How is skin elasticity measured?

How is skin elasticity measured?

Skin elasticity is measured by applying a controlled mechanical deformation to the skin surface and recording the resulting displacement or recovery over time. The most widely used instrument is the cutometer, which applies suction to the skin through a small aperture and measures the vertical deformation of the skin using an optical system. Other devices use torsion, indentation, or wave propagation to derive parameters such as immediate distension, delayed distension, and elastic recovery. In clinical studies, elasticity is often reported alongside other skin parameters including hydration, wrinkle topography, and dermal thickness.

The pathway or receptor family most directly implicated in the maintenance of skin elasticity is the extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling system, in which elastin synthesis, elastase activity, and scaffold protein expression determine the mechanical properties of elastic fibers. Elastic fibers are key components of the skin ECM and are essential for maintaining skin integrity and elasticity [2].

Research Studies

Ergothioneine and skin elasticity in healthy adults aged 40 to 65

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial is evaluating the effects of NVTIA® Ergothioneine, a branded ergothioneine ingredient, on healthy aging biomarkers and skin health in healthy adults aged 40 to 65 years. Participants receive either NVTIA® Ergothioneine or a matching placebo once daily for 12 weeks. The primary objective is to evaluate effects on biomarkers associated with oxidative stress and healthy aging. Secondary objectives include assessment of skin elasticity, skin hydration, inflammatory biomarkers, and overall safety [1].

Copper tripeptide and multi-target restoration of dermal elastic fibers

In a study investigating a multi-target approach to restoring the elastic fiber network, researchers modulated elastin production, elastase activity, and scaffold protein expression. The study found that Copper Tripeptide [2]. During skin aging, particularly photoaging, elastic fiber integrity is progressively compromised by increased elastase activity and the downregulation of elastin and scaffold-related gene expression. The authors concluded that effective strategies to preserve elastic fiber function should address not only elastin synthesis but also enzymatic degradation and scaffold integrity [2].

Cellbooster Shape and objective skin measurements in healthy subjects

A post-market clinical investigation is evaluating the efficacy and safety of Cellbooster® Shape (CBS), a CE-marked (2021) hyaluronic acid-based superficial epidermis/dermis injection filler and skinbooster product. CBS consists of non-crosslinked HA with L-carnitine and vitamin C and is designed for reducing local puffiness by improving microcirculation and hydration. Healthy subjects with signs of skin aging in the face receive a 3-session treatment and are followed up over 70 days after the initial injection session. Several objective measurements of skin are performed [3].

NPQ Plus and skin health in adults with skin concerns

A single-arm, open-label, prospective interventional study evaluated the effects of NPQ Plus supplementation on skin health, antioxidant status, fatigue, and self-perceived well-being in healthy adults with skin concerns. NPQ Plus is a multi-component nutraceutical formulation containing polyphenols (Oligonol®), nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN; RevAge®), pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ; PureQQ®), coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and a trace mineral complex (Ioniplex). Fifty-five participants consumed one sachet daily for 12 weeks, with assessments at baseline and at Weeks 4, [4].

Dietary supplement and collagen production in skin ageing

A study evaluated the effects of a dietary supplement containing natural bioactive compounds on biological processes associated with skin ageing and extracellular matrix integrity. Ageing is characterized by a progressive decline in the function of dermal fibroblasts, the primary cells responsible for collagen production and maintenance of skin structure. Over time, these cells exhibit reduced proliferative capacity, decreased collagen synthesis, and increased accumulation of oxidative and glycative damage, leading to deterioration of skin elasticity and overall tissue homeostasis. The study integrates in vitro and clinical approaches [5].

Acetyl hexapeptide-8 and skin permeability in cosmeceuticals

A review provides a comprehensive overview of the structure and proposed mechanisms of action of acetyl hexapeptide-8 (AH-8), often referred to as a "botox-like" peptide, with particular focus on its efficacy and skin permeability. AH-8 is widely used in topical formulations intended for anti-aging effects, scar treatment, and skin rejuvenation. Biomimetic peptides represent a growing class of active ingredients in modern cosmeceuticals, designed to mimic the function of naturally occurring peptides involved in skin homeostasis, repair, and regeneration [6].

Oral bioactive collagen peptides and skin properties in women with facial wrinkles

A randomized, controlled clinical trial evaluated whether daily oral intake of a collagen peptides supplement improved age-associated skin beauty parameters in healthy women with visible facial wrinkles. A total of 68 healthy female volunteers between 35 and 65 years of age were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical study. Participants were allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive either the active control (n = 34) or avvera™ (n = 34). One participant in the active control group withdrew, and 67 participants completed the study [7].

NatureU® Mind Care BeautyU Caps and skin-aging parameters over 56 days

A 56-day, single-center, open-label, single-arm exploratory study evaluated within-participant changes in skin-aging parameters after daily oral intake of NatureU® Mind Care BeautyU Caps in adult women. Participants took one capsule daily for 56 days. The primary outcome was change from baseline in crow's-feet wrinkle count at Day 56 assessed by PRIMOS CR imaging. The secondary outcome was change from baseline in stratum corneum hydration at Day 56 assessed by Corneometer CM 825. Additional exploratory outcomes included other wrinkle topography parameters, skin elasticity, radiance, pigmentation, pore-related parameters, dermal thickness and density, and participant-reported skin assessments [8].

Comparison of measurement approaches

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Sources

• [1] NVTIA® Ergothioneine for Healthy Aging and Skin Health
• [2] Multi-Target Restoration of Dermal Elastic Fibers Through Elastin Upregulation, Elastase Suppression, and Scaffold Reinforcement
• [3] Effectiveness and Safety of Cellbooster Shape in Healthy Subjects
• [4] NPQ Plus Supplementation for Skin Health and Antioxidant Status
• [5] Effects of a Dietary Supplement on Collagen Production and Evaluation of Its Regenerative and Anti-Ageing Properties
• [6] Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 in Cosmeceuticals—A Review of Skin Permeability and Efficacy
• [7] Clinical Effects of Two Oral Bioactive Collagen Peptides On Skin Properties and Aging Hallmarks
• [8] A 56-Day Exploratory Study of NatureU® Mind Care BeautyU Caps on Skin Aging Parameters
• [9] Skin barrier repairing and anti-aging effects evaluation of a comprehensive topical regimen incorporating niacinamide, Pro-Xylane, and panthenol after PicoWay laser: a randomized controlled study
• [10] Mechanistic understanding and peptide ingredient screening for type III collagen via biological knowledge graph and molecular docking
• [11] Interface-engineered supramolecular collagen peptide nanocapsules for barrier repair and matrix remodeling: From molecular assembly to clinical translation
• [12] Integrative In Silico and In Vitro Evaluation of Vialox and Leuphasyl Pentapeptides for Antiaging Applications