Do you have any idea what the 'extracellular matrix' is? Does that sound like something you'd see on the sci fi channel? What about collagen? Elastin? Laminin? What do you know about these things besides remembering seeing them on bottles of shower gel and moisturizer? If you are worried about wrinkles, it is a really good idea to understand how your skin works and how we can help it be even more efficient.

All animal tissues have a 'matrix', which their cells are immersed in. This serves various important functions. Some of the most important ones are the growth of new cells, giving structure to the inner layers of our skin, and healing our wounds. This important substance is called the extracellular matrix. Inside this matrix we have various different components that help our skin to look soft, flexible and radiant. Some of these help maintain its durability, and others help it stay moist. One of the substances found here, and one of the strongest proteins found in nature, is collagen. Since collagen is so strong, it strengthens our skin and gives it durability. Coincidentally, it is also the most abundant protein in our body. Another significant protein chain is elastin. Elastin is a more flexible protein (not as strong as collagen) that helps our skin stretch, move, and then regain its original shape again. There are also two different substances which help our skin stay moist and fresh. These are called glycosoaminoglycans (or GAGs for short) and proteoglycans. These substances are very similar to the texture of mucus, and they are important because they hold water in our skin.

As long as all of these components are working properly in our skin, our skin will remain youthful-looking and radiant. Remember that all the substances in the extracellular matrix are necessary for our skin to keep its structure and stay moisturized. However, the problem begins when, due to pollution, exposure to the elements, and just plain old aging, the body doesn't make as many of these proteins as quickly anymore, thus weakening the extracellular matrix. The development of collagen and elastin and moisture holding molecules is naturally reduced as people get older. The cells get worn out, and since the body isn't producing as many new ones, our skin begins to lose the fresh, radiant complexion it used to have.

Helping your Skin Help Itself

As I had talked about earlier, one of the major causes of this deterioration of the extracellular matrix is pollution and sun exposure, so be careful when exposing yourself to the elements. Quit smoking if you haven't already done so, and don't forget to always wear sunscreen. And of course, by now you have more than likely heard about the amazing new developments by scientists into the unbelievable properties of biological ingredients found in nature when applied topically to these affected areas. In case you haven't heard, people are hurrying to buy these skin care products because their biological ingredients (such as the secretions that snails produce to protect themselves) have been found to enhance the production of new collagen and elastin within the extracellular matrix. If you haven't been able to try any of these natural products yet, make sure you find some and try them out also, because dedicating yourself to applying them several times a day, and protecting yourself from harmful UV rays when outside, will help you to repair damaged skin before it's too late!