What's Aging Your Skin? - Fitness Incentive

“The hard truth is that you can apply the most luxurious, expensive serums and creams, but if you’re not addressing internal imbalances, including inflammation in the body, you’re wasting your money.”

Roxanne Valinoti

What’s Aging Your Skin?

Is it Sugar?!

We all know that excess sugar isn’t great for a healthy body—think stubborn belly fat, metabolic syndrome, blood sugar spikes, and worse yet, diabetes and heart disease. But did you know it can also accelerate skin aging and lead to persistent acne, premature wrinkles, sagging, and dull skin? The main culprit? A process called glycation.

What is Glycation?

Glycation is a chemical reaction that occurs when excess sugar in the bloodstream binds to proteins and fats, forming harmful molecules known as Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). These AGEs accumulate in the body over time and play a significant role in skin aging.

How Does Glycation AGE Skin?

Scientists have established that anything that causes a rise in blood sugar results in inflammation on a cellular level, and when blood sugar rises rapidly, the sugar can attach to the collagen & elastin (proteins) in the skin, making it stiff and inflexible, leading to sagging skin. If that’s not bad enough, the AGEs also contribute to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress by triggering the elevation of cortisol (the stress hormone), which also raises blood sugar and insulin levels. It’s a vicious cycle that can lead to a variety of skin issues, such as;

• Impaired Skin Barrier- AGEs interfere with the skin’s natural repair process, making it harder for your complexion to maintain a moisture balance. Instead, the skin may feel dry and appear dull, rough, or uneven.

• Increased Sagging- When collagen becomes rigid due to glycation, it loses its ability to bounce back, contributing to sagging skin, particularly around the jawline and cheeks.

• Exacerbation of Skin Conditions- Since glycation triggers internal inflammation, it can worsen skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and sensitivity.

How Can You Protect Your Skin from Sugar-Induced AGEing?

Reduce Sugar Intake: Sugar is very difficult to avoid these days, especially since it is hidden in almost every processed food, drink, and snack, so it is best to avoid anything processed and stick to whole foods. Avoid processed snacks, sodas, fast foods, and even refined carbs (bagels, bread, cereals, tortillas, etc.), all of which spike blood sugar levels. Opt for whole foods, fiber-rich vegetables, and complex carbohydrates instead.

Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Vitamin C, E, and polyphenols (found in berries, green tea, and dark chocolate) help neutralize AGEs and protect the skin.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports skin hydration and helps flush out toxins, but too much water can flush out vital nutrients and minerals. If you’re constantly going to the bathroom and your urine is clear, you may be overdoing it. Try swapping water for herbal teas, bone broth, or lemon/cucumber water.

Use Quality Skincare: It’s easy to be “influenced” by social media trends on the latest gimmicky products and treatments; however, they may not be right for YOU. Focus on a high-quality, simple skincare routine that includes a good cleanser, hydrating serum, and moisturizer to nourish the skin. Remember, consistency is key.

Protect Your Skin from UV Rays: UV exposure increases the formation of AGEs. Protect your epidermis from UVAs, UVBs, and infrared radiation all year round.

Inside and Out

The hard truth is that you can apply the most luxurious, expensive serums and creams, but if you’re not addressing internal imbalances, including inflammation in the body, you’re wasting your money. Our skin is a major detoxification organ, and what’s happening on the inside is always apparent on the outside. When we support the skin both internally and externally, true transformation occurs!

It’s Within Your Control

Aging is natural, but by cutting down on sugar and adopting healthy skincare habits, you can keep glycation at bay and maintain youthful, glowing skin for years to come.

Want to start your transformation?

Come see us in the Spa for a Free custom assessment of your skin.

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About the Author

Roxanne Valinoti

Roxanne Valinoti is a highly accomplished licensed Nail and Skin Care Professional with over 25 years of experience in the beauty industry. As a Certified Holistic Health Coach, her approach to each service is customized to individual client goals, and believes in partnering with clients for long-term results.