Close up of a cell (Connective Tissues and Insights Into Skin Care of the Future)
Connective Tissues: The Framework of Life
Connective tissue, as the name suggests, connects, and holds our bodies together. It provides support and structure to the body’s organs and other tissues. This article will explore certain details about collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and fibrinogen, which are the primary components of connective tissue, and discuss how aging can affect these structures.
Connective Tissues Component #1 : Collagen: The Body’s Building Blocks
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, making up about 30% of the total protein content. It provides structure and strength to our tissues. Collagen fibers are tough and resistant to stretching, and they form a flexible framework for the attachment of other molecules. You can think of this as the scaffolding for which other connective tissue can exist and work. Collagen functions as the foundation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) which is the combination of the variety of connective tissues.
Connective Tissues Component #2: Elastin: The Spring of Life
Elastin, as its name implies, gives our tissues elasticity. It allows our tissues to return to their original shape after stretching or contracting, not unlike a spring. Elastin is crucial in parts of the body that require flexibility, such as the lungs, arteries, and skin.
Connective Tissues Component #3: Hyaluronic Acid: The Lubricant
Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan (you don’t have to remember this). It basically means that it is a type of molecule made up of long chains of sugar and proteins. These chains can retain a large amount of water, making hyaluronic acid an excellent natural moisturizer and lubricant. It’s found in many tissues of the body, including the skin, connective tissues, and eyes.
Connective Tissues Component #4: Fibrinogen: The Clotting Agent
Fibrinogen is a soluble protein present in blood plasma, from which fibrin, a key component of blood clots, is derived. When an injury occurs, fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, which forms a mesh-like structure that traps blood cells and platelets, forming a clot to stop bleeding and begin the healing processes of the skin at the site of injury.
Aging and Connective Tissues
As we age, changes occur in our connective tissues. Collagen and elastin production decrease, leading to wrinkles and less flexible tissues. Hyaluronic acid levels also decrease, resulting in drier skin and less lubrication in our joints. Fibrinogen levels can increase with age, leading to a higher risk of clot formation and cardiovascular diseases.
As you can see, connective tissues play a vital role in our bodies. Not only for aesthetic reasons but also critical for daily functions. You can just put a band-aid over small cuts thanks to your connective tissues, working hard to make sure you’re in one piece! Understanding the components of connective tissue and how they change with age can help us maintain our health and well-being as we grow older.
EXION
Although taking supplements will help maintain young and healthy skin, aging is not on our side, and you may need extra help. That is where the new technology of EXION comes in. One of the key features of EXION is its ability to naturally induce the production of hyaluronic acid (HA).
It does this by applying mechanical and thermal stress to the tissue, which boosts the body’s ability to produce its own HA. This patented technology treats the entire dermis, providing both thermal and mechanical stress. The synergy between targeted ultrasound and monopolar RF plays a vital role in initiating the body’s natural synthesis of hyaluronic acid.
In addition to HA production, EXION also addresses the production of collagen and elastin to treat skin laxity on the body. It also offers localized fat reduction by directing heat to fat tissue in hard-to-reach areas via integrated active cooling.
Overall, EXION is a versatile solution for skin and deep tissue treatments, offering a range of procedures from breakthrough microneedling RF and hyaluronic acid production to the shortest intimate health treatment.
EMFACE
EMFACE is another innovative product from BTL Aesthetics designed for non-invasive facial treatments. It is the first procedure to apply a patented combination of Synchronized Radiofrequency and the HIFESTM facial muscle stimulation.
Synchronized Radiofrequency heats the dermis to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. On the other hand, the HIFES technology selectively contracts facial muscles, contributing to better facial contouring and a defined jawline.
EMFACE is designed with patient comfort in mind and is a needle-free procedure. It simultaneously treats facial skin and muscles in a 20-minute session. This makes EMFACE a revolution in facial treatments, offering a comprehensive solution for those seeking to address signs of aging and enhance their facial aesthetics.
Given all this information, you are now well equipped to take your skin care into your own hands. As you learn more about what works for your skin and try different things, we hope you consider EXION and EMFACE as possible treatment options. Please discuss this with your doctor to see if these procedures are right for you. To inquire with our office, where they are available, contact us at (847) 686-4444.
