Sugar may not be ruining your skin but it has been said that giving up sugar could make you look younger by ten years.
AGEs
As we age we need to be aware of the effects of sugar on our skin. This also goes for high-glycemic foods (essentially simple carbohydrates) which convert quickly into sugar raising insulin levels.
After the age of 35, the sugars we consume (or that are produced in our body as we eat processed food) can react with proteins and fats in an abnormal way in a process called glycation producing “advanced glycation end products" (AGEs).
Essentially this abnormal reaction involves sugar molecules permanently bonding to proteins, including elastin (this enables your skin to bounce back) and collagen (this gives your skin strength and firmness) making skin less flexible, saggier and more wrinkled.
You can do it
All is not lost however, there are things that can be done, including reducing the amount of sugar and simple carbohydrates consumed, adding weight training to your gym regime (muscles consume glucose), wearing sunscreen (UV light helps in the formation of AGEs) and taking a B1 and B6 supplement (there is a suggestion that B vitamins may prevent the formation of AGEs). Moreover, a good diet high in leafy greens and other antioxidants (a vegan or mainly plant-based diet is particularly useful) will work to counteract the glycation process.
Try Velettà's massage ritual
We also suggest trying our Velettà Uplifting and Enlivening Facial Massage ritual every day when applying Velettà’s Rejuvenating Oil to counteract any “sag” and to help hydrate and nourish your skin. The natural ingredients in Velettà’s New Zealand made skincare are antioxidant-rich and effective at fighting free radicals and therefore skin damage which means less problem skin and more youthful radiance.
So as we see it the key to great, younger looking skin is a fantastic diet (with little sugar) coupled with excellent, natural skincare.
