The number of structural proteins within the skins extracellular matrix (ECM) determines the elasticity, hydration capacity, thickness, and ultimately appearance of the skin. One of the major causes of aging is the loss of structural proteins in the skins ECM, mostly due to decreased collagen production and increased degradation of already existing collagen fibres.

Polyphenols such as those from olive leafvii and Zizania latifoliaviii plants reduce the breakdown of structural proteins within the ECM through their antioxidant properties. Retinoidsix, such as retinyl palmitate, and yeast beta-glucansx promote the formation of structural proteins within the ECM, actively increasing the skins thickness and slowing down the aging process.