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As we age, our skin gradually loses firmness, making fine lines and dryness more noticeable. While this is a normal part of ageing, there are ways to address these changes and maintain a smooth, plump and hydrated complexion.
In this guide, we explore why skin loses elasticity, how to maintain or support firmness and key skincare ingredients and lifestyle habits that may promote a more youthful-looking, radiant appearance.
What happens when your skin loses elasticity?
Skin elasticity is the skin’s ability to stretch and bounce back to its original shape. When elasticity declines — a condition known as elastosis — the skin becomes looser, resulting in a sagging appearance and more pronounced fine lines and wrinkles. This occurs due to the breakdown of elastin and collagen fibres, two key proteins that provide structural support and resilience to the skin.
Aside from natural ageing, various other factors can impact the skin’s appearance and accelerate loss of skin elasticity, including lifestyle habits, sun exposure and environmental stressors like pollution.
Can skin elasticity be restored?
Loss of elasticity is a natural part of ageing, and unfortunately, it can’t be fully restored. However, there are ways to slow down the process and maintain firmer-looking skin.
Incorporating targeted skincare ingredients, getting professional treatments and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help support skin elasticity, keeping your skin looking hydrated, smooth and radiant for longer.
How to potentially improve skin elasticity
A comprehensive skincare routine can help support skin elasticity. This includes using hydrating and protective ingredients, such as those listed below, to shield the skin from external stressors and maintain moisture balance.
1. Hydrating ingredients that support a plump and smooth look
Hydration is key in maintaining your skin’s plump and soft appearance. These ingredients help retain moisture and support a fresh, dewy complexion:
• Hyaluronic acid — A naturally occurring molecule that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It is commonly found in moisturisers and serums designed to replenish surface hydration, making your skin look more supple.
• Glycerin — A moisture-attracting humectant that helps maintain a vibrant appearance while reducing the look of dryness and fine lines.
2. Antioxidants that help protect against environmental stressors
Daily exposure to external elements, such as UV rays and pollution, can affect your skin. Antioxidants help defend against external aggressors, supporting a fresher, healthier-looking complexion:
• Vitamin C — Known for its brightening effects, vitamin C is often included in serums and moisturisers to help skin look more even-toned and radiant.
• Vitamin E — This is a potent antioxidant that helps minimise visible signs of premature ageing caused by free radical damage.
3. Ingredients that help skin look refreshed
For a more rejuvenated complexion, these ingredients are often incorporated into skincare formulations:
• Peptides — Peptides are protein fragments that may help lift and tighten facial contours, giving you a more sculpted look.
• Niacinamide (vitamin B3) — Vitamin B3 helps support the skin barrier, refine the appearance of pores and contribute to a more even-looking appearance.
• Retinal (vitamin A derivative) — Retinal is a next-generation form of vitamin A that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a smoother and more refined look.
Consistent sun protection plays a large role in protecting skin from visible signs of ageing. Daily application of broad-spectrum SPF helps to maintain a more even skin tone and smooth complexion. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that suit your skin type and offer at least SPF 30 for daily wear.
General skincare routine to maintain skin elasticity
While the ideal regimen varies for everyone, the following essential steps are beneficial for most skin types:
• Cleanse gently — Use a mild cleanser to remove dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
• Hydrate and nourish — Apply a serum or moisturiser with hyaluronic acid, peptides or niacinamide to maintain hydration.
Use antioxidants — Incorporate a vitamin C or A serum to help minimise the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles while promoting a brighter complexion.
• Protect with SPF — Apply sunscreen daily to shield the skin from environmental stressors and UV damage.
• Don’t forget nighttime care — Choose a nourishing night cream with replenishing ingredients like ceramides.
Individual skincare results may vary, so it's best to consult a dermatologist for personalised guidance, especially if you have specific skin concerns.
Lifestyle tips for healthy, radiant-looking skin — the best ways to improve skin elasticity
Skincare is half the battle — your daily habits and lifestyle play a major role in how your skin looks.
• Stay hydrated — Drinking plenty of water helps keep skin looking plump and refreshed.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet — A diet filled with vitamins and healthy fats can contribute to a luminous, dewy complexion.
• Get quality sleep — Rest allows the skin to look well-rested and refreshed.
• Minimise stress — Stress management techniques like meditation or gentle exercise can help maintain a healthy-looking glow.
Achieve bright, youthful-looking skin with Medik8
A smooth, supple appearance starts with a combination of hydration, nourishing ingredients and daily protection. Explore our bestselling collection of skincare solutions at Medik8 and create a routine tailored to your needs — whether it’s potentially boosting skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of dark spots or restoring moisture to dry, dehydrated skin.
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