NIC Esthetician Written ExamScientific ConceptsEasy
A client is concerned about the visible signs of aging, specifically the loss of skin elasticity and firmness. They ask about the specific protein fibers responsible for the skin's ability to stretch and recoil. Which of the following is the correct answer?
- AKeratin
- BReticulin
- CCollagen
- DElastin
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Elastin
Elastin is the protein fiber in the dermis that provides the skin with its elastic properties, allowing it to stretch and return to its original shape.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Keratin is a structural protein found in the epidermis, hair, and nails, providing protection.
- B. Reticulin fibers are thin, branched collagen fibers that form a delicate supporting network.
- C. Collagen provides tensile strength and structure to the skin, not elasticity.
Elastin
A highly elastic protein in connective tissue, particularly in the dermis, that allows many tissues in the body to resume their shape after stretching or contracting.
- Gives skin its flexibility and recoil ability.
- Degrades with age and sun exposure.
- Part of the extracellular matrix.
Memory trick: Collagen is strength, Elastin is stretch.