Numerous factors pose threats to the well-being of our skin, including the harmful UV rays of the sun, stress, smoking, alcohol and certain dietary choices, leading to damage and premature ageing. 

Have you ever considered that a significant player of your skin problems might reside in your diet? Perhaps something sweet? Yes, you’re right – it’s SUGAR! Consuming too much sugar can initiate a set of reactions that contribute to glycation. Dive into our blog for a comprehensive look at glycation, its impact on skin ageing, and preventive measures.

WHAT IS GLYCATION?

Glycation is a natural chemical process that takes place in our body, driven by an abundance of sugar molecules such as glucose or fructose. The excess sugar molecules in the bloodstream bind to proteins and lipids throughout the body, including the skin, forming advanced glycation end products. When sugar molecules bind to collagen and elastin proteins of the skin, they are unable to properly support the structure of the skin leading to inflammatory reactions, wrinkles and other signs of accelerated ageing.

Glycation Process in skin

WHAT CAUSES GLYCATION?

Glycation can be intensified by various factors, including:

  • High sugar intake 
  • Exposure to UV rays, pollution
  • External influences like alcohol, smoking, and stress


Research suggests that
the visible effects of glycation tend to emerge for women around age 35. 

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF GLYCATION IN SKIN AGEING?

Girl worries about wrinkles formed in forhead

Skin glycation plays a role in triggering oxidative stress within cells and generating free radicals, which can accelerate the appearance of premature aging signs.


When sugar molecules and sugar by-products bind to the fibres and proteins of the skin, they compromise their resilience, leading to decreased moisture levels, dull complexion, age spots, reduced skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles.

HOW TO PREVENT SKIN GLYCATION?

S.No Factors Prevention
1 Steer clear of refined sugars in your diet Cut out foods with high sugar and carbohydrate content from your diet, like sweets, processed foods, fruit juices, and white bread. Choose a diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins
2 Incorporate antioxidant rich foods Prevent your skin from oxidative stress induced by glycation with the aid of antioxidants. Green tea, carrots, leafy greens, cinnamon, and berries are excellent sources of these protective compounds, mitigating the impact of glycation on both your skin and overall health. Raw fruits and vegetables, rich in antioxidants and enzymes, additionally contribute to repairing damage caused by glycation.
3 Stay well-hydrated Hydrate your skin by drinking ample water, which prevents skin elasticity and reduces the visibility of wrinkles.
4 Physical activity Regular physical activity enhances circulation, promoting stable blood sugar levels and preventing the excessive accumulation of sugar in the bloodstream. Maintaining a consistent exercise routine contributes to overall well-being and reduces the risk of glycation-related issues.
5 Protect your skin from sun damage Use sun protectants such as sunscreen to avoid UV radiation that may affect your skin and amplify glycation-related damage.
6 Use skin care products which help in collagen boosting Use skincare products enriched with antioxidants. These components rich in vitamins and minerals can enhance collagen production and safeguard your skin from potential glycation damage.

WHAT IS ADVANCED GLYCATION END PRODUCTS?

The reaction between excess sugar molecules with proteins and lipids leads to the production of Advanced Glycation End Products. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) significantly contribute to the aging process, affecting both internal and external aspects. 

When AGEs get accumulated in the skin, they cause the deterioration of collagen and elastin, the pivotal proteins essential for youthful look. When the elasticity of collagen and elastin fibres of our skin diminishes, it leads to decreased skin resilience, resulting in the development of deeper and more prominent wrinkles.

HOW TO AVOID ADVANCED GLYCATION END PRODUCTS?

  • Reducing sugar intake. Most important! 
  • Engaging in regular physical exercises. 
  • Applying sun protectants to prevent UV rays 
  • Staying adequately hydrated 
  • Incorporating diet with antioxidant rich foods 
  • Using skin care products that boost collagen and enriched with antioxidants

CONCLUSION

While a certain level of glycation is inevitable in the body, excessive levels of AGEs resulting from heightened glycation can cause significant harm to both the body and skin. Being mindful of sugar intake, incorporating AGE-inhibiting foods into the diet and considering anti-glycation skin products topically could potentially slow down the premature ageing process. Here’s to making thoughtful decisions for a healthier and more youthful journey ahead.

FAQ

1. CAN CUTTING OUT SUGAR INTAKE REVERSE SKIN AGEING?

Cutting back on added sugar in diet could potentially decelerate skin ageing by reducing the impact of AGEs, potentially slowing down the overall aging process of the skin.

2. WHICH FOODS CAUSE GLYCATION?

Foods with elevated sugar content, heavily processed or fried, such as deep-fried snacks or canned foods, could contribute to glycation. 

3. WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS OF EXCESSIVE GLYCATION?

Excessive glycation results in the buildup of AGEs in the skin which, with time, may appear as wrinkles, reduced elasticity, dullness, compromised barrier function such as dryness and irritation, and inflammatory reactions like acne.

4. DOES SLEEP IMPACT GLYCATION?

Yes, insufficient sleep can accelerate the ageing of the skin and contribute to the formation of AGEs. To maintain healthy skin, aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night!