What if there were a way to not only slow down the aging process of our skin but even partially reverse it? This question has occupied scientists for decades, and although the fountain of youth remains a myth, novel approaches like NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) could bring the promise of more youthful skin within reach. But what is behind this potent molecule, and how exactly can it act as a skin serum against wrinkles and UV damage?
In this article, we provide you with an in-depth look at the science behind skin aging and the methods that exist to stop or possibly reverse it.
Skin Aging: How Does Our Largest Organ Change with Age?
Our skin, the largest organ of the human body, undergoes a continuous aging process that is influenced by both internal (intrinsic) and external (extrinsic) factors.As we age, cell regeneration slows down, the skin loses elasticity, moisture, and density, leading to visible signs such as wrinkles, fine lines, and an uneven skin tone.
A central aspect of skin aging is the decrease in the production of collagen, a structural protein responsible for the strength and elasticity of the skin. Over time, this decline leads to thinner, sagging skin that is no longer able to recover adequately from damage.
Sunlight – a curse or a blessing for the skin?
UV radiation is one of the most significant external factors contributing to skin aging. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays, especially UVB rays, can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to accelerated aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.This process, known as “photoaging”, is characterized by the formation of wrinkles, pigmentation spots, and a rough skin texture.
UV radiation not only causes direct DNA damage but also promotes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress. This oxidative stress damages cell membranes, proteins, and even the mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of our cells, responsible for energy production. As we age, the skin's ability to recover from these damages decreases.
Did you know?
While sunlight causes our skin to age, it is nevertheless necessary for the adequate production of vitamin D. Especially in winter, the production of vitamin D in the body decreases as the UV rays are no longer strong enough.And one more point: Sunlight has been proven to promote a good mood.
Collagen production in old age
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin and, together with elastin and hyaluronic acid, forms the framework that gives the skin its structure and elasticity. Collagen production peaks in the late teenage years and then gradually begins to decline. From the age of 30, the skin loses a little of its ability to produce collagen each year. In this study, scientists examined how the skin of 18-29 year olds differs from that of 80 year olds. The result: the 80 year olds had a reduction of about 75% in collagen production. Additionally, the fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen) were also significantly less present.
With decreasing collagen production, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture and repair damage. This leads to thinning of the dermis (the middle layer of skin), reduced elasticity, and the formation of wrinkles. Supporting collagen production is therefore a key element in strengthening the skin from within. Studies have shown that collagen peptides, which can be easily consumed through food or as collagen powder as a dietary supplement, are effective. You can learn more about this in our article on collagen.
Mitochondria: How the powerhouses of cells change with age
Mitochondria are responsible for energy production in our cells and play a crucial role in cell health and function.As we age, the efficiency of mitochondria decreases, leading to a decline in cellular energy production. This process, known as "Mitochondrial Dysfunction", significantly contributes to skin aging.
The functionality of mitochondria is influenced by a variety of factors, including oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and other environmental factors. Damaged mitochondria can no longer effectively produce energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), leading to an accumulation of cellular damage and accelerating the aging process.
Did you know?
The skin is a dynamic organ that is constantly renewing itself. In the case of humans, this happens approximately every 28 days? However, this process slows down with age.While the skin of a teenager regenerates in less than a month, this process can take twice as long in older adults. This delay leads to an accumulation of damage and visible signs of skin aging.
NAD metabolism as the key to better mitochondria
NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body and plays a central role in energy metabolism and mitochondrial function. It is crucial for the activity of sirtuins, enzymes that regulate the aging process and promote the repair of DNA damage. Dr. David Sinclair is one of the most renowned researchers in this field and has made a significant contribution to the longevity world with his research on sirtuins and resveratrol.
As we age, the NAD levels in the body decrease, leading to a reduction in mitochondrial function and accelerated skin aging. Restoring NAD levels in the body is therefore considered a promising strategy to improve mitochondrial function and slow down the aging process. This is where various precursor molecules of NAD come into play, z.B. Nicotinamide Riboside.
NAD metabolism and the skin
The NAD metabolism is particularly relevant for the skin, as the skin cells have a high energy demand to regenerate and repair damage. Among others, the American doctor and longevity expert Dr. Peter Attia pointed out in the Huberman Podcast that an increase in NAD levels can protect skin cells from oxidative stress and thus possibly halt skin aging.
NMN, a precursor of NAD+, has recently gained attention as a potent skin anti-aging molecule . It is believed that the topical application of NMN increases NAD levels in the skin, thereby supporting mitochondrial function and cell regeneration.
Longevity technology for skin cells
The gradual loss of cell regeneration with age is one of the main reasons for the aging process of our skin, becoming visible through increasingly deeper wrinkles or dry, inelastic skin.To counteract this process, a solid, scientific technology is required that intervenes in the fundamental building blocks of cellular metabolism.
The combination of the molecule NMN and the Nobel Prize-based HSF™ technology addresses this issue:
NMN Serum: Fewer wrinkles and UVB protection
The NAD metabolism is one of the most important research points for the longevity community. The mitochondria serve as the power plants of our cells, providing energy for skin renewal, among other things. When the mitochondria weaken, the skin can also recover more slowly.
To stimulate skin renewal, the mitochondria must remain efficient. This is where NAD metabolism comes into play. Decreasing NAD levels in the cells are associated with poorer mitochondrial performance.
The molecule NMN as a concentrated serum for the skin intervenes in the NAD metabolism and was able to increase collagen production by up to 70% in a study. NMN contributed in the investigation to repairing old skin cells or possibly eliminating them more quickly, thereby enhancing skin regeneration, which gives the skin a more youthful appearance.
Additionally, topical NMN has proven effective in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of UVB radiation and reducing wrinkle formation. This could mean that NMN-based skincare products have a dual effect: they not only combat the signs of skin aging but also provide protection against further damage from sun exposure.
Did you know?
The coveted "glow" of the skin arises from a complex interaction of several factors, including cell regeneration, hydration, and blood flow. Well-hydrated skin reflects light more efficiently, while regular cell regeneration helps remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface. Not NMN powder, but NMN as a serum was able to effectively neutralize free radicals and improve hydration in the study, leading to a better "glow".
Nobel Prize-based technology for the skin
The hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) belongs to a group of proteins that become active in cells during oxygen deficiency and regulate gene expression to promote cell division, blood vessel formation, and collagen production.These mechanisms are crucial for the skin's ability to repair itself and remain healthy. For the discovery of HIF, William G. Kaelin, Sir Peter Ratcliffe, and Gregg L. Semenza were awarded the Nobel Prize in 2019.
With age, the activity of HIF in the skin decreases, which reduces the ability of skin cells to regenerate and produce key proteins such as collagen and elastin. Stress also leads to a biochemical change in HIF. So we have a similar situation here as with NAD metabolism, and just like with mitochondria, we can also intervene. With the help of specially developed molecules that stimulate HIF proteins (scientifically expressed: HSF technology), we can switch the main switch for cell regeneration back on.
HIF activation for younger skin
HIF has proven to be a significant advancement in the field of skincare. It not only promotes collagen production but also improves the function of mitochondria – the "powerhouses" of the cells – and reduces oxidative stress. This protects the skin from environmental damage and improves its overall health. HIF is therefore a strong regeneration mechanism for our skin. Unfortunately, this effective helper loses its power with age, leading to the skin's reduced ability to renew itself.
With the help of state-of-the-art skincare longevity technology, it is possible to prevent the breakdown of HIF. By not breaking down the molecule, it can act longer in the skin and thus reverse the visible signs of skin aging.
Clinical Results
The theory behind longevity molecules is an important building block, but much more exciting and meaningful are clinical studies. In a six-month, dermatologically controlled, single-blind study, it was found that the HSF technology achieved significant improvements in areas such as skin roughness, hydration, and transepidermal water loss.
To be more precise, the application of HSF led to a visible rejuvenation of the skin by several years. Additionally, a panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons confirmed a significant reduction in wrinkles after 6 weeks of application. The firmness, elasticity, and moisture of the skin were also improved after the 6 weeks. 95% of study participants reported high satisfaction rates and visible improvements in their skin appearance.
Did you know?
The hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) plays a role not only in skin aging but also in hereditary hair loss. For this reason, it was investigated whether HSF technology can also help with hereditary hair loss (alopecia). The results of the study were impressive. After 12 weeks, hair loss was stopped or reduced in 88% of the participants.
Conclusion
Skin aging is a complex process influenced by a variety of internal and external factors. While genetic predisposition plays a role, it is particularly environmental factors such as UV radiation that accelerate the aging process. A promising approach to combating skin aging is the external support of mitochondrial function through innovative skin molecules like NMN.Another approach is the Nobel Prize-winning research on HIF (hypoxia-inducible factor ), which allows us to reactivate cell renewal. By combining these two molecules, we create an innovative longevity skincare complex for younger, smoother skin.
