Glycation
WHAT IS GLYCATION?
As sugar molecules enter the body’s system, they migrate and attach to fat and protein cells – a process often referred to as glycation. The proteins in skin cells most susceptible to glycation are the same ones that make a youthful complexion so plump and buoyant — collagen and elastin. But when sugar molecules attach to these fat and protein fibers, they become discolored, weak, stiff and malformed, producing what is known as sugar by-products or advanced glycation end products (a.k.a. AGE’s). This in turn, presents itself in the form of wrinkles, saggy skin, and a loss of radiance.
In addition, AGEs also make the skin more vulnerable to UV light and free radical damage, and this creates abnormal cells. Learning more about glycation for overall health and skin benefits is very important.
We feel it is the missing link for skin over 50 years of age to see continued Pro Youth benefits. Every skin and body has a level of glycation, but because it is a slow process of degradation, many times you don’t see the affects until later years of life. Using ingredients to help reduce the glycation will give you a more vibrant healthy skin.
ANTI-GLYCATION IN SKIN CARE
In the 80’s, a biochemist named Anthony Cerami, PhD, found that aminoguanidine molecules can block glucose-collagen pairs from forming, thus presenting us with the base for all anti-glycation formulations. Aminoguanidine is a nucleophilic hydrazine compound that prevents AGE formation on collagen. For many years, this was a key ingredient in RA Pro Youth -10 formulas.
With the advancement of science, new sources of anti-glycation ingredients have been found:
- Albizia Julibrissin (Mimosa or Asian Silk) Bark Extract – AGE less
- Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract – AGE less
- Pueraria Mirifica Extract – Exotica Rhodiola
- Carnosine – Exotica Rhodiola, Antioxidant Complex Serum, MVC Serum