The Extracellular Matrix (ECM) is like a support system for your skin. It's a network of proteins and other substances that provide structure, strength, and elasticity to your skin. Think of it as the "scaffolding" that holds everything in place and keeps your skin firm and youthful.
Fibroblasts are special cells in your skin that act like builders. Their job is to produce and maintain the components of the ECM- Collagen, Elastin, and Hyaluronic Acid.
Here's a quick breakdown of these key ECM compounds:
1. Collagen: This is the main protein in the ECM. It acts like the strong ropes in a net, giving your skin its strength and structure. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
2. Elastin: Imagine elastin as the rubber bands in your skin. It allows your skin to stretch and snap back into place, providing elasticity. Without enough elastin, skin becomes loose and less resilient.
3. Hyaluronic Acid: This is like a sponge within your skin. It holds onto water, keeping your skin hydrated, plump, and smooth. Hyaluronic acid also creates an environment for collagen and elastin to function properly.
The Extracellular Matrix (ECM) is important because it provides structural support, maintains skin elasticity and firmness, regulates cell growth and differentiation, and facilitates communication between skin cells, ultimately determining the skin's overall health, appearance, and function.
My top tips to harness the power of ECM:
Topically,
Use products containing ECM-boosting ingredients like retinol or natural retinol alternatives, vitamin C, and glycosaminoglycans
Exfoliate once or twice a week to stimulate fibroblast activity.
Stay hydrated to support hyaluronic acid's moisture-retaining abilities
Protect your skin from environmental stressors that damage ECM through our body balms made with berry extracts abundant in antioxidants, vitamins and omega fatty acids.
From a food and nutrition perspective:
Fibroblasts produce and maintain the ECM, ensuring skin cells receive nutrients.
Support fibroblast function with: -
Vitamin C: Boosts collagen and elastin production
Omega-3 fatty acids: Nourishes fibroblasts and supports skin health
Antioxidants: Protects fibroblasts from damage Nourishing the ECM for Glowing Skin
To support skin nutrition and ECM health:
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
Eat a diet abundant in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids
Stay hydrated to support hyaluronic acid's moisture-retaining abilities
Protect skin from environmental stressors that damage ECM through a diet and
References
Frantz C, Stewart KM, Weaver VM. The extracellular matrix at a glance. J Cell Sci. 2010 Dec 15;123(Pt 24):4195-200. doi: 10.1242/jcs.023820. PMID: 21123617; PMCID: PMC2995612.
Yue B. Biology of the extracellular matrix: an overview. J Glaucoma. 2014 Oct-Nov;23(8 Suppl 1):S20-3. doi: 10.1097/IJG.0000000000000108. PMID: 25275899; PMCID: PMC4185430.
Luis Villacorta, Angelo Azzi, Jean-Marc Zingg,
Regulatory role of vitamins E and C on extracellular matrix components of the vascular system, Molecular Aspects of Medicine, Volume 28, Issues 5–6, 2007, Pages 507-537, ISSN 0098-2997, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mam.2007.05.002.
D'Aniello C, Cermola F, Patriarca EJ, Minchiotti G. Vitamin C in Stem Cell Biology: Impact on Extracellular Matrix Homeostasis and Epigenetics. Stem Cells Int. 2017;2017:8936156. doi: 10.1155/2017/8936156. Epub 2017 Apr 20. PMID: 28512473; PMCID: PMC5415867.
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