You see it a lot in people who work outside and/or like to sunbathe: leathery skin. This is caused by unprotected exposure to ultraviolet rays. But how does this work and what role does collagen play? I just discovered it.
How is this tough leatherette created?
First let’s talk about such leatherette. It will not surprise you that such skin irritation is caused by unprotected exposure to ultraviolet rays. What I didn’t know was exactly how this leather structure is created…in other words: what is the difference between supple, youthful-looking leather and firmer leathery skin. Thanks to new US research, I now know.
Excess of collagen
What does it look like? Collagen is the “culprit”. The researchers first conducted stretch tests using pieces of skin. Half of them had been exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a long time. Healthy skin appears elastic. The UV-irradiated skin was thicker and barely stretchable. Further research showed that this skin contains an excess amount of collagen. Not very strange by the way. Ultraviolet rays destroy skin tissue. Your body’s natural response to skin damage is to strengthen it: this way your skin can continue to protect your body from external influences. What materials are available for reinforcement? Collagen.
Can you get too much of that?
Collagen is a fibrous protein in your body that ensures the strength of your skin, as well as your bones, tendons, ligaments, hair and nails. You may also recognize collagen as an ingredient in skin care formulas or nutritional supplements. When you are young, there is enough collagen in your skin. But as you get older, a deficiency can occur: your skin becomes saggy. Collagen found in cosmetics can solve this problem. In principle, collagen is good for your skin. However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing…
certainly!
As with all materials, more is not necessarily better. Too much is usually harmful. The excess collagen your skin produces from UVA rays may help keep the barrier in place, but it also causes a lack of elasticity and a leathery appearance.
Fortunately, you can prevent all of this relatively easily: just keep using good sunscreen.
Let’s talk LEDs: What does this mask do for your skin?
