This brings us to elasticity of the skin and aging. One of the key changes in our skin that occurs as we age is a loss of elasticity. Our skin becomes loose. This is due to two very important factors, sun exposure and our genetics. Without a doubt sun exposure is the most important preventable factor. If everyone was to use sun screen and avoid long term sun exposure, our skin would maintain its youthfulness much longer, not to mention reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, our genetics also play a role. Some people age more quickly than others.