It helps your skin repair and regenerate. Try to sleep 7-9 hours a night to allow your skin to recover and maintain its elasticity.

5. Manage stress

Chronic stress can negatively impact skin health by increasing the production of cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to support skin health.

Keep these tips in mind to prevent skin elasticity and follow the above-mentioned tips to increase it and maintain healthy skin!