As a society, we are becoming increasingly aware of the negative impact unhealthy lifestyle choices have on our bodies. Most people are aware that sugar, in its varied forms, contributes to obesity and many other modern diseases. However, not many people know how it impacts the skin, our largest organ. Eating a diet high in sugar can have a detrimental effect on our skin through a process called glycation, which is linked to visible and accelerated skin ageing.
What is glycation (and why does it affect skin ageing)?
Glycation occurs when excess sugar molecules bind to proteins such as collagen and elastin within the skin, forming Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs). These end products (AGEs) can weaken the skin’s structure by damaging the proteins collagen and elastin, which give the skin structure and elasticity. Because AGEs can promote inflammation, they may also contribute to other skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.
The visible signs of glycation in the skin are loss of firmness, rigidity (stiffness), lines and wrinkles. An impaired skin barrier function often accompanies these, and they combine to form signs of accelerated ageing.
Our skin is not the only organ to be affected by glycation. It impacts many other organs and body tissues and is studied across many areas of health.
Can we repair the damage once it is done?
The good news is that whilst it isn’t fully reversible, there are many things we can do to improve the health and appearance of skin damaged by glycation.
The first step is to minimise sugar and refined carbohydrates from the diet as much as possible. If you have always had a diet high in these, please consider enlisting the help of a qualified practitioner to assist with lifestyle changes. Many people find sugar hard to cut back on, but you may be surprised by how much improvement you see in both your skin and overall health and wellbeing, simply by reducing your sugar and refined carbohydrate intake.
Your Skin Therapist is also your ally and can recommend the best treatment options and prescribe a bespoke home care program for you. No two skins are the same and may require slightly different approaches to achieve the desired outcome.
General guidelines to support glycation-stressed skin
- Use TGA-listed broad-spectrum sunscreen to reduce excessive UV exposure and protect against UVA and UVB. This includes sunscreen, clothing, hats and shade. UV exposure accelerates the formation of AGEs, just as high sugar intake does.
- Support hydration and barrier function. AGEs can contribute to dehydration and an impaired skin barrier. The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, which acts as a protective shield. Its main functions are to keep moisture in and harmful substances, such as bacteria, pollutants, and allergens, out.
- Be mindful of processed foods and cooking methods. AGEs increase when we eat processed foods and use certain cooking methods such as grilling, roasting, frying, broiling, searing and toasting. Gentler methods include boiling, steaming or using a slow cooker. Don’t forget to plan and prepare some healthy options to last through the week.
- Be consistent with your skincare routine every day. A facial once every few months doesn’t substitute for a good daily routine. Just as visiting the dentist every 6 months doesn’t mean you don’t need to clean your teeth at least twice per day, our skin is the same. What you do every day makes the biggest difference, and skin treatments help boost results, especially if you have a skin condition
Why Certified Organic skincare matters for glycation and ageing skin)
When skin is affected by glycation, it can start to look and feel less resilient. You may notice reduced firmness, increased dullness, and skin that dehydrates more easily or becomes reactive. That’s why what you put on your skin every day matters. A well-chosen routine can help support the skin barrier, comfort and hydration, while also delivering antioxidant support to help protect against the daily stressors that contribute to visible skin ageing.
This is where Certified Organic skincare stands apart, and why it can be a better choice. Unlike vague “natural” claims, Certified Organic standards set clearer guidelines around how ingredients are grown, sourced and processed, giving you greater confidence in the quality and integrity of what you’re applying to glycation-stressed skin.
For skin that feels dry, reactive, or simply less resilient than it used to be, a Certified Organic approach can be a smart foundation. The goal isn’t to overwhelm the skin; it’s to support it consistently, day after day, with high-integrity ingredients chosen for performance and skin comfort
What type of skincare products should you use?
We recommend looking for these key ingredients: Vitamins A, C, and E; Hyaluronic Acid; and natural lipids (oils). OrganicSpa serums and complexes contain one or more of the above ingredient types (antioxidants, humectants, or natural lipids).
Here are our top picks to include in your daily skincare rituals.
Organicsceuticals Antioxidant Face Oil
Organicsceuticals Vita-A+CE Complex
Organicsceuticals Biohydra+ Serum
Organicsceuticals Active Brightening Serum
Organicsceuticals Reviva-A Complex
Organicsceuticals Pro AHA Treatment
For best results, we recommend having a skin consultation and regular treatments with an OrganicSpa Skin Therapist in conjunction with your home care routine. You can find a skin expert here.
In summary
- Choose foods carefully
- Cook with mindfulness
- Apply sun protection and antioxidant-rich skincare products daily
