How to reduce wrinkles with the extracellular matrix (ECM)-targeting Skin Serum

Not all ‘anti-aging’ products are made alike. One recent evolutionary step in this skincare category is targeting the extracellular matrix (ECM). This is what Zinzino’s 24-Hour Skin Serum sets out to achieve – to approach aging systematically, using active ingredients that repair and rebuild the matrix.

What is the ECM? It’s the structure that’s responsible for both physical support and the exchange of nutrients, cellular mediators, and growth factors. This means providing the right mix of metabolic and structural support to cells, in the form of hyaluronic acid, amino acids, peptides, and antioxidants. These are all essential components to the integrity of the skin.

There are three major layers of tissue that make up our skin: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The ECM is present in both the first and second layers, to provide strength and elasticity. It’s a fine mesh of microfibers, home to essential compounds that keep the skin youthful (collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid).

Zinzino’s Skin Serum targets the ECM in both layers to restore collagen and elastin in the face.

So, how does the skin age?

The skin deteriorates much like the slow erosion of a coastline. It’s noticed over decades as the skin slowly thins, becomes weaker, and less elastic. Wrinkles form, usually on the areas exposed to sunlight, that’s why a skincare regime is crucial to slow down this process.

Many external factors are what causes wrinkles such as sun exposure and the environmental pollutants that accelerate the production of skin-damaging free radicals. However, that’s just one side of the coin. There are internal triggers, too, which is where using an ECM-targeting skincare comes in.

The science behind Zinzino’s Skin Serum

This serum addresses the internal factors through a three-pronged strategy: Protect, Repair and Rebuild. It’s the only serum on the market that stimulates the build-up of collagen and elastin.  Registered with the The Vegan Society, the Zinzino Skin Serum is recognized for its kind, yet powerful natural ingredients, aimed at restoring the ECM.

First, it’s necessary to reduce matrix breakdown due to sunlight, by sheltering the skin from degradation through four active ingredients: squalene, 1-3, 1-6 beta glucans, tocopherols and tocotrienols, as well as olive polyphenols.

With that daily ‘shade’ against sun damage box ticked, next comes the science of increasing matrix formation. Fibroblasts, which are skin cells, that are used to repair the ECM and rebuild collagen in the face. They also help to build elastin and other microfibers. The two ingredients that activate fibroblasts are copper heptapeptide and 1-3, 1-6 beta glucans.

The powerful antioxidant copper heptapeptide plays an important role for the skin, facilitating various functions such as collagen, elastin and melanin production. 1-3, 1-6 beta glucans are found in the cell walls of various foods and help to protect our skin from oxidative stress (and subsequent damage).

Rebuilding and strengthening the integrity of the ECM is Zinzino Skin Serum’s final job. Cellular regenerationtakes time but there are two fast-acting compounds that hydrate, smooth and increase the skin’s elasticity. They are calendula and the well-known hydrating hyaluronic acid.

The Zinzino Skin Serum also contains beta carotene that gives your complexion a golden ‘just got home from a holiday’ hue. It’s the natural color found in various fruits and vegetables. In time, daily use of the Skin Serum creates a subtle golden glow that exudes an ‘I’m healthy’ look.

It features shea butter and sunflower oil, both for the moisturizing characteristics, the seaweed Chondruswhich is a UV protectant, and the skin-healing mineral clay sepiolite. Oat (Avena sativa) soothes irritated skin, while betaine balances water in the cells.

Like we said, this is a systematic approach to aging.

Get to know what’s in your skincare

It’s essential to educate yourself about the products you put on your body to avoid premature aging. Yes, it could say ‘anti-aging’ but is it tested on animals? Does it contain fragrance or alcohol? It’s not just about what’s promoted on the label. Learn to read the fine print, too. Our products, for example, are natural, vegan-friendly and paraben-free, with no added fragrances. They’re not tested on animals.

When it comes to what you put on your face, don’t take shortcuts. The ECM is delicate and requires a product with no added fragrances, parabens or toxins. It should be PROUD of the ingredients inside as they’re all natural.

Empower your skin with the first ECM-targeting serum that hydrates, improves elasticity, reduces wrinkles, fine lines, and the size of pores. Harness the new science breakthrough of extracellular matrix function to protect, repair and rebuild your skin… and look really good in the process.