Effects of Sugar on the Skin
October 2017 | Reading time: 3 minutes
We all are well versed with the fact that sugar is harmful to our waistline, but what about skin? Sugar is as harmful to the skin as much as it is to the waistline. Yes, you read that right!
The Basics
With age, the cells in the body renew and regenerate at a slower rate. Sometimes, we ourselves might be responsible for speeding the ageing process by creating non-conducive environment for systematic cell renewal and collagen production. Collagen is the in- charge for making the skin firm. This major structural protein has many types in the body.
As per the researchers, sugar might be, somehow, responsible for degrading the different types of collagen present.
How Sugar Affects The Skin?
Consumption speeds up the natural process of glycation in the body. When we consume sugar, it begins to attach to the structural protein and this result in the formation of new subversive molecules. These molecules are called advanced glycation end- products or AGE. AGE, in turns, starts to deteriorate the structural protein, that is, collagen.
So, this in just one line means that the more sugar we consume, the more AGEs are formed and hence, more protein is damaged.
Once the natural process of glycation is sped up, collagen and elastin are deteriorated at an accelerated pace. These major structural proteins are the guards that look out for a firm and tight skin. Degraded collagen and elastin cause fragmentation of skin and as a result skin starts to sag and fine lines and deep wrinkles begin to appear.
Since collagen becomes glycated by consumption of more sugar, this glycated collagen prohibits the working of natural repair and maintenance mechanisms within the skin. Cross-linking of glycated collagen renders the skin non-resistant against wrinkles.
Remedies for Reversing the Effects of Sugar
It’s never too late to start caring for your skin and reverse the process. Collagen production can be enhanced by using skin care products containing retinoids. A concentrated dose of retinol helps to amplify collagen production from inside to recreate the firm texture of the skin.
Also, AGE formation can be reduced significantly by taking fewer amounts of sugar. Pro-inflammatory, high glycemic, foods rich in high saturated fats and packaged or preserved foods should be totally avoided. This can be kick-started by reducing the intake of sugar during each meal. Switching to a carb diet is another alternative and so is turning to whole wheat eatables. With a reduced rate of glycation, your skin will feel the glam once again.
Related Articles

Discover the Secret to Younger Looking Skin
Younger looking skin secrets revealed! Smooth, perfect, younger looking skin is no longer a privilege of the wealthy. Nowadays, anyone...
What’s the Paleo Diet All About?
The Paleo (or Paleolithic) diet has emerged as one of the most popular weight loss plans available today. From nutritionists...
BMI: Body Mass Index – What is it?
Why BMI is important and how to calculate it. BMI stands for body mass index. It’s a simple system for...
Mastering the Fundamentals: Your Guide to Health Basics
Understanding the Health Basics Understanding the health basics is key to living a vibrant, balanced life. From nutrition to rest,...
Kickstart Your Wellness Journey: The Health Basics You Need to Know
Nutrition: Fuel Your Body RightGood nutrition is the foundation of good health. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits,...
Common Diet Mistakes That Can Make You Fat
Have trouble losing weight? Do you stick to your workouts and eat clean, but your efforts are in vain? If...
10 Interesting Facts About Hair
We look at our hair in the mirror every day - we style it, dye it, and customise it. But...
Designer Vagina Treatment
Information on the non-surgical vagina lift A designer vagina is a name given to a non-surgical vagina tightening treatment. FemiWand...
The Dangers of Fad Diets
Wе'vе аll heard оf fad diets, but what are they? Lеt'ѕ define it this way: a fad diet iѕ оnе that iѕ...
You Should Always Wear Sun Cream
Baz Luhrmann was right; it might be cold outside, but if you're going abroad (or if we get a sunny...
BOTOX® Aftercare
BOTOX® has a very little impact on your activities. Following the injections, we recommend you adhere to a few simple...
Facelift Newcastle
The facelift treatment guide for VIVO Body Studio Newcastle. Choosing a facelift or rejuvenation treatment can be confusing. With so...Happy Customers
1,805 Reviews and CountingMobina carried out this treatment and she is v knowledgable, professional and attentive throughout. I’ve got my next appointment booked & can’t wait to see the results after that session.
I would highly recommend this treatment and Mobina.