The Sweet Culprit: Unravelling the Effects of Glycation on Skin Health

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Introduction

In the pursuit of youthful and radiant skin, people often focus on external factors such as skincare routines, sun protection, and hydration. However, one often overlooked aspect that plays a significant role in skin aging is glycation. This biochemical process, triggered by the excess consumption of sugar, has far-reaching effects on the skin’s structure and appearance. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of glycation and its profound impact on skin health.

Understanding Glycation

Glycation is a natural process that occurs when sugar molecules bind to proteins and lipids without the influence of enzymes. This non-enzymatic reaction results in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The accumulation of AGEs in the skin can lead to various detrimental effects.

Effects of Glycation on Collagen

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the skin, is crucial for maintaining its firmness and elasticity. Glycation disrupts the structure of collagen, making it stiff and inflexible. This compromised collagen fails to provide the necessary support, resulting in sagging and wrinkles. The visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and loss of skin elasticity, can be attributed to the glycation-induced degradation of collagen.

 

Two women with healthy skin shown alongside a list of the negative effects of glycation on skin, including collagen and elastin damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired wound healing.

 

Loss of Elasticity and Firmness

Glycation not only affects collagen but also impacts elastin, another protein responsible for skin elasticity. The cross-linking of elastin fibers caused by glycation reduces their flexibility, leading to a loss of skin elasticity. This process contributes to the formation of sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles, making the skin look aged and tired.

Formation of AGEs and Oxidative Stress

The accumulation of AGEs in the skin triggers oxidative stress, a condition where there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. AGEs generate free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells, including skin cells. Oxidative stress accelerates the aging process, causing inflammation, uneven skin tone, and a dull complexion.

Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone

Glycation can also lead to hyperpigmentation and an uneven skin tone. The interaction between sugar molecules and proteins can stimulate melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin color. As a result, areas of hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots and discoloration, may appear on the skin. This can further contribute to an aged and tired appearance.

Impact of Diet on Glycation

The primary source of glycation is the consumption of high-sugar diets. Processed foods, sugary snacks, and sweetened beverages contribute to elevated blood sugar levels, promoting the glycation process. Individuals with diets rich in refined carbohydrates and sugars may experience accelerated skin aging compared to those who prioritize a balanced and low-glycemic diet.

The CDC advises keeping added sugar intake, indicated on Nutrition Facts labels, to around 12 teaspoons daily—however, the typical adult actually consumes an average of 17 teaspoons per day.

Protecting the Skin from Glycation

While the glycation process is a natural part of aging, there are ways to minimize its impact and maintain healthier, more youthful-looking skin:

  1. Balanced Diet: Adopting a diet low in refined sugars and processed carbohydrates can help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the potential for glycation.
  2. Antioxidant-rich Foods: Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can neutralize free radicals and mitigate the effects of oxidative stress.
  3. Hydration: Proper hydration supports overall skin health and can help flush out toxins, potentially reducing the accumulation of AGEs.
  4. Topical Antioxidants: Incorporating skincare products with antioxidants like vitamins C and E can provide additional protection against oxidative stress.
  5. Sun Protection: UV radiation can exacerbate the effects of glycation. Using sunscreen regularly helps prevent sun damage and supports skin health.
  6. Collagen-Boosting Ingredients: Skincare products containing ingredients like retinoids and peptides can stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity.

Conclusion

In the quest for ageless skin, understanding the impact of glycation is paramount.

A study says Prolonged exposure to sunlight can exacerbate glycation, a process in which sugars attach to proteins in the body. In fact, a study has shown that the damage caused by UV rays can contribute to a heightened accumulation of AGEs (Advanced Glycation End-products). By recognizing the link between sugar consumption and skin aging, individuals can make informed lifestyle choices to minimize the effects of glycation. A holistic approach, combining a balanced diet, proper skincare, and lifestyle modifications, can go a long way in preserving the skin’s youthful appearance and promoting overall skin health. Embracing these practices can empower individuals to age gracefully and maintain skin that radiates health and vitality.

To learn what enzymes are?  How do they help my skin? Click here

 

How To Take Care Of Your Skin Beyond Your Face

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s.Influencers across the globe have convinced you to religiously use Sunscreen, Vitamin serum, retinol, and the A B C’s of AHA’s and BHA’s for your skin. This may sound like a mouthful, but an increasing number of people now research the ingredients in their skincare before trying it out. The fad has now become a norm! Discover essential tips to keep your neck, chest, hands, and body healthy, glowing, and well-nourished. Learn why skincare beyond your face truly matters.

At every juncture of life, our skin continuously changes. It may be apparent for some or minuscule for others, but with age, you will notice a loss in elasticity, lines or wrinkles, discoloration, pigmentation, and a host of changes that may stress us. However, taking care of your skin goes beyond the face. Skincare tips may not be universal due to individual concerns, skin types, and lifestyles, but let’s stick to the basics of skincare beyond your face: 

  • Cleaner, Moisturizer, Sunscreen
  • Hydration
  • Balanced diet
  • Sufficient sleep

Moisturize Thoroughly for Skincare Beyond Your Face

It is crucial to moisturize our body and apply sunscreen even on your neck, arms, and feet. These oft-neglected areas often show the first signs of aging or skin damage. The skin is the first protective barrier and is constantly exposed to pollutants, UV rays, and even exfoliation, and shaving. 

Moisturizing is thus key to minimizing damage. Use a product according to your skin type, but allow it to be absorbed into your pores right after bathing and before dressing up.

Sunscreen Is A Must

Yes, we’re talking about the benefits of SPF again because that’s how important it is. Don’t need to take our word for it, experts, including Harvard Medical School Professor Jennifer Lin affirm the vast number of studies vouching for the effect of sunscreen on common skin cancers and preventing anti-aging skin effects. Remember, though, sunscreen should be ideally reapplied every 2-3 hours as its effect wanes or is sweated off. 

Concerns about Vitamin D deficiency should also be no reason to avoid sunscreen. Consult a medical professional. There are ample other ways to obtain the same through food or supplements. Skincare beyond your face includes protecting the skin everywhere!

Vitamin C And Retinol for Skincare Beyond Your Face

These are now a bedside staple arsenal in our ‘skincare beyond our face’ regimen. An extensive 2017 study from New Zealand affirms that Vitamin C can reduce signs of aging, particularly hyperpigmentation, and protects against UV radiation. In fact, some say it is the only proven antioxidant that stimulates the synthesis of collagen – meaning minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.

A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol is a powerful anti-aging tool. If you’re new to it, start by patch-testing lower concentrations of retinol once or twice a week at night. And then gradually move to build up your skin’s tolerance. The recommended usage is retinol at night and Vitamin C in the morning with sunscreen! These are powerful ingredients, so don’t hesitate and consult an expert, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

Enjoy The Bath Time

While taking a bath, avoid long showers and use warm (not hot) water with mild cleansers/soaps. On the contrary, some experts also say that the skin may retain essential oils and feel firmer by taking cold showers. Once a week make sure to exfoliate your skin. The exfoliating glove may be the latest Instagram advert that we see everywhere, but an occasional massage using a similar scrub will surely remove dead skin cells. 

Ensure that you do not scrub too hard, but gently pay attention to your back, elbows, knees, and feet in particular. If you shave regularly always protect the skin using any lubricant preferably shaving cream. Please throw away your old blades! It is also important to pay attention to any moles or bumps in your body.

Feet Feat 

Just like you take care of your face and body invest in foot care, not for aesthetic purposes but because many infections and skin conditions, may appear on our neglected feet. Damp or sweaty feet tend to breed bacteria and fungus leading to infections or sometimes even viral warts. Follow the exfoliating and moisturizing process for your toes too. 

Our soles also have thicker skin prone to dryness and cracks, hence do not limit foot care to a once-in-a-blue-moon pedicure alone. Pedicure, however, is not just another beauty regimen, it prevents ingrown nails, and accumulation of dead skin and deeply cleanses our feet.

Hand Care 

This has seen an overzealous increase post-COVID-19. Consistently washing and using alcohol-based sanitizers makes your hands dry and damaged. It is thus not extravagant to use a hand cream after washing to quickly give some moisture back. The skin on the back of the hand is one of the thinnest but also one that is most exposed to outside pollutants, chemicals, and UV radiation. 

Apart from moisturizing it goes without saying that it is imperative to apply a good amount of sunscreen on your hands and arms.

Eating And Drinking Basics 

Apart from external tips, making a few changes in your diet may give you dramatic results. Doctors and dermatologists across the world will agree that sufficient intake of water and a balanced and nutritious diet will do wonders for your skin and health. For starters, drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your body (and skin!) hydrated and flush out intoxicants. Eating food rich in fatty acids, such as fish or walnuts, may reduce inflammation. Including nuts and seeds in your diet is a great and easy source of nutrients, including Vitamin E (an antioxidant for the skin). Vitamin sources like oranges, carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes act as a natural sunblock and prevent various sun damage. Vitamin C-rich tomatoes are a major source of carotenoids, which prevent wrinkling! 

And while you do not need more reasons to eat chocolate, dark chocolate is a high source of antioxidants, improving your skin health and texture. 

A healthy inside is going to reflect a healthy outside. Learn more about how your gut can make you more beautiful: How Your Gut Health Can Make Your Skin Beautiful

One of the most uncommon but vital beauty tips is taking care of your mind. A healthy mind is a way towards healthy skin. Manage stress, get enough sleep, and do things you enjoy. It is an added benefit if you look and feel healthy along the way!

Charene Beauty specializes in Facial Treatments that can give you great results. We are experts in facial spa, blackhead extraction, hydrafacial, diamond glow, and more!

Book an appointment by calling: 203 656 4440

Benefits of LED Facial

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The progressive path of science has touched every field: lifestyle, apparel, personal care, or beauty. As a result, today, we have innovative solutions for all our care and maintenance needs. LED light facial treatment is one such solution that can help you get smoother and healthier skin. 

However, so many facial choices in the market can confuse you. Some individuals also ask why they should go for LED facial or which LED light color will suit them. It is understandable for people to ask these questions before finalizing a facial treatment course for themselves. We aim to answer your queries with this blog, which highlights the benefits of LED facial skincare. 

What is the LED Facial Treatment? 

According to Medical News Today, “LED light therapy is a popular non-invasive skin treatment for acne, sun damage, wounds, and other skin problems.” 

Web MD states, “LED light therapy is a skin treatment that does not use ultraviolet light. Instead, it uses skin-safe, low-level light in different wavelengths and colors.” 

The first definition can help you understand the basic meaning of LED light therapy or facial. The second definition brings it a level ahead with terms like skin-safe, low-level light, and wavelengths. 

History

Interestingly, NASA developed this technique originally to conduct plant growth experiments on shuttle missions. However, in its development stage, the scientists found experiments promising for wound treatments. 

For Beauty Solutions

The LED facial treatment uses different wavelengths of light than can cure the skin. Hence, beauty professionals and aestheticians use light therapy to regenerate your skin from aging, reducing acne and skin damage. Here are some key points:

  • Unlike other treatments, light therapy with LEDs does not involve cancerous ultraviolet rays. Therefore, experts consider them safe for regular use. 
  • LED light therapy does not usually cause burns, unlike other anti-aging treatments like dermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser therapy. 
  • The best part – it is a safe beauty treatment method and has shown promising results. The treatment is getting popular with individuals who like to try scientific skincare methods with a brilliant safety profile.  
  • You may see rare or no side effects with LED treatment. The side effects can include mild redness, inflammation, and rashes.

How does each LED light affect your skin?

Various LED colors – red, infrared, green, blue, and yellow – have different skin impacts. It is beneficial to know how each color interacts with the skin and helps to eradicate other problems like acne, aging signs, etc. When you have complete information about LED treatment, you can decide which treatment is ideal for your skin type and specific issues. Let’s explore how each color affects the skin. 

  • Red Color

Red-colored LED light is mainly known for its anti-aging effects. It acts as a healing hero for your skin by increasing collagen and elastin production. The red LED can also be practical to lessen fine lines & wrinkles. In addition, it stimulates circulation that helps the skin to glow. Red LED works on fibroblasts, which are skin cells that play a role in the formation of collagen. Collagen is a protein that forms a substantial percentage of connective tissue in the skin and aids in the recovery of damaged skin.

  • Infrared Light

Infrared light is divided into three categories – near-infrared levels, middle-infrared levels, and far-infrared levels. Near-infrared light is ideal for wound healing and improved immune function. The middle-infrared levels can work best to stimulate & increase circulation and can promote muscle relaxation. Finally, far-infrared levels are used for detoxing.

  • Blue Light

Blue LED light is known for its strong antibacterial properties. It can stand powerful against the harmful bacterias that damage the skin. Blue light can reach and destroy bacteria that settles deep in follicles and pores. It is beneficial for congested skin, prone to breakout. You can notice a visible improvement in your skin after this treatment. 

Treatment-providing professionals commonly use blue LED light to treat acne. The light treats acne by lowering sebaceous gland activity, causing them to produce less oil, which can clog hair follicles and cause acne. Blue light also works effectively against Cutibacterium acnes, an acne-causing microbe.

  • Green LED Light 

The research suggests that green light works to reduce the production of melanin. It also lightens and diminishes existing pigmentation. It is also effective in tackling skin itching, irritation, and redness. 

The relaxing impact of green light is due to its absorption into the skin. Green LED helps lighten the hyperpigmentation patches, resulting in a more radiant complexion. The anti-inflammatory characteristics of the relaxing effect help to soothe the skin’s surface. Green LED therapy can treat Dilated capillaries, sagging skin around the eyes, under-eye circles, hyperpigmentation, and sunspots.

  • Yellow Light

Yellow LED light helps to rejuvenate the skin and works well for various skin problems. The therapy can also fast-track wound healing and improve blood circulation to the skin tissues. It can also visibly reduce the signs of aging, including fine lines or wrinkles. 

Yellow light has the ability to enter deep within the skin. Therefore, it can trigger the lymphatic system, helping remove toxins from the concerned skin area. Moreover, it can be effective for skin hydration. 

How does the procedure work?

You need to know how the LED procedure works so you know what to expect in a light therapy clinic. 

Various wavelengths of light in LED lights – blue, yellow, green, and red – penetrate the skin at varying depths. The reach of every LED light is different, and their penetration may trigger biological processes to rejuvenate and heal the skin. 

The treatment uses these different wavelengths to help you achieve glowing skin and cure conditions like acne. 

If any symptoms like redness, inflammation, or itching occur, your doctor or dermatologist can provide you with immediate solutions. 

How safe is blue light for skin?

Generally, blue light therapy treatment is a fast process. It almost always takes place as an outpatient procedure. The photodynamic therapy on high-risk areas for cancer treatment is excluded from this. 

Every individual loves their skin and wants the treatment to be in the best manner possible. When you visit a trusted clinic for LED skin treatment, the professional takes care of everything. For instance – 

  • They apply the medication topically to the treatment area if they use photosynthesizing drugs.
  • The professional may also advise you to stay out of the sunlight to achieve quicker and better results. Exposure to sunlight after treatment can also lead to side effects for some individuals. 

Please note, photodynamic therapy with Blue LED requires you to wear goggles if near eyes or avoid the eye area. 

Relevant Studies

Based on various scientific research, experts believe that blue LED light can significantly reduce activity in the sebaceous glands, small oil-producing skin glands. 

Blue light can also prevent the bacteria that leads to acne formation by causing inflammation. Animal research also suggests blue light can work towards healing third-degree burns.

Generally, LED light treatment is an effective cosmetic procedure, as per studies. Furthermore, these studies indicate that light therapy can be effective for a broad range of skin conditions, such as psoriasis and mild-to-moderate acne. If you have had any allergies in the past, you can always ask your doctor for advice. 

As the American Academy of Dermatology states, most individuals with acne can notice refinement in their symptoms through LED light therapy. However, it is essential to take multiple treatment sessions before seeing the results. The professional may also recommend some follow-up sessions for maintenance. 

Other Treatment Specifications

The treatment sessions can take from 15 to 90 minutes long. The time depends on the area on which treatment takes place – how large it is and other things. Individuals with depression or depression with a pattern can opt for their own light therapy devices for use at home. 

Personal Vs. professional LED devices 

Both personal and professional LED light therapy devices are reliable to use. However, one must consider their convenience while deciding which option they want to choose. If you are a busy professional, who cannot attend sessions dedicatedly, you can opt for a home-use device. There are trusted personal care brands like Celluma that provide safe, proven, and effective products. Celluma light therapy is FDA approved to treat acne, wrinkles, arthritic pain, and muscle spasm. You can easily use the device at home. 

On the other hand, you cannot deny that a professional’s experience and skills can be highly beneficial for your skin. Clinic sessions can produce faster results. Just ensure that you consult a trustworthy service provider like Charene Beauty Services. 

At Charene’s, you can find various services to choose from. Working with only experienced professionals, Sarah aims to provide superior quality services that are economical. For example, anti-aging, calming LED light therapy treatment starts at just $15. 

So, wait no more, consult your doctor and book an appointment today to get a radiant skin and confident look. 

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Sugar – Why sugar is bad for your skin? – Facial Treatment Tips by Charene Beauty Salon

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Sugar & High Glycemic = Increased Insulin Levels

Increased Insulin Levels = Inflammation

Inflammation of the Skin = Glycation

What is Insulin?

A hormone produced in the pancreas by the islets of Langerhans, which regulates the amount of glucose (type of sugar) in the blood.

What are High Glycemic Foods?

Foods that are assigned a value on The glycemic index according to how fast or slow a food cause blood glucose levels (blood sugar levels) to rise. 

  • High Carbohydrates
  • Dairy Products & alternatives
  • Fruits – such as oranges & pineapple
  • Legumes
  • Sugars – honey, glucose, fructose, sucrose
  • Vegetable – such as potatoes & carrots

For a more in-depth look at High Glycemic foods click here from Harvard Medical School.

Why in this Case is Inflammation bad?

I am going to talk about chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is persistent low-level inflammation that never stops. The body perceives a threat when there isn’t one sending white blood cells to swarm but have nothing to do and nowhere to go, and they may eventually start attacking internal organs or other healthy tissues and cells. It can lead to muscle loss, and certain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. As well as causing glycation of the skin.

What is Glycation? How Does it Affect Skin?

Glycation is when sugar molecules attach to fat and protein (such as collagen)  molecules making those molecules ridge. Causing collagen a protein to become inflexible making elastin in your skin less elastic. Collagen and elastin keep your skin firm and wrinkle-free. The loss of collagen and elastin, which as we age do lose over time but is exacerbated by inflammation causes sagging skin, wrinkles, acne, and Rosacea.  Glycation also causes free radical formation and oxidative stress. Free radicals can damage the skin by trying to grab an extra electron from atoms in the skin. When atoms are taken away from molecules in the skin, it causes damage to our skin’s DNA that increases skins aging. Again causing loss of collagen and elastin as well as causing pigmentation to the skin in spots as well as broken blood vessels. While oxidative stress is when the balance between the production of free radicals and other bodies’ antioxidant defenses is exacerbated.  Oxidative stress causes the skin to lose collagen and elastin as well as causes skin pigmentation.

Following a healthy diet by a dietician or doctor that has less sugar and low glycemic food will help not only your skin but your entire body and your aging process.

 

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