Protein. The human skin is made up of two proteins; elastin and collagen. Elastin allows the skin to stretch and collagen gives skin structure. Unfortunately, as you age your body slows down production of these proteins, and your skin starts to sag.
Collagen and elastin are two essential proteins associated with skin firmness. The production of these two proteins decreases as people age .
For example, eating too much sugar and processed carbohydrates (like pasta, bread, and baked goods) can lead to damage in your skin's collagen, which keeps your skin springy and resists wrinkles, says Andrea Giancoli, MPH, RD.
Salmon is the one protein you should be eating if you have sagging skin. That's because the fish is filled with nutrients beneficial for skin health like omega-3 fatty acids, B-12 vitamins, and selenium.
Consequently, loss of collagen is one of the primary reasons for visible facial aging, such as saggy skin and wrinkles.
Collagen
As you age, the production of collagen — a protein that helps maintain skin structure — slows, leading to accelerated signs of aging like wrinkles. Some research suggests that supplementing with collagen may reduce signs of aging, including wrinkles and dry skin ( 16 ).
Yes! Phew. Increasing your collagen and elastin reserves (and hyaluronic acid too) will help repair loss of skin elasticity. Doing so long term will prevent further loss and encourage good skin elasticity in future.
While there are many causes of crepey skin, including aging, hormonal changes, dehydration, weight loss, using tobacco, and even stress, Dr. McMahan says, “The main reason people develop crepey skin is prolonged or excessive exposure to sunlight.
If you are dealing with loose skin, you need to eat a lot of proteins. Proteins are essential when it comes to keeping your skin moist, free from wrinkles and elastic (9). If you don't eat enough protein, you could increase your chances of having dry, wrinkled and weak skin.
Foods For Skin Elasticity
Eating foods like greens, fatty fish, citrus fruits, broccoli, almonds and walnuts can replenish elastin in your skin. These foods are known to work from within to improve your skin's health.
Can Sagging Skin Be Reversed? Collagen and elastin, the compounds that give skin its youthful shape and appearance, reduce production as you age, leading to saggy, loose skin. While the aging process can't be reversed, you can dramatically reduce jowls with the following procedures: Facelift (surgical)
Aloe Vera
The gel found in an aloe vera leaf tightens the skin by improving its elasticity. It also stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid production, thus preventing wrinkles.
Vitamin E – This vitamin has antioxidants which have amazing effects on both skin and hair. Vitamin E oil and capsules are hugely popular all over the world to tighten up skin. Vitamin E protect the skin from anti-ageing effects caused by sun by absorbing harmful UV light from the sun when applied topically.
Does Collagen Tighten Saggy Skin? Studies have indicated that supplemental collagen is beneficial for skin health, including tightening sagging skin (known as elasticity), boosting hydration, and lessening the appearance of wrinkles.
Your body needs protein to help build and repair muscle, skin, and other body tissues. Protein also helps fight infection, balance body fluids, and carry oxygen through your body. When you have a wound that's healing, think of food as medicine. Eat a balanced diet with enough calories and plenty of protein.
As you age, your body produces less collagen. Collagen is the building block of skin that helps prevent wrinkles, sagging, and moisture loss. Your genetics may contribute to how much collagen you lose as you age. As the dermis produces less collagen, your skin is less able to repair itself, resulting in thin skin.
If the outermost layer of the epidermis doesn't contain enough water, skin will lose elasticity and feel rough. Despite this connection, however, there's a lack of research showing that drinking extra water has any impact on skin hydration or appearance.
Add antioxidants to your diet
A diet high in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and lycopene may help maintain skin's elasticity and overall health.
While collagen gives structure to the skin, elastin allows it to stretch. Skin that is stretched beyond the normal level is known as hyperelastic skin. This occurs when there is a rapid increase in collagen or the production of elastin becomes low, hence causing the skin to lose its capacity for elasticity.