Skin Aging and it’s relationship to skin glycation: Maintaining youthful, radiant skin is a goal for many of us, and understanding the underlying processes that contribute to skin aging is critical. One such process is skin glycation, which has gained significant attention in recent years. We want to explain what skin glycation is, as always dive into the research behind it, discuss prevention and Correction, and highlight some products that can be helpful.

What is Skin Glycation and how does it contribute to skin aging?

Skin glycation is a natural biochemical process that occurs when excess sugar molecules, specifically glucose, bind to collagen and elastin proteins within the skin. This binding process leads to the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which impair the normal functioning and structure of these essential proteins. As a result, the skin loses elasticity, becomes more susceptible to wrinkles, and appears dull and aged.

What the research tells us:

Research has shown that skin glycation is accelerated by several factors, including a diet high in refined carbohydrates, excessive sugar consumption, smoking, and UV radiation. Moreover, aging itself contributes to the accumulation of AGEs in the skin. Studies have linked skin glycation to the development of various skin concerns, including wrinkles, sagging skin, uneven skin tone, and reduced skin barrier function.

Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) Accumulation. The accumulated AGEs cause significant damage to collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. This leads to a loss of elasticity, increased wrinkles, sagging skin, and an overall aged appearance. The formation of AGEs also contributes to the impairment of the skin’s natural barrier function and can result in uneven skin tone and texture. It is important to address skin glycation at this stage to minimize its effects and promote healthier, youthful-looking skin. This article by the NIH discusses how physical activity and certain herbal supplements impact reducing the rate of skin glycation. 

Prevention and Correction:

While it is challenging to completely halt the glycation process, adopting certain preventive measures can help minimize its impact on the skin. Here are some strategies to implement:

1. Balanced Diet: Limiting the intake of sugary foods and beverages, processed carbohydrates, and foods with a high glycemic index can help reduce the formation of AGEs. Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet.
2. Antioxidant-rich Skincare: Using skincare products infused with antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, can help neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals generated by glycation. Antioxidants also aid in collagen production and protect the skin from oxidative stress.
3. Sun Protection: Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF daily helps shield the skin from harmful UV rays, which can accelerate the glycation process.
4. Topical Retinoids: Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, have been shown to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by glycation. Incorporating retinoid-based products into your skincare routine can provide anti-aging benefits.

 Products to Check out that Target Skin Glycation:

1. “The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%“: This serum contains niacinamide, a potent antioxidant that helps prevent collagen damage caused by glycation while regulating sebum production and improving overall skin health. To learn more about the benefits of Niacinamide check out my previous article here.
2. “Paula’s Choice RESIST Anti-Aging Omega+ Complex Serum”: Formulated with omega fatty acids and a blend of antioxidants, this serum nourishes the skin, restores its natural moisture barrier, and fights glycation-induced aging signs.
3. “InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid and Ferulic Acid”: This serum combines the power of vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and ferulic acid to brighten the skin, promote collagen synthesis, and protect against glycation-related damage.

More information we uncovered while researching Skin Glycation:

Stages of Skin Glycation: 

1. Early Glycation: In this initial stage, glucose molecules react with proteins, forming unstable intermediates that lead to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS damage surrounding proteins, lipids, and DNA, accelerating the aging process.
2. Intermediate Glycation: During this stage, stable AGEs are formed, causing the collagen and elastin fibers to become rigid and less
3. The third stage of skin glycation is known as Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) Accumulation. In this stage, the accumulated AGEs cause significant damage to collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. This leads to a loss of elasticity, increased wrinkles, sagging skin, and an overall aged appearance. The formation of AGEs also contributes to the impairment of the skin’s natural barrier function and can result in uneven skin tone and texture. It is important to address skin glycation at this stage to minimize its effects and promote healthier, youthful-looking skin.

1. Kohen R, Gati I. Skin low molecular weight antioxidants and their role in aging and in oxidative stress. Toxicology. 2000 May 30;148(2-3):149-57.
2. Raghavan CT, Smuda C, Smith AJ, et al. Advanced glycation end products in human skin: links to aging and inflammation. Compr Physiol. 2019 Mar 14;9(2):829-858.
3. Sell DR, Strauch CM, Shen W, Monnier VM. Aging and glycation promote erythrocyte membrane changes that are prevented by anti-glycation agents. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2012 Nov;67(11):1349-57.

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