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Collagen and elastin are structural proteins made and used in the human body. Collagen is found
primarily in tendons, ligaments, and the connective tissue of skin, blood vessels, and lungs. Elastin is
found primarily in the artery walls, lungs, intestines, and skin. These proteins work in partnership in
connective tissues.
Collagen gives connective tissue and organs rigidity so that they can function, and elastin lets them
stretch and return to their original state. Collagen does not allow the elastin to stretch to the point of
breaking. In the skin, collagen and elastin are the primary components of the dermis--the layer right
beneath the epidermis. They provide the support structure of the skin
Significance
The human body stops producing elastin when you hit puberty. This is when the aging process begins.
Without elastin replenishment, collagen begins to lose its elasticity and begins to weaken. The loss of
the skin's tone and resiliency are the most common visual markers of this process. Facial expressions
begin to put stress on collagen and after a period of time, wrinkles begin to appear.
Injectable Fillers
Collagen can be used as an anti-aging agent in the form of an injectable filler. The filler is placed right
beneath the surface of the skin. This collagen replenishes the support structure of the skin by
supplementing existing collagen and restoring the contour of the skin. Injectable fillers will smooth facial
lines and most scars.