Unveiling the Impact of Glycation on Skin: From Home Remedies to Spa Treatments

After the holidays when we have consumed an excess amount of sweets, and we are feeling that urge for a healthy lifestyle and sugar cleanse from our diet, we don't often think about how this can have long term damage on our skin! That's right, a simple breakout from eating sugar may clear up now, but lets tale a deeper dive into glycation! 

Glycation is damage to the skin from the inside due to the consumption of excess sugar. This produces a chemical reaction between our skins collagen and the sugar. A series of complicated glycation products produced at different reaction stages and pathways are usually collectively referred to as advanced glycation end products, or AGEs. These AGEs cause cellular dysfunction Signs that won't show up when you are young and have great elasiticity and collagen, but it will increase the breakdown of collagen and elasticity if not addressed properly. 

Signs of glycation include: visible wrinkles and fine lines, loss of skin elasticity, a dull complexion, uneven skin tone, deep creases around the laugh lines, a hardened and shiny skin surface, and potential yellowing or discoloration, especially noticeable around the jawline and neck area. This may just sound like aging, but the difference is that glycation presents in the skin as cross-hatched lines and wrinkles. If you think of 'normal' wrinkles they are linear and generally parallel to each other in areas of facial movement. Lines created by Glycation cross over each other and are often seen over the cheeks and around the chin.

Key points to look for:

Wrinkles and fine lines: Increased appearance of wrinkles, particularly find cross hatching around the eyes, cheeks, and mouth, due to damaged collagen and elastin fibers.

Loss of elasticity: Skin feels less firm and bouncy, with noticeable sagging, especially around the jawline.

Dull complexion: Skin appears lackluster and less radiant

Uneven skin tone: Discoloration or hyperpigmentation patches may appear

Deep creases: Pronounced lines around the mouth and other facial areas

Hardened skin texture: Skin may feel rough and less supple

Facials: Facials are a fantastic way to care for your skin, whether at home or in a spa setting. By understanding the process of glycation in the skin, you can tailor your facial routine to target this specific issue. Look for products with ingredients like antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to combat glycation and keep your skin looking youthful. 

We recommend a facial like our Goodbye Glycation Vitamin C Facial  that targets skin concerns including aged, damaged, Heavily keratinized, and Glycated. The unique ingredients in this facial are going to break down the glucose molecule, and leave the skin looking smoother to allow homecare products to work at the highest potential with a better absorption rate. The Exfoliation step will help remove the surface proteins and keratin buildup. The finishing mask is going to tighten the skin and act as a powerful antioxidant leaving behind anti-glycation properties. The finishing products will prevent against glycation forming and prevent against DNA damage.

Home Care Products: At Zodiac Spa we carry Circadia skincare products including those that specifically target glycation and AGEs such as; 

• Counter AGE: a serum is specifically formulated to counteract the damaging results of unchecked glycation in the skin. Hyaluronic acid recruits moisture to the skin, while phytochemicals provide superior antioxidant and detoxification properties. 
• Cyto-Comm: A serum that incorporates amino acids that provide the building blocks for collagen production and aid in cell communication, and other ingredients intended to enhance the skin’s natural communication pathways, aiding in repair and restructure. 
• Glyco-Guard that helps protect your skin against environmental assault that can lead to skin-ravishing glycation. This innovative cream contains an extract of Sweet Osmanthus (Fragrant Olive) which has a very strong antioxidant potency. It detoxifies skin from dangerous oxidants and glycating agents, yielding a variety of skin protecting and anti-aging benefits.

Our Team: Our team of skincare experts is here to help you navigate the world of glycation and skin care. With their knowledge and expertise, they can recommend the best treatments and products to address glycation-related concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out and seek their guidance for a personalized skincare regimen. 

Zodiac Spa Beauty: At Zodiac Spa Beauty, we understand the importance of addressing glycation in the skin. Our spa offers specialized treatments that target glycation, leaving your skin rejuvenated and glowing. From facials to serums, we have everything you need to combat glycation and maintain healthy, radiant skin.