Elastic skin refers to skin that is able to stretch and return to its original shape. The spelling of this word in IPA phonetic transcription is /iˈlæstɪk skɪn/. The "e" in "elastic" is pronounced as /ɪ/, while the "a" in "skin" is pronounced as /æ/. The stress is on the second syllable of "elastic," which is pronounced as /ˈlæstɪk/. This word is commonly used in beauty and skincare industries to describe the quality of the skin.
Elastic skin refers to the property of skin that allows it to stretch and then return to its original shape and size. It is a term commonly used in the context of describing healthy, youthful skin that remains supple and resilient. A key component of this elasticity is the protein called elastin, which is found in the dermis, the second layer of the skin. Elastin provides elasticity and allows the skin to stretch and recoil.
In elastic skin, the connective tissue fibers within the dermis are organized in a way that enables the skin to stretch and rebound without losing its shape or causing permanent damage. This quality is essential for various functions, such as accommodating body movements and growth, as well as maintaining firmness and smoothness.
However, as a natural part of the aging process, the production of elastin decreases over time, resulting in a gradual loss of skin elasticity. This contributes to the development of wrinkles, sagging, and a generally less supple appearance. Factors like exposure to harmful UV rays, smoking, poor nutrition, and genetic predisposition can further exacerbate the decline in skin elasticity.
To maintain or enhance skin elasticity, various skincare practices and treatments can be employed. This may involve adopting a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, staying hydrated, using skincare products that promote collagen and elastin production, and seeking professional treatments like chemical peels, laser therapies, or dermal fillers.
Cutis elastica.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "elastic skin" is a compound noun composed of the words "elastic" and "skin".
1. Elastic: The word "elastic" is derived from the Latin word "elasticus", which meant "liable to be set in motion" or "elastic". It was first used in English during the mid-17th century to describe the property of a material to resume its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
2. Skin: The term "skin" originated from the Old English word "sceinn", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skinnaz". This term referred to the outer covering of humans, animals, or fruits. Over time, it developed to connote the outermost layer of tissue covering the body.
Combining these two words, "elastic skin" refers to the property of the skin to stretch or contract while maintaining its ability to return to its original shape.