How Elastic Is Skin?

The degree of elasticity is determined by the amount of collagen and elastin (two naturally occurring proteins) that the skin retains. Skin with high elasticity is plump, firm, and youthful in appearance. As we age our skin produces and retains less elastin and collagen, leading to sagging and wrinkling of the skin.

What is normal skin elasticity?

Reference ranges for normal skin elasticity were 12.1 to 48.4 kPa for the finger, 3.5 to 26.0 kPa for the forearm, 6.6 to 28.9 kPa for the chest wall, and 3.5 to 15.5 kPa for the abdominal wall, averaging 30.3, 14.8, 17.8, and 9.5 kPa for the finger, forearm, chest wall, and abdominal wall, respectively.

Is human skin stretchy?

Healthy and hydrated human skin has the capacity to stretch and then return to normal when released. This process is controlled by two abundant proteins, collagen and elastin, which are found in the muscles, skin, and bones. While collagen gives structure to the skin, elastin allows it to stretch.