We all know that time and sun exposure are the enemies of smooth, youthful skin, but did you know that your penchant for sweet treats could also speed up your skin’s aging process? Thanks to diabetes research, we now know that excess glucose in the bloodstream can cause a bevy of skin issues, such as wrinkles, brown spots, yellowing skin and sagging, among others. So before you reach for your next decadent treat, read this.
But First, What Is Glycation?
So in a nutshell, sugar causes glycation, and glycation causes skin aging. How? We asked a dermatologist for a simple explanation. “Glycation is when sugar binds to other molecules in your body, such as protein and lipids,” said New York–based dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe. “These sugar by-products do two things. First, they stop your cells from functioning properly, and then they create free radicals, which can further damage your cells. As a result, the molecules in your skin that keep your complexion looking tight and young—namely, collagen and elastin—are no longer able to do their jobs. Furthermore, you become more vulnerable to environmental stressors such as UV light, pollution and cigarette smoke.”
Other Possible Effects of Sugar on Your Skin
But the risk of collagen breakdown isn’t the only cause for concern. According to board-certified dermatologist Cheryl Lee Eberting, the sugar by-products, also known as advanced glycation end products or AGEs, can also cause the conditions below: Read more
