As skincare aficionados, were always on the lookout for the next best thing in anti-aging. While we love bakuchiol, ceramides, and retinol as much as the next person, sometimes it seems like our skin just needs more. Feel the same? One solution is to turn your attention to epigenetic skincare.
If youre sitting here reading this thinking, epige-what? youre not alone. While epigenetic skincare still needs to be more heavily researched, according to FightAging.org, the general consensus according to is that, since most people experience the appearance of aging due to the same external factors (think: diet, sun exposure, and the like), its possible to study the epigenome to uncover the patterns that are linked with age. By uncovering these patterns, cosmetic chemists can develop products that interact epigenetically to deliver your youngest, most radiantly-looking complexion.
Sounds pretty dreamy, right? To learn more about the high-tech approach, sit down, mute your notifications, and get ready to soak in a whole lot of science in an effort to say hello to your most effective skincare routine.
What is epigenetic skincare?
First things first, lets talk epigenetics as a whole. Scientifically speaking, Olays Principal Scientist, Dr. Frauke Neuser explains that epigenetics describes the study of gene regulation and behavior which happen without any alteration of the genetic code (DNA) itself. In laymans terms, BeautyStats founder and CEO Ron Robinson says, epigenetics is the science behind the fact that environmental factors can affect the expression of genes.
To illustrate this idea, Neuser points out how the genes in the skin that are responsible for collagen production become less active with age, but can also become less active due to external factors, like sun exposure and air pollution. As such, Epigenetic skincare is based on the concept that skincare ingredients can affect gene behavior and counteract undesirable increases or decreases in activity by switching certain genes on or off (although turning genes up or down, like a dimmer light switch, might be the better analogy), he says.
How does epigenetic skincare work differently than traditional formulas?
In short, epigenetic skincare is designed to dive far beyond traditional formulas to not only affect the cellular level but the genetic one, too. While epigenetic concoctions complement traditional formulas, Neuser explains that certain skincare ingredients work directly on skins behavior and appearance while also having the potential to affect skin cells at the gene activity levelwhereas others might only do one or the other. It is usually a combination of ingredients that can achieve the best benefits, he adds. For example, about two years ago, Olay added a new ingredient (carob seed extract) to its Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, accompanying already present niacinamide (vitamin B3) and peptides, based on gene activity studies that showed complementary effects. Clinical studies confirmed the desired anti-aging benefits.
Whats worth noting, however, is that even though brands (Olays not the only one) are uncovering the perks of epigenetic skincare, Robinson points out that theyre not actually allowed to claim that the products work on the genetic level, as that gets into drug territory as determined by the FDA. Thats why so many epigenetic formulations speak to the cosmetic benefits of the product, as opposed to genetic.
What are the benefits of epigenetic skincare?
Along with deep dives into the skin comes the ability to address complexion concerns from an all-encompassing stance. In theory, the idea is to help skin help itself by regulating processes that naturally occur in skin, as opposed to purely relying on extrinsic actives to help and improve skin health and appearance, Neuser says.
In December 2016, scientists at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California, found that, after focusing on epigenetic markers and intermittently altering the genes in mice with progeria, a genetic disease that affects both animals and humans, mice appeared younger and healthier. While mice and humans are two very different things, the researchers concluded that it could lead to positive anti-aging effects for humans, too. (Though, they do note that more research is necessary to reach clinical trials.)
This work shows that epigenetic changes are at least partially driving aging, says Paloma Martinez-Redondo, a Salk Institute research associate and co-author of the study. It gives us exciting insights into which pathways could be targeted to delay cellular aging.
And the Salk scientists arent the only ones who have found promise with epigenetic research. In a September 2018 article published in the SOFW Journal, principal authors found that by targeting epigenetic mechanisms, specific anti-aging ingredients can positively affect the skin, essentially reversing the aging clock to make way for a younger-looking complexion.
Are there any downsides or side effects of using epigenetic skincare?
Downsides are largely undocumented given the shallow pool of research of epigenetic skincare. However, given its tailored directly towards specific genes that affect aging, and it requires elaborate research to even launch, consumers can typically have faith in a quality product that wont cause irritation when they do come across one.That said, its important to understand that creating epigenetic skincare products is a super complex process, so there arent tons of options on the market, in the first place.
At Olay, we have been studying gene activity in skin for over 20 years, because identifying individual genes among the tens of thousands of genes present in our skin cells, and understanding how they work and interact, is the first big step on the epigenetic skincare journey, Neuser explains. Highly complex and sophisticated methods are needed to study gene activity and make sure any changes measured are really relevant and significant.
With that in mind, below youll find four highly-rated epigenetic skincare products. While more science is necessary on the subject, we think the sky-high reviews make testing this seriously-scientific self-care well worth it.
With over 50 million jars sold, its safe to say this drugstore product is a must. Its made with vitamin B3, amino-peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants to address aging concerns topically and deep down10 layers to be exact. While they cant promise gene mutation, they do ensure a noticeable change in the appearance of your skin when used regularly for 28 days straight.
BABOR has done extensive epigenetic research to create their entire Skionvage system, which is focused on the brands Power Peptide to help the skin resist outside factors like sun exposure, pollution, and free radicals as a whole. This cream, in particular, is a dream for reactive skin types, as it reduces redness and calms the complexion on a deep level.
Courtesy of Augustinus Bader
Its important to remember that body care requires skincare too, after all, we do have skin on our bodies. The Augustinus Bader body cream fulfills the basic requirement of moisturizing skin, but what makes this anti-aging body product stand out is that it uses its epigenetic technology to target and treat stretch marks and cellulite with continued use.
Courtesy of Sisley Paris
With heavy research into behavioral aging, Sisley launched this anti-aging serum that tightens, lifts, and smooths skin for a younger-looking appeal. While the price is high, the reviews make it seem well worth it.
See more here:
Epigenetic skincare can actually change your DNAheres what you need to know - Yahoo Lifestyle
- DNA identifies last known remains of victims of notorious Green River Killer, cops say - Miami Herald - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- UNE to study why rare lobsters have strange-colored shells - Spectrum News - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- DNA evidence identifies last known victim of Green River Killer almost 40 years later - NBC Right Now - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- New bill would give California parents more control over whether state can store their kid's DNA - CBS News - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Lucas County Sheriff's Office doing advanced testing on DNA found at site of 2011 Clarke and Straub murders - WTOL - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Last known remains connected to the Green River Killer identified through DNA | WTGS - Fox28 Savannah - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- 5 Best Ancestry DNA Tests 2024 To Help You Learn More About Your Health - GLAMOUR UK - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- 11 Investigates: Lucas County Sheriff's Office doing advanced testing on DNA found at site of 2011 Clarke and Straub murders - WTOL - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Researchers improve blood tests' ability to detect and monitor cancer - MIT News - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- DNA test approved for Duxbury's Lindsay Clancy, who is accused of killing her 3 children - The Patriot Ledger - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- 1,650th victim of 9/11 identified through advanced DNA testing - FOX 17 West Michigan News - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- We Think Cavco Industries (NASDAQ:CVCO) Might Have The DNA Of A Multi-Bagger - Yahoo Finance - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- DNA From the Ocean's 'Twilight Zone' Could Lead to New Lifesaving Drugs, Scientists Say - Smithsonian Magazine - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Last known remains connected to the Green River Killer identified through DNA - KOMO News - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- 9/11 victim identified as John Ballantine Niven of Oyster Bay with help of DNA technology - WABC-TV - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Scott Peterson has every right to DNA test: Attorney from case - NewsNation Now - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- DNA from stone age chewing gum sheds light on diet and disease in Scandinavia's ancient hunter-gatherers - The Conversation - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Barbara Lee responds to Nikki Haley: Racism is in the DNA of this country - The Hill - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- DB Cooper 'will finally be identified' after 53 years due to huge DNA breakthrough - LADbible - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Dog Owners Who Abandon Poops To Be Found Using DNA Tests in Italy - Newsweek - January 23rd, 2024 [January 23rd, 2024]
- Scientists gather bobcat DNA from paw prints - KJZZ - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Discovering Fusions Requires More Than DNA Testing in GI Cancers - OncLive - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Largest-ever ocean DNA study uncovers mysteries of marine life - Earth.com - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- 1st-ever ancient case of Turner syndrome, with just 1 X chromosome instead of 2, found in ancient DNA - Livescience.com - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Minnesota Mother Calls on NYS to Allow DNA Testing Finger Lakes Daily News - Finger Lakes Daily News - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- DNA Didn't Match Marcellus Williams. Missouri May Fast-Track Execution Anyway. - The Intercept - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Ancient DNA From Eurasian Herders Sheds Light on the Origins of Multiple Sclerosis - Smithsonian Magazine - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- DNA's hotel toh kuyabeh mirrors bird flight undulations in tulum - Designboom - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Research into ancient DNA sheds new light on cause of Multiple Sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases - University of Oxford - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Ancient DNA reveals reason for high MS and Alzheimer's rates in Europe - University of Cambridge news - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- TIME-seq reduces time and cost of DNA methylation measurement for epigenetic clock construction - Nature.com - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Gilgo Serial Killer Suspect Rex Heuermann Tied to Slaying by DNA From Daughter's Can of Coffee: Prosecutors - The Messenger - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- DNA evidence leads to arrest of Denton sexual assault suspect - The Cross Timbers Gazette - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Ancient DNA reveals reason for high multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's rates in Europe - EurekAlert - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- New technique identifies earliest cases of genetic disorders from ancient DNA - University of Oxford - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Ancient DNA could be hiding all kinds of health secrets - Deccan Herald - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Ancient DNA reveals reason for high MS and Alzheimer's rates in Europe - ScienceBlog.com - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Supreme Court seeks government's view on DNA profiling of unidentified bodies - IndiaTimes - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Prosecution Ordered to Release Portion of DNA Evidence to Kohberger's Defense Team - bigcountrynewsconnection.com - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Judge orders more DNA disclosure in University of Idaho murder case - KXLY Spokane - January 16th, 2024 [January 16th, 2024]
- Cas9-induced targeted integration of large DNA payloads in primary human T cells via homology-mediated end-joining ... - Nature.com - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- The DNA glycosylase NEIL2 is protective during SARS-CoV-2 infection - Nature.com - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- How an immune response is driven by one letter difference in DNA - Medical Xpress - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Tracy Morgan Discovered He Was Related to Nas After DNA Test - PEOPLE - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Scientists testify about DNA in third week of Aguirre trial - The Spokesman Review - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- DNA metabarcoding focusing on the plankton community: an effective approach to reconstruct the paleo-environment ... - Nature.com - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Advancement in DNA Technology and Tenacity of Cold Case Detective Identifies Victim in 37-year-old Homicide - hellowoodlands.com - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Integrating DNA methylation and gene expression data in a single gene network using the iNETgrate package ... - Nature.com - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Forensic scientist testifies about evidence contamination at state lab in 1986, says knowledge of DNA has since ... - The Spokesman Review - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Tracy Morgan Discovers He Is Related To Nas Through DNA Test - BET - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- DNA discovery opens door to tailored medicine for Indigenous Australians | Australian National University - ANU - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Tracy Morgan Started Crying After Learning Hes Related To Nas Through A DNA Test - TODAY - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Electric eel zaps do more than just stun they can alter the DNA of their victims, study suggests - Salon - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Blueface Says He Took a DNA Test That Proves He's Not the Father of Chrisean Rock's Son: 'Thank You Jesus' - Complex - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Altina Wildlife Park to use DNA tests to find mystery father of black-and-white ruffed lemur triplets - ABC News - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- In the Shadow of Rome: Ancient DNA Recasts Balkan History - SciTechDaily - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Even microbes felt the impact of ancient climate transitions, McMaster DNA researchers find - Brighter World - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Clarence 'Red' Wilson cold case murder: DNA helps Montgomery County detective break 37-year unsolved Texas homicide - KTRK-TV - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- How Construction Companies Can Make Diversity Part of Their DNA - For Construction Pros - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- DNA analysis of bat droppings shows astonishingly high number of insect species - Phys.org - December 14th, 2023 [December 14th, 2023]
- Co-Lin football's blue-collar DNA on display in huge road win at Gulf ... - Dailyleader - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- DNA methylation: The hidden mechanism enabling plants to adapt ... - EurekAlert - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- Neanderthals carried genes acquired from ancient interactions with ... - Penn Today - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- DNA meythlation clocks and their limitations - Lifespan.io News - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- Neanderthal DNA may shape how sensitive you are to pain, genetic ... - Livescience.com - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- OvaPrint a cell-free DNA methylation liquid biopsy for the risk ... - Cancer Discovery - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- After being freed once, Ohio man languishes on death row - Ohio Capital Journal - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- Maximizing ROI With Cattle DNA Testing - AG INFORMATION ... - AGInfo Ag Information Network - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- Pittsburgh's Opening Night Roster Stays True to Its DNA | Pittsburgh ... - NHL.com - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- Indonesia turns to DNA technology to save their sharks - Earth.com - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- There are 750 unidentified human remains in Australia. Could your ... - The Conversation - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- Baltimore Witness - Baltimore Witness - October 13th, 2023 [October 13th, 2023]
- DNA Chips: The Billion Gigabyte Storage Solution of Tomorrow - SciTechDaily - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- DNA's 'topography' influences where cancer-causing mutations appear - Livescience.com - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- Dog diversity unveiled by international DNA database - Science Daily - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- DNA from UW student attack 'one in one quadrillion' match to suspect - The Capital Times - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- Invitation: TAG Heuer popup to showcase its DNA and motorsports - - Deployant - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- Ancient Clostridium DNA and variants of tetanus neurotoxins ... - Nature.com - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- DNA methylation and the opposing NMDAR dysfunction in ... - Nature.com - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]
- 'I don't think it's in her DNA': Man who co-authored Murdaugh book with Colleton Co. Clerk of Court discusses allegations - ABC NEWS 4 - September 9th, 2023 [September 9th, 2023]