The elastic network of the dermis is primarily made up of what substance?

The elastic network of the dermis is primarily made up of elastin, which is a protein that allows tissues in the body to resume their shape after stretching or contracting. Elastin's key role is to provide elasticity and resilience to the skin, enabling it to stretch and return to its original form, which is vital for maintaining skin's structural integrity and overall youthful appearance.

Collagen, while also a critical component of the dermal structure, primarily provides tensile strength rather than elasticity. It forms a scaffold that supports the skin's structure but does not contribute significantly to elasticity. Keratin is a fibrous protein found in hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin, but it does not play a role in the elastic properties of the dermis. Adipose tissue is primarily involved in fat storage and insulation, not in providing elasticity to the skin's structure. Thus, elastin is the correct answer as it is specifically responsible for the elastic properties that allow the skin to maintain its shape and flexibility.