What better time than now to talk about glycation! While we are sitting at home in quarantine binge watching episodes after episodes of whatever is on our favorite apps like Netflix, Hulu or Amazon and possibly snacking a little more often than usual. Let's take a look at what may be happening.....
The Process
It is already known that excess sugar can lead to a variety of health concerns but what we tend to forget the most is that too much sugar can also affect the skin. Sugar can be digested in many forms, including the consumption of carbohydrates. If there is too much sugar in the body, protein molecules can cross-link with sugar molecules. Once this cross-linking process has occurred, the new sugar proteins are called advanced glycation end products or "AGEs". The human body does not recognize AGEs as normal, and will produce antibodies that cause inflammation in the skin (NOT GOOD). Once formed the AGEs will gravitate toward dermal collagen and elastin.
As people age, proteins in the body can become damaged through the introduction of AGEs. The more sugar you eat whether processed or natural the more AGEs are produced. When the body is overwhelmed with AGEs, collagen becomes compromised. Remember those most at risk are those who are diabetics
Effects of the glycation process at the cellular level of the skin’s structure may result in wrinkling, loss of elasticity, stiffness, accelerated aging and compromised barrier function. Other conditions that appear when micro-circulation is damaged and cell turnover slows down is a loss of volume in the face due to redistribution of fat.
Anti-Glycation
Glycation is one of the many processes that can affect the appearance of your skin. Unfortunately, past sun damage or exposure to pollutants may have already accelerated this process. But the good news is that by nourishing your skin with the right ingredients, you may be able to see a significant reduction in the common signs of aging. Team an excellent anti-aging skincare routine with healthy lifestyle choices such as avoiding unprotected sun exposure, not smoking and eating a balanced diet to help improve the overall look and feel of your skin for years to come.
Rhonda Allison's holistic blend of antioxidants reduces damage and inflammation caused from free radicals while mimosa bark and plantain stem cells strengthen skin, replacing damaged collagen. Her Ageless serum addresses the negative effects of glycation for a vibrant and luminous look.
There are many cutting-edge ingredients that lend support topically to a skin that is weakened and aging. These same ingredients, by nature, would also protect against glycation, and therefore could theoretically be called “anti-glycation.”
Glycine soya – Antioxidant Complex Serum
Turmeric – eZinc Protetion Cream
L-ascorbic acid – C-Peptide Complex, Derma Peel
Epidermal growth factors (EGF) – Growth Factor Serum Plus, Elite eEGF
Centella asiatica – Rosacea Serum
Omega 6 essential fatty acids (linoleic and oleic acid) – Drops of Essence Hydration Drops, Rosacea Serum
Peptides – Peptide 38, Eye Lift
Reseveratrol – Antioxidant Complex Serum, Amino Peptide Serum, MVC Serum
Others include cinnamon, butcher’s broom, green tea, D-alpha tocopherol, and L-glutathione (tripeptide). Since these support the reduction of free radicals and inflammation, they lend themselves to be an ally against glycation. Keep in mind this is a short list of ingredients and the products that contain them.
The best way to help and slow down the process of glycation is through diet and skin care products!