Doctors, dentists, nutritionists — most experts agree that limiting sweets can help you feel healthy and alive overall. But what about sugar and your skin? Can that perfect piece of chocolate cake lead to signs of aging skin?
As it turns out, sugar is a key factor in the skin aging process. And there it is glycosylation With the help of experts, we’re here to explain the definition of glycation and reveal how much (or little) sugar can contribute to skin aging.
Let’s start.
What is glycosylation?
Glycation is a natural process in your body caused by sugars, such as glucose or fructose. When there is too much sugar inside the skin fibers, the sugar molecules attach to the skin’s collagen and elastin proteins. And these hero proteins are responsible for keeping the skin firm and elastic.
What happens next? When these important proteins are weighed down by sugar, your body responds with other processes that can lead to inflammation and signs of skin aging. (1)
How does glycosylation cause skin aging?
The glycosylation process causes something called advanced glycation end products (AGEs) to form on your skin. In turn, these AGEs can play an important role in skin aging. (2) Finished products make collagen stiff over time, meaning it loses its ability to keep skin supple. As a result, you may notice fine lines and wrinkles as the skin loses its natural structural support. (1)
Another effect of glycosylation? Inflammation. As the process continues, AGEs begin to interact with other receptors in your skin. These interactions can cause inflammation, resulting in dryness or discomfort. (1)
When does glycosylation occur and why?
Glycosylation is a natural process. It usually starts around the age of 20 and gradually intensifies. But some factors can speed up glycosylation such as:
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Exposure to UV radiation from the sun
- Smoking, pollution and more external skin stressors
- Diets high sugar content
- Diets rich in fried foods: AGEs can form in foods that have been exposed to high temperatures during baking, frying or toasting.
These factors can cause more AGEs to form in the skin, resulting in loss of firmness and elasticity. (1)
How can you help fight glycosylation?
Here’s the good news. There are steps you can take to help combat glycation and its aging effects on your skin. Let’s dive in.
Use targeted skin care formulas
Be proactive with your daily skincare routine. Choose products including carnosine, a potent antiglycemic agent.
How does carnosine work to fight the formation of AGEs? Through distraction. Glucose molecules stick to carnosine instead of your collagen, slowing down the glycosylation process. Carnosine also acts as an antioxidant, helping to fight the effects of free radicals on your skin and minimizing the visible signs of aging. (1)
Isdinceutics Age Contour was designed as a triple threat: it provides antioxidant support, helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and with carnosine as a key ingredient, it fights the formation of AGEs in the skin. Apply the rich moisturizing formulas both morning and night for visible results.
Improve your diet
Are you getting enough fruits and vegetables? Studies show that glycosylation (and the effects on your skin that come with it) can be reduced by managing blood sugar levels. And the best place to start is with a healthy, balanced diet. (1)
If you’re concerned about how much sugar you’re consuming, it’s always best to consult a professional. They can advise you on dietary changes and suggest ways to reduce your sugar intake if needed.
Apply the right sun protection
Sunspots, wrinkles, sagging skin: many signs of aging can be attributed to sun exposure, AKA photoaging. And glycosylation is no exception. Scientists have found that build up AGEs in sun-exposed skin, contributing to the visible signs of aging.
Our favorite reminder to protect your skin? Remember to wear broad spectrum sunscreen every day. Proper sun protection can help slow the signs of skin aging and, more importantly, help protect against skin cancer.
And above all, love your skin, take care of it and protect it, always.
Sources:
1 Ichihashi, M., Yagi, M., Nomoto, K., & Yonei, Y. (2011). Glycation stress and photoaging in the skin. Antiaging medicine, 8(3), 23–29. https://doi.org/10.3793/jaam.8.23
2 Gkogkolou, P., Böhm, M. Advanced glycation end products: Key players in skin aging? In Dermatoendocrinology (2012); 4(3): 259-270.
3 Ghodsi, R., & Kheirouri, S. (2018). Carnosine and advanced glycation end products: a systematic review. Amino acids, 50(9), 1177–1186.
Editorial team
Our namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that stimulate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. By connecting beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.
