What if there was 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 such as 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 work as a skin serum against wrinkles and UV damage?
In this article, we give you a deep insight into the science behind skin aging and what methods exist to stop or possibly reverse it.
Skin aging: How does our largest organ change as we age?
Our skin, the largest organ of the human body, is subject to 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, which leads to visible signs such as wrinkles, fine lines and uneven skin tone.
A central aspect of skin aging is the decrease in the production of collagen, a structural protein responsible for the skin's firmness and elasticity. Over time, this decline leads to thinner, sagging skin that is no longer able to adequately recover from damage.
Sunlight – curse or blessing for the skin?
UV radiation is one of the most important external factors that contribute 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, pigment spots and a rough skin texture.
UV radiation not only causes direct DNA damage, but also promotes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)that cause oxidative stress. This oxidative stress damages cell membranes, proteins and even the mitochondria, the "power plants" of our cellswhich are responsible for energy production. As we age, the skin's ability to recover from this damage becomes increasingly limited.
Did you know?
Although sunlight causes our skin to age, it is nevertheless necessary for the sufficient production of vitamin DEspecially in winter, the body's production of vitamin D decreases because the UV rays are no longer strong enough. And another point: sunlight has been proven to promote a good mood.
collagen production in old age
collagen is the most common protein in the skin and together with elastin and hyaluronic acid the framework that gives the skin its structure and elasticity. Collagen production reaches its peak in the late teens and then gradually begins to decline. From the age of 30, the skin loses a little of its ability to produce collagen every year. In this study The scientists investigated how the skin of 18-29 year olds differs from the skin of 80 year olds. The result: the 80 year olds had a reduction of around 75% in collagen production. In addition, there were significantly fewer fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen).
As collagen production decreases, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture and repair damage. This leads to thinning of the dermis (the middle layer of the skin), reduced elasticity and the formation of wrinkles. Supporting collagen production is therefore a key element in strengthening the skin from within. In studies, collagen peptides that can be easily ingested through food have proven to be effective. You can find out more about this in our article on collagen.
Mitochondria: How the power plants of cells change with age
Mitochondria are responsible for energy production in our cells and play a crucial role in cellular health and function. With increasing age, the efficiency of mitochondria decreases, leading to a decline in cellular energy productionThis process, known as “mitochondrial dysfunction“, contributes significantly to skin aging.
Mitochondrial function is affected 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 cell damage and accelerating the aging process.
Did you know?
The skin is a dynamic organ that is constantly renewing itself. In the case of us humans, this is about 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 take twice as longThis 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 that is 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, with his Research on sirtuins and resveratrol a decisive contribution to longevity world.
As we age, 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. Various precursor molecules of NAD come into question here, e.g. nicotinamide riboside.
NAD metabolism and the skin
NAD metabolism is particularly relevant for the skin, as the skin cells have a high energy requirementto regenerate and repair damage. Among others, the American doctor and longevity expert Dr. Peter Attia in the Huberman Podcast pointed out that a Increasing NAD levels can protect skin cells from oxidative stress and thus possibly slow down skin aging.
NMN, a precursor to NAD+, has recently been potent skin anti-aging molecule Attention is gained. It is assumed that the topical application of NMN increases NAD levels in the skin, supporting mitochondrial function and cell regeneration.
Longevity technology for skin cells
The slow loss of cell regeneration as we age is one of the main reasons for the aging process of our skin, which becomes visible through ever deeper wrinkles or dry, inelastic skin. In order to counteract this process, a well-founded, scientific technology is required that intervenes in the basic building blocks of cell metabolism.
The combination of the NMN molecule and the Nobel Prize-based HSF™ technology starts right here:
NMN serum: Fewer wrinkles and UVB protection
NAD metabolism is one of the most important research topics for the longevity community. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells and provide energy for skin renewal, among other things. If the mitochondria become weaker, the skin can also recover more slowly.
In order to stimulate skin renewal, the mitochondria must remain efficient. This is where NAD metabolism comes into play. The falling 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 helps to repair old skin cells or, if necessary, eliminate them more quickly and thus increase skin regeneration, which gives the skin a more youthful appearance gives.
In addition, topical NMN has been shown to be effective in protecting the skin from harmful effects of UVB radiation and reduce wrinkle formation. This could mean that NMN-based skin care products have a double effect They not only combat the signs of skin aging, but also provide protection against further damage caused by sun exposure.
Did you know?
The coveted "Glow" of the skin is caused by a complex interaction of several factors, including cell regeneration, hydration and blood flowWell-hydrated skin reflects light more efficiently, while regular cell regeneration helps remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface. In the study, NMN as a serum was able to effectively neutralize free radicals and improve hydration, resulting in a better “glow.”
Nobel Prize-based technology for the skin
The hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) belongs to a group of proteins that become active when cells lack oxygen 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 stay healthy. William G. Kaelin, Sir Peter Ratcliffe and Gregg L. Semenza received the Nobel Prize in 2019 for the discovery of HIF.
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 the mitochondria, we can also intervene. With the help of specially developed molecules that stimulate HIF proteins (scientifically expressed: HSF technology) we can turn 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 skin care. It not only promotes collagen production but also improves mitochondrial function – the “powerhouses” of cells – and reduces oxidative stress. This protects the skin from environmental damage and improves its overall health. HIF is therefore a powerful regeneration mechanism for our skinUnfortunately, this effective helper loses its power with age, which means that the skin can no longer renew itself as well.
With the help of the latest Skincare-Longevity technology it is possible to prevent the degradation of HIFBy not breaking down the molecule, it can stay in the skin longer, reversing the visible signs of aging.
Clinical results
The theory behind longevity molecules is an important building block, much more exciting and clinical studies are more meaningfulIn a six-month, dermatologically controlled, single-blind study HSF technology has been found to achieve significant improvements in areas such as skin roughness, hydration and transepidermal water loss.
To be more precise, the application of HSF resulted in a visible rejuvenation of the skin by several yearsIn addition, a panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons confirmed a significant reduction in wrinkles after 6 weeks of use. The firmness, elasticity and moisture of the skin were also improved after 6 weeks. 95% of study participants reported high satisfaction rates and visible improvements in their skin.
Did you know?
The hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) not only plays a role 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 participants.
Conclusion
Skin aging is a complex process that is 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 combat skin aging is the external support of mitochondrial function through innovative skin active ingredients such as NMN. Another approach is the Nobel Prize-winning research on HIF (hypoxia-inducible factor), which stimulates cell renewal. If we combine these two molecules, we get an innovative longevity skincare complex for younger, smoother skin.
