What is skin turgor and how to increase it to prolong youthfulness? Answered by a dermatologist

Dermatologist-cosmetologist, doctor of the first category of the Semeynaya clinic chain

“Skin turgor is its ability to resist deformation, i.e. to smooth itself after pressure or stretching. The term “turgor” is used by dermatologists and cosmetologists when assessing the general condition of the skin, its density, elasticity, the likelihood of formation of creases.”

Factors affecting skin turgor

Turgor is affected by factors such as the skin’s level of hydration and the quality and quantity of collagen and elastin in the skin. Moisturization (or hydration) occurs through the work of lipids and sebaceous glands. The upper layer of skin, i.e. the epidermis, contains substances that store sufficient water, and lipids prevent the loss of this water.

Collagen and elastin are proteins that are extremely important for healthy skin. The substances of the former are particularly strong and highly resistant to stretching: one fiber with a diameter of 1 mm can resist a load of up to 20 kg. This is what primarily protects the skin from stretching and protects it from injury. Elastin is also responsible for the elasticity of the skin.

Nature has ensured that the skin is constantly moisturized and produces sufficient collagen and elastin. In youth, the ratio between the synthesis of these substances and their destruction is 1:1. That is, the skin is constantly in balance and the amount of collagen produced is equal to the amount of collagen destroyed.

As we age, natural processes slow down, and the amount of proteins consumed by the skin gradually exceeds the amount of proteins produced. Consequently, skin turgor decreases and the skin becomes wrinkled and flabby.

Signs of changes in skin turgor

Of course, you can be guided by the appearance of the skin and complexion, but for a more accurate result it is better to use the so-called “pinch test”. To do this, you need to take the skin on the cheek with your index finger and thumb into a fold and release it.

• If the skin instantly smooths out as soon as you release the crease – the turgor is satisfactory.
• If the skin has memorized the position of the crease and it takes time for it to smooth out – turgor is low.

In addition to this, there is also laxity and dryness, the skin as if dull and can even visually give the impression of gray and dark, wrinkles, ptosis, bags under the eyes. With the loss of turgor changes and sensations – the skin becomes tight, and attempts to touch the face with hands can cause discomfort.

Ways to maintain and restore skin turgor

To slow down the decline in turgor and to resist the natural age-related processes in the skin, it is necessary to choose the right care products and procedures. It is necessary to focus on the needs of the skin type and its age.

Products to prevent dehydration – with a high content of hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, peptides, glycans, vitamins C, E, resveratrol, selenium – are mandatory. Also, we should not forget about UV protection – they help to preserve natural collagen and slow down photo-aging (the process of skin damage that is associated with exposure to UV rays).

To strengthen the protein framework of the skin and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin will help procedures such as biorevitalization, bioreparation, peels, needle RF-lifting, laser resurfacing CO 2, SMAS-lifting.

When you are selecting skin care products and treatments, it is important to remember regularity. The best result can be achieved if you take care of the skin constantly, including at home. And then the skin will be not only beautiful, but also healthy, it will properly perform all its functions, regardless of age.