Elastin is a vital protein that maintains the structure and elasticity of your skin. Elastin constitutes about 25 percent of the total protein count in your body. As you age, it decreases. This causes wrinkles and fine lines to form. A decrease in elastin can also make your skin sag. Knowing how to increase this important protein will help you keep your skin youthful and healthy. Fortunately, there are a few methods you can apply to help replace the elastin in your skin.
Step 1
Take vitamin C. To help replace elastin and maintain the cellular structures that keep the fibers of your skin healthy and strong, take a vitamin C supplement every day, recommends Dr. Christopher Hobbs, author of "Vitamins for Dummies." Vitamin C is needed in the production of elastin. A deficiency in vitamin C can weaken elastin fibers. In addition to your vitamin C supplements, consume foods high in vitamin C. Dietary sources of vitamin C include all citrus fruits, broccoli, kiwi fruit and bell peppers.
Step 2
Exfoliate your skin with a good exfoliating cream. Exfoliation involves sloughing off the dead skin layers from the surface of your skin. This process stimulates the formation of new elastin and gives your skin a more youthful appearance. When buying these types of creams, make sure they contain glycolic acid, which helps remove dead skin cells. Read and follow the directions on the packaging before applying it to your skin.
Step 3
Eat foods high in protein. The elastin in your skin as well as your muscles is made up of proteins. Include two to three servings daily of healthy foods high in protein---such as nuts, cottage cheese, milk and soy bean products (soy milk and tofu)---to help stimulate the production of elastin.
Step 4
Apply sunscreen. Put on sunscreen every day to protect your skin from the rays of the sun, which can break down elastin. Buy sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher and apply it liberally into your skin one hour before heading outside.
Things You'll Need
- Vitamin C tablets
- Exfoliating cream
References
- "User's Guide to Vitamin C: Learn What You Need to Know About How Vitamin C Can Improve Your Total Health"; Hyla Cass, M.D., Jim English and Jack Challem; 2002
- "Age-less: The Definitive Guide to Botox, Collagen, Lasers, Peels and Other Solutions for Flawless Skin"; Fredric Brandt, M.D.; 2002
- Williams Syndrome Foundation: The Nature of Elastin
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