Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which hormone is known for producing elastin and collagen in the body?

1. Testosterone

2. Insulin

3. Estrogen

4. Progesterone

The correct answer is: Estrogen

Estrogen is a hormone that plays a vital role in the production of elastin and collagen in the body, directly influencing skin health and elasticity. It promotes the synthesis of collagen, which is essential for maintaining skin structure, firmness, and resilience. Estrogen also encourages the activity of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production. As a result, higher levels of estrogen are associated with more resilient and youthful skin. In contrast, while testosterone primarily affects muscle mass, libido, and hair growth, it does not have the same direct impact on collagen and elastin production as estrogen. Insulin primarily regulates glucose levels in the body and has a different set of roles that do not focus on skin elasticity. Progesterone, although important for various reproductive functions, does not significantly influence collagen or elastin production like estrogen does.