Do you have any idea what the 'extracellular matrix' is? You may think that it came out of a science fiction movie, wouldn't you? 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 good idea to know 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 has several 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 keep itself flexible, soft and fresh. Some of these help maintain its durability, and others help it stay moist. One of these substances, and one of the strongest proteins in nature is collagen. Since collagen is so strong, it helps to give structure and strength to our skin. Coincidentally, it is also the most abundant protein in our body. Another very important protein chain is elastin. Elastin is a more elastic-like protein (not as rigid 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 consistency of mucus, and they are important because they hold water in the skin.

As long as all of these components are working they way there were designed to in our skin, our skin will remain youthful-looking and radiant. Remember that all the substances in the extracellular matrix are essential for our skin to keep its structure and stay moisturized. However, the problem starts when, due to too much sun exposure, aging, or contaminants in the environment, the body doesn't make as many of these proteins as quickly anymore, thus deteriorating the extracellular matrix. The development of collagen and elastin and moisture holding molecules is naturally reduced as people age. The cells get old, and since the body isn't fabricating as many fresh ones as it used to, our skin starts to look dry, saggy, and old.

Helping your Skin Help Itself

As I mentioned, one of the biggest causes of this deterioration of the extracellular matrix is environmental contamination and exposure to UV rays so be careful when exposing yourself to the elements. Stop smoking if you haven't already done so, and always wear sun block. And of course, by now you are probably familiar with the incredible new developments by researchers into the incredible properties of biological ingredients found in nature when applied topically to these affected areas. In case you weren't aware, people are looking for these skin care products because their biological ingredients (such as mucous that garden snails secrete) have been found to heighten new production of collagen and elastin in the extracellular matrix. If you haven't tried these natural products yet, make sure you try them also, because applying them, along with protecting yourself when outdoors, will treat deteriorated skin before it's too late!