What is glycation?

Glycation is a chemical process in which sugars (such as glucose and fructose) non-enzymatically bind to proteins or lipids without the involvement of enzymes. This process forms compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These glycation products can alter the structure and function of proteins in the body, causing damage to cells and tissues, including the skin.

How does glycation occur?

When we consume sugar, part of it enters the bloodstream. In this process, sugars can react with proteins and form unwanted bonds. This process can occur throughout the body, but in the skin, it especially affects proteins like collagen and elastin, which are responsible for the skin’s firmness, elasticity, and youthful appearance.

Glycation occurs when sugars attach to these proteins, forming advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These products alter the properties of the proteins, making them stiffer and less flexible.

How do advanced glycation end products (AGEs) affect the skin?

When collagen and elastin undergo glycation:

• They become stiffer: the collagen fibers become less flexible and elastic, reducing the skin’s ability to “bounce back” when stretched or moved.
• They lose their functionality: damaged collagen and elastin do not work as effectively to keep the skin firm, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and sagging.
• Oxidative damage increases: AGEs can generate free radicals, which in turn cause cellular damage and oxidative stress, accelerating aging and skin damage.

Long-term effects of glycation

Over time, the glycation of skin proteins causes:

• Accelerated skin aging: the skin loses its radiance, elasticity, and firmness. This contributes to the formation of fine lines, deep wrinkles, and sagging.
• Development of skin spots: the damage caused by AGEs can also contribute to the appearance of dark spots or hyperpigmentation due to cellular damage and oxidative stress.
• Reduced healing ability: glycation can also make the skin slower to heal or repair itself, as the skin’s proteins do not function as effectively as they should.

Factors that accelerate glycation:

The process of glycation is accelerated by certain habits and conditions:

• Excess sugar in the diet: eating large amounts of sugar or refined carbohydrates raises blood glucose levels, which increases the likelihood of glycation.
• Aging: as we age, the skin’s ability to repair and regenerate its proteins decreases, making glycation more likely.
• Sun exposure: UV rays can also increase the formation of AGEs in the skin, exacerbating the damage caused by glycation.
• Smoking: tobacco increases the formation of AGEs and contributes to collagen loss and the premature formation of wrinkles.

How to prevent glycation and its effects:

Although glycation cannot be completely avoided (since it is part of the natural aging process), there are ways to reduce its impact and protect the skin:

• Reduce the consumption of refined sugars: limit sugar intake in the diet, especially simple carbohydrates like added sugars in sodas and processed products.
• Consume antioxidant-rich foods: eating foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, can help neutralize the harmful effects of AGEs on the skin.
• Stay well-hydrated: keeping the skin hydrated improves its appearance and resistance to glycation damage.
• Use sunscreen: protecting the skin from the sun prevents further damage and the acceleration of glycation due to UV exposure.
• Topical care with ingredients like niacinamide: Niacinamide (vitamin B3) and retinol are known for improving skin quality, reducing inflammation, and limiting the formation of AGEs.

Aging

Firmness

Sagging