Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

ELASTIN.

Valuable CAS 9007-58-3 / SKIN CONDITIONING, SMOOTHING

Elastin, primarily in its hydrolyzed form, functions as a powerful topical skin conditioner and humectant. It creates a protective film on the skin's surface, significantly boosting moisture retention and enhancing overall suppleness.

Summary

emollient skin conditioning moisturizer/humectant film-former antioxidant wound healing

Science

Mechanism of Action

Topically applied hydrolyzed elastin acts predominantly at the skin's outermost layer. Its rich composition of polar amino acids allows its peptides to bind water effectively, thereby acting as a humectant and film-former. This mechanism leads to improved skin hydration and elasticity, contributing to a visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Elastin may also exhibit antioxidant properties by scavenging reactive oxygen species and has demonstrated potential in supporting wound healing processes.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.01–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 An elastin hydrolysate demonstrated a 25-30% increase in fibroblast proliferation, leading to over 250% increase in elastin fiber production and a 100% increase in collagen production. Topical application, often in combination with collagen, has been shown to improve skin suppleness and reduce wrinkles.
  2. 02 An anti-aging composition containing 0.01-5% elastin, alongside collagen (0.01-5%) and modified disaccharide polysulfates (0.01-0.5%), promoted skin firmness, reduced wrinkles, and supported skin barrier repair.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted

While topical elastin provides verifiable benefits such as enhanced hydration, film-forming, and improved skin suppleness, claims implying it 'stimulates' the skin's natural production of elastin are considered drug claims by the FDA. Such claims suggest an alteration of skin structure or function beyond cosmetic action, and Moumoujus prioritizes scientifically substantiated topical benefits over speculative internal stimulation.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 5.5
0 7 14

Stability

Hydrolyzed elastin powder exhibits high solubility (>80%) across most pH values, with diminished solubility noted at pH 8.2. To maintain product integrity, formulations should minimize exposure to light and air to prevent discoloration, which typically does not impact efficacy. It can increase the stickiness of cosmetic products, potentially affecting spreadability.

Synergies

  • Modified disaccharide polysulfates
  • Collagen
  • Chondroitin sulfate

Conflicts

  • Reduced solubility at pH 8.2

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has concluded that Elastin and Hydrolyzed Elastin are safe for cosmetic use within current industry practices and concentrations. A Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT) conducted at 25% w/v Hydrolyzed Elastin (MW = 3000 Da in corn oil) demonstrated no dermal irritation or sensitization. The FDA classifies hydrolyzed elastin of bovine origin as a highly processed ingredient, asserting no risk of BSE to consumers. However, the FDA considers claims related to 'stimulating elastin' (implying altering skin structure or function) to be drug claims. Individuals with known sensitivities or allergies are advised to perform patch tests.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Elastin is a valuable ingredient for topical application, acting as an effective humectant and skin conditioner to significantly enhance moisture, improve suppleness, and visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines with a low risk of irritation across all skin types.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…