You’ve already kicked your soda habit (mostly), and you save sweet treats for emergencies – because you know too much sugar is bad for your health. But did you know it’s just as bad for your skin?

After you eat sugar, its molecules bind to fats and proteins through a process called glycation, creating advanced glycation end products, or AGEs. Your body reacts by producing antibodies, which triggers low-grade inflammation and causes protein fibers to become stiff and malformed. Unfortunately, the skin proteins most vulnerable to glycation are collagen and elastin – the lovely building blocks of plump, youthful skin we all want to protect. Once damaged, they appear discolored, weak, and less supple, and the visible result is wrinkles, accelerated aging, and a loss of radiance. Even worse, the presence of AGEs leaves your skin more prone to other aging aggressors, including sun damage and cigarette smoke.

So what can you do about this internal assault?

Your best defense starts in the kitchen. Avoid refined white sugar and high-fructose corn syrup – studies have shown these can increase the rate of glycation by up to ten times – along with refined carbohydrates. Also increase your intake of green tea, which has been shown to significantly interfere with the glycation process while offering a myriad of other health benefits.

Your last line of defense is your skincare routine. Choose a reputable anti-aging cream formulated with AGE fighters, and products that stimulate collagen production can also help.

For healthy skin, regular professional facials and skin assessments are a must. At Privy Skin Care, I offer unparalleled personal service. Call me for a consultation or book your appointment online today!

www.privyskincare.com 702-496-2066