The skin has a natural barrier function that helps to retain moisture and protect against external irritants. This barrier is formed by various components, including the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis), tight junctions between skin cells, and structures called desmosomes and hemidesmosomes that help to anchor cells together.

Several factors can disrupt this barrier and lead to increased trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).

When the skin’s barrier is compromised, it loses its ability to retain moisturise effectively. This leads to increased TEWL, where water evaporates from the skin surface more rapidly. As a result, the skin becomes dehydrated, dry, and more prone to irritation and inflammation.

To prevent excessive TEWL and maintain skin hydration, it’s important to support the skin’s barrier function. This can be done by using gentle cleansers, avoiding over-exfoliation, protecting the skin from harsh environmental conditions, and using moisturisers that contain humectants, emollients, and occlusives to help lock in moisture and prevent water loss. Additionally, incorporating a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also contribute to maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

Water plays a vital role in maintaining skin health and ensuring the homeostasis of the skin. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining the integrity, elasticity, and overall appearance of the skin.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and serves as a protective barrier against external environmental factors. Water is crucial for maintaining the proper function of this barrier. It helps to keep the skin hydrated, supple, and plump, which contributes to a healthy and youthful appearance.

To understand the water requirements for skin health, it’s important to consider both external and internal factors that can influence hydration and dehydration of the skin.

External factors that can lead to dehydration of the skin include:

1. Environmental conditions: Exposure to dry air, low humidity, or extreme temperatures can cause moisture to evaporate from the skin, leading to dehydration.
2. Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin’s natural barrier and increase water loss, resulting in dryness and dehydration.
3. Harsh chemicals: Frequent use of harsh soaps, detergents, or skincare products containing alcohol can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and dehydration.

Internal factors that can affect skin hydration include:

1. Age: As we age, the skin’s ability to retain moisture decreases, making it more prone to dryness and dehydration. It is particularly important for older individuals to ensure adequate hydration.
2. Diet and nutrition: A balanced diet that includes foods rich in water content, such as fruits and vegetables, can contribute to overall hydration. On the other hand, a diet lacking in water-rich foods or excessive consumption of dehydrating substances like caffeine or alcohol can lead to skin dehydration.
3. Health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or eczema, can impair the skin’s ability to retain moisture, resulting in dry and dehydrated skin.
4. Skin disorders: Certain skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or psoriasis, can impair the skin’s barrier function. In these conditions, the skin’s protective barrier is compromised, making it more susceptible to TEWL and external irritants.

To maintain skin health and protect against dehydration, it is recommended to drink an adequate amount of water daily. While the exact water requirements can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, climate, and activity level, a general guideline is to consume at least 1.9 litres of water per day. However, individual needs may vary, and it’s important to listen to your body’s thirst signals and drink more if necessary.

In addition to drinking water, there are other ways to support skin hydration:

1. Use moisturisers: Apply hydrating skincare products that contain humectants, emollients, and occlusives to lock in moisture and prevent water loss from the skin.
2. Protect against sun damage: Use sunscreen with a high SPF and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimise the damaging effects of UV rays on the skin’s hydration.
3. Avoid hot showers: Excessive hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and contribute to dehydration. Opt for lukewarm showers or baths instead.
4. Humidify the air: Use a humidifier, especially during dry seasons or in environments with low humidity, to add moisture to the air and prevent excessive evaporation from the skin.

In conclusion, water is crucial for maintaining skin health and the homeostasis of the skin. Adequate hydration, both internally through drinking water and externally through skincare practices, helps to keep the skin moisturised, supple, and protected against dehydration caused by external and internal influences.

So when using moisturisers, humectants are ingredients that attract and retain moisture from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin. They help to hydrate the skin by increasing its water content. Examples of humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and sorbitol. Humectants are generally non-comedogenic and safe to use on acne-prone skin.

Humectants

When it comes to trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and organic ingredients, humectants play a significant role in hydrating the skin and minimising water loss. Organic humectants are derived from natural sources and can be beneficial for maintaining skin hydration.

Here are some examples of organic humectants commonly used in skincare:

1. Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that has the ability to attract and hold a significant amount of water. It has a lightweight, gel-like texture and is highly effective in retaining moisture, helping to improve skin hydration and plumpness. Organic hyaluronic acid is derived from natural sources, such as plant-based fermentation or bio-fermentation.
2. Glycerin: also known as glycerol, is a humectant widely used in skincare products. It has excellent water-binding properties and helps to attract moisture from the environment to the skin. Organic glycerin is derived from vegetable oils, typically palm or coconut oil, through a process called saponification. It is considered safe, gentle, and suitable for various skin types.
3. Sorbitol: Sorbitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol derived from fruits and berries. It has humectant properties that help to draw moisture to the skin and enhance hydration. Organic sorbitol is obtained through the fermentation of organic raw materials, ensuring a natural and sustainable source for skincare formulations.

Organic humectants not only provide hydration to the skin but also offer the advantage of being derived from natural and sustainable sources. They are generally well-tolerated by different skin types, including acne-prone skin, as they do not typically clog pores or contribute to breakouts.

When using organic humectants to combat TEWL and improve skin hydration, it’s important to consider the formulation of the product as a whole. Look for skincare products that combine organic humectants with other nourishing and supporting ingredients, such as natural oils, botanical extracts, and antioxidants. This can create a synergistic effect, enhancing the overall hydration and health of the skin.

It’s worth noting that while organic humectants can effectively attract moisture to the skin, they work best when used in conjunction with other moisturising ingredients, such as emollients and occlusives, to lock in that moisture and prevent water loss.

By incorporating skincare products with organic humectants, you can promote and maintain optimal hydration in the skin, helping to improve its overall health, elasticity, and appearance.

Emollients

Emollients are moisturising ingredients that help to soften and smooth the skin’s surface by filling in the gaps between skin cells. They form a protective barrier that helps to reduce water loss and keep the skin hydrated. Common emollients include plant oils, shea butter, and ceramides. Emollients are also generally non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.

When it comes to emollients, there are organic options available that can provide hydration and nourishment to the skin. Organic emollients are derived from natural and organic sources, often free from synthetic chemicals and additives. These ingredients offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to skincare.

Here are some examples of bio-organic emollients commonly used in skincare:

1. Plant oils: organic plant oils, such as jojoba oil, argan oil, rosehip oil, and coconut oil, are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help to replenish the skin’s lipid barrier. These oils have emollient properties, providing a smooth and soft texture to the skin while helping to reduce water loss.
2. Shea butter: Derived from the nuts of the shea tree, shea butter is a organic emollient known for its exceptional moisturising properties. It is rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, which help to nourish and protect the skin. Shea butter absorbs easily into the skin, leaving it hydrated and supple.
3. Ceramides: Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids found in the skin’s outermost layer. They play a vital role in maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. Organic skincare products may contain ceramides derived from plant sources, such as wheat germ or rice bran, to provide additional hydration and support the skin’s barrier function.

Organic emollients are generally well-tolerated by the skin, making them suitable for acne-prone skin. They are less likely to clog pores or cause breakouts compared to some synthetic emollients. However, it’s important to note that individual skin sensitivity can vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always recommended to patch-test new products on a small area of the skin before applying them to the entire face.

Overall, incorporating organic emollients into your skincare routine can offer a gentle and nourishing approach to hydrating the skin, particularly for individuals with acne-prone skin who may be more cautious about potential comedogenic ingredients.

Occlusives

Occlusives are ingredients that create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in moisture. They are typically heavier and more occlusive than emollients. Common occlusive ingredients include petrolatum, mineral oil, and silicones. These 3 products are not recommended for any skin condition within Charmaine D’s clinic.

Whilst occlusives can effectively hydrate the skin, they have the potential to clog pores and cause acne breakouts in some individuals, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin. They can also cause the skin to not desquamate correctly and skin can look very wrinkled and become thicker to look at.

Regarding the use of occlusives on acne-prone skin, it’s important to note that everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some individuals with acne-prone skin may find that occlusive ingredients exacerbate their acne by trapping sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

In such cases, using organic and non-invasive ingredients can be a good alternative to keep the skin hydrated. These types of ingredients often focus on gentle hydration without the heavy occlusive properties. Look for moisturisers that contain a combination of humectants and lightweight emollients, such as aloe vera, cucumber extract, or jojoba oil. These ingredients can provide hydration without weighing down the skin or potentially causing breakouts.

Ultimately, it’s essential to listen to your skin and observe how it responds to different moisturising products. If occlusives work well for you and do not contribute to acne breakouts, they can be beneficial for locking in moisture. However, if you find that occlusives worsen your acne, it may be better to explore alternative moisturisers that are formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients.

Charmaine D, our naturopath, is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in for a free 30 minute skincare consult and see how she can help you!

Charmaine D’s main focus is always Natural Skin Hygiene, and as a naturopath works with the skin using the principles of corneotherapy.

What does this mean? To put it simply, it is the care of the Stratum Corneum, the outer layer of the skin and our first line of defence for the body, with topical therapies using products that mimic skin structure and function.

It is an innovative and progressive way of thinking, using the core principles of correction and restoration of the stratum corneum and barrier defence systems, while keeping the epidermis intact at all costs. It is otherwise known as the outside-in approach to skin repair.

Charmaine D takes your skin seriously and uses a naturopathic approach to treating your skin and your skin’s conditions. Through her use of corneotherapy she can facilitate your skincare needs.

To read the blog “Enhancing Immunity and Skin Protection: Exploring Contrast Showers vs. Ice Baths,” click the button below.

Charmaine D, our naturopath, is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in for a free 30 minute skincare consult and see how she can help you!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsweetened almond coconut milk
• 1 cup fresh kale leaves, finely chopped and stems removed
• 3 ice cubes
• 1 cup chopped pineapple (can be frozen)
• 1 sliced banana (can be frozen)
• 1 chopped kiwi fruit
• 1 dollop of plain yoghurt (optional)
• Juice of ½ lime (optional)

Note for those with a sweet tooth: a little honey can be added

Instructions:

1. Place the kale and unsweetened almond coconut milk in a blender
2. Blend until smooth
3. Add ice and remaining ingredients and, once again, blend until smooth
4. Pour into a large glass
5. Garnish with low sugar granola and/or chai seeds

SEPAL’S FARMHOUSE FRAGRANT SAFFRON CAULIFLOWER RICE

Ingredients:

Makes approximately 4 serves.

• 1 teaspoon organic extra virgin coconut oil
• ½ teaspoon ginger finely grated
• 2 small cloves garlic crushed
• 1 small brown onion finely chopped
• 1⁄2 head fresh cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons beef bone broth (optional)
• 1 teaspoon coconut cream
• 1 pinch saffron (about 20 threads)
• 2 tablespoons water
• Sea salt, to taste
• Sprig of mint (for garnish)
• Extra saffron threads (for garnish)

Prepare saffron:

• Place saffron threads in a small bowl
• Pour 2 tablespoons warm water over saffron
• Stand for a minimum of 10 minutes

Prepare cauliflower:

• Cut the cauliflower in half
• Remove the leaves
• Remove the core at the base
• Cut into 3-5 cm florets
• Place in food processor in small batches (approx. 5)
• Pulse about twice or until mixture resembles the texture of rice
• Will make approx. 4 cups cauliflower rice

Cooking Instructions:

• In a large pan, heat the coconut oil over a medium heat.
• Add ginger and garlic and saute, stirring frequently.
• Add onion and cook until tender, stirring frequently.
• Add cauliflower rice and beef bone broth (optional) and cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
• Add coconut cream and stir through thoroughly.
• Add saffron and water and stir through quickly.
• Remove pan from heat and season cauliflower rice with sea salt, to taste.
• Serve garnished with mint and saffron threads.

Charmaine D, our naturopath, is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in for a free 30 minute skincare consult and see how she can help you!

The first signs of facial ageing tend to appear around the eyes due to the fragile nature of eye skin which is not as effective in absorbing and retaining moisture. This delicate skin lacks the oil glands and collagen that exist in our other face and body skin. Studies have shown that in areas where collagen and sebaceous glands are less dense, the skin is more vulnerable to dryness, sagging and wrinkling.

Introducing the Ideal Eye Care Duo by Cell Defence

Saffron Eye Firming Plant Stem Cell Serum + Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser.

Soften fine lines and wrinkles + improve hydration and increase elasticity.

The skin around the eyes reacts more strongly to external, environmental influences due to the lack of sebaceous glands or supporting tissue. Exposure to sunlight, dust, and/or dry air, insufficient sleep and inadequate diet are some of these influences which could easily lead to dry, crepey eye skin.

This eye skin is a unique type and requires different and extra special care with the support of both a serum, to essentially repair and rejuvenate whilst softening fine lines and wrinkles, and a moisturiser to essentially improve hydration and increase elasticity. It is suggested to use products that are made specifically for the eye skin and to avoid the use of products that lack the ability to absorb and moisturise effectively. Cell Defence dedicated eye serum and eye moisturiser are potentially the ideal pigeon pair for every day eye skin nourishment and protection.

Ingredients to Avoid

Unseemly eye skin care practices and products may lead to fine lines, wrinkles, dryness and lack of effective protection. Thin eye skin is less resistant to harsh chemicals and we need to use the correct products so as to avoid irritation or allergic reactions. It is important to check product ingredients, ensuring they do not include chemicals such as topical steroids, alcohol, salicylic acid or synthetic fragrance.

Note: Formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, sometimes found in eyelash glue and makeup, should also be avoided as they can cause irritation to the skin and eyes.

Eye Skin Cleansing

It is important to very gently cleanse the skin around the eyes every morning and evening to remove any mascara, makeup and grime. Failure to do so may lead to dry skin and irritation. The gentle, natural ingredients in Cell Defence Wild Chamomile Cleansing Milk will softly and effectively lift and remove eye make-up and impurities whilst maintaining a natural moisture balance. Firstly, wash your hands then moisten an eye remover pad with the cleansing milk and ever so gently wipe your eyelashes, eyelids and under the eye. Rinse using warm water. With a clean eye remove pad, repeat the same process for the other eye.

Applying the Serum

Gently add a light dab of Saffron Eye Serum to the skin surrounding the eyes each morning and evening. This eye serum is synergistically formulated with natural, active ingredients that will softly and deeply penetrate the delicate skin in the eye region to essentially help with skin regeneration and repair. Consequently, softened lines and wrinkles will become less apparent and skin will become less sagging. Also, the saffron in this eye serum is loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin C to help protect the eye skin against free radicals thus keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay.

Applying the Moisturiser

Gently dab a little of the Fenugreek and Hops Eye Moisturiser over the Saffron Eye Serum morning and evening. This non-oily, ultra-fine elixir will then melt on contact with the skin, disperse evenly, and absorb quickly and deeply into the delicate layers.

It has been created with a synergy of natural ingredients including Lavender Water, Fenugreek Seed Extracts, Hops, Cupuacu Seed Butter, Beta-Glucan and Hydrolysed Jojoba Esters to ultimately provide the eye skin with superior, long-lasting hydration and moisturisation and protect against infection and environmental stresses.

“The question is not what you look at, but what you see.” – Henry David Thoreau, essayist, poet and philosopher.

Eye Conditions

The heart controls the blood which nourishes our eyes pigeon paired

The heart also harbours our spirit and energetics and, as such, the eyes command the heart

Dry eye is an inflammatory condition whereby the surface of the eye is affected. Tear film is the layer of tears that cover and protect the ocular surface of the eye. Dry eye occurs when this tear film does not function correctly as a result of tear depletion or excessive tear evaporation and results in symptoms of ocular discomfort.

Although dry eyes can be the consequence of numerous situations and conditions, often acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can help with the management of the dry eye problem, resulting in reduced symptoms.

The middle layer that makes most of the tears is produced by the lacrimal glands and smaller glands located in the conjunctiva. Here, salts, proteins and antibodies are also present, all of which are crucial for corneal wound repair and fighting against infection.

The layer of the eye responsible for enabling tears – mucous layer – is also the layer that removes any unwanted fatty compounds from the surface of the corneal.
The aqueous layer determines the quantity of tears while the mucous layers determines the quality of the tears. Therefore, dry eye can be caused by one of two
things; evaporative dry eye wherein there is a low level of tear quality, or aqueous insufficiency which is a result of a low quantity of tears. Aqueous insufficiency occurs when the watery component of the tear is not being produced sufficiently by the lacrimal gland. This creates what’s known as hyperosmolarity wherein the salts and proteins of the tears are too highly concentrated. These high concentrations can irritate the eye, resulting in inflammation.

• Our eyes reflect the function of the liver. Lack of blood in the liver may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. In Chinese Traditional Medicine liver Qi (energy) is connected to the eye and when emotional, and/or fight or flight, stress is in play it may affect our liver. Consequently, this may cause imbalance in our vision and eye focus. The liver governs the tears. Liver-Yin (fluid, substance) deficiency may cause dryness of the eyes and Liver Yang (energy, movement) excess may cause watery eyes. An equal balance of Liver Yin and Liver Yang is ideal for our vision and eye focus.
• Lungs dominate our Qi, which in turn gives our eyes brightness.
• The spleen Qi controls the circulation of blood in the eye’s blood vessels.
• The kidneys govern fluids. The Kidney meridian nourishes the blood to the eyes which in turn assists with the internal water metabolism which is frequently linked to dry eye syndrome, whereby it moistens the eyes.
• The yin and yang supports a lot of eye function, including the aqueous (the clear liquid inside the front part of the eye).
• It is thought that people who are thinkers exhibit dark blue-black circles around the eyes – their eyes may be deep set and hypersensitive to light.
• Transient discomfort may be stimulated by environmental conditions, inflammation and ocular surface damage.
• Blepharitis is one of the most frequently observed conditions among eye care practitioners, yet remains largely misunderstood. It is a common eyelid inflammation that is sometimes associated with a bacterial eye infection, symptoms of dry eyes or certain types of skin conditions such as acne rosacea. It is more likely that people with Blepharitis will suffer from certain inflammatory diseases, psychological issues, cardiovascular diseases and more.
• Migraine sufferers have significantly worse dry eye scores.
• Other eye conditions include Ocular Allergy and Allergic Conjunctivitis.

Diet, Vitamins, Eye Care Hints and Exercise

• Slash sugar and load up on leafy greens.
• Vitamin A is crucial for the health of the eye’s cornea and conjunctiva. It is also necessary to make mucin which comprises the mucous (innermost) layer of the eye.
• Potassium is considered the most important mineral for dry eye symptoms because it is one of the principle components that comprise tear film. Patients with dry eyes are usually linked to low intake of folic acid, Vitamin C and Vitamin B6 along with high sugar consumption. Increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables (one banana, for example, contains 400 mg) easily enables you to consume at least 500 mg of potassium per day.
• The B vitamins are of importance in treating dry eyes. However, Vitamin B6 is extra special because it aids in the proper absorption of magnesium which can help our bodies to make a hormone called prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) which is essential for the formation of tears.
• Vitamin C is found in greater concentrations in the tear film than in the blood.
• Vitamin D (vitamin D3 recommended). 2,000 IU–5,000 IU per day. Not only is dry eye syndrome associated with low levels of vitamin D, but the evaporative type of dry eye syndrome is linked to changes in cornea structure (which may be linked to vitamin D deficiency).
• Consume foods rich in antioxidants as they are known to enhance vision bystrengthening retinal tissue and improving circulation. Take a break and have a green tea; a beverage ever so rich in antioxidants.
• Evening primrose or black currant oil. This produces the fatty compound that stimulates aqueous tear secretion as well as reduces another fatty compound which can often cause inflammation.
• Green tea extract. Showed in a case study, patients who’s meibomian glands were malfunctioning improved dramatically.
• Kidney yin tonic. assists with water metabolism throughout the body.
• Castor oil eyedrops Using this before bedtime can help keep the eyes lubricated as well as providing natural anti-inflammatory properties.
• Limit or avoid sugar and artificial sweeteners. If our diet consists of too much sugar then our bodies have too much glucose which can then make its way to the eyes. In addition to this, excess sugar can also increase the chances of diabetes. And over 50% of people suffering from diabetes also suffer from dry eye syndrome. “Consumption of 11 teaspoons of sugar a day has been linked to dry eye syndrome, “It’s thought that excess sugar in the diet results in too much unusable glucose in the eyes, and more than half of all diabetics suffer from dry eye syndrome.”
• Toxic fats in commercial red meats, dairy products, fried foods, and hydrogenated oils (such as margarine and shortening) should be avoided. These fats interfere with the essential fatty acids our bodies need, therefore causing dry eye syndrome.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. It is essential to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day to promote the production of tears and alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes.
• Gut issues may contribute to dry eye. If inflammation is a contributing factor in your dry eye, then it is imperative to look at the possibility that your gut (leaky gut) may be the source of the inflammation, as well as imbalances in gut flora. Chronic inflammatory conditions have been tied to dry eye syndrome. Firstly, a high quality probiotic may be the answer for replenishment of the healthy flora in your gut, especially if you have been on long-term antibiotics. Secondly, try moving to probiotics in pill form once your symptoms are under control. Thirdly, switch to real food ferments, such as sauerkraut, pickles, miso, kefir, kombucha, kimchi, etc. These foods provide a greater variety of beneficial bacteria plus they contain many vitamins and minerals. Available in pill form.
• Invest in amber glasses. Amber-hued glasses can be effective in filtering the blue light from computer and phone screens. This blue light can cause dry eye as well as disrupt our hormones.
• An active lifestyle is essential for preventing depletion of the vital essence and the build-up of toxic wastes in the body. I recommend a program that includes cardiovascular exercise every other day and tai chi or qi gong exercises for 30 minutes every day. The exercise called ‘Warming Up the Eyes’ works directly on the eyes to improve circulation and reduce symptoms, and you can do it every day, to help preserve good vision.
• Do a twice-a-day warm compress. A warm compress is a quick and easy way to help with the symptoms of dry eye. Apply a warm, wet cloth over your eyes for ten minutes twice a day to help open the oil glands of the eyelids allowing natural oils to flow and relieve the discomfort of dry eyes.
• Crying is the human act of releasing emotions in order to decrease stress chemicals. With this theory in mind, crying may also help to prevent stress-related diseases.

“The eyes are the windows to your soul.” – William Shakespeare poet, playwright and actor

Charmaine D, our naturopath, is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in for a free 30 minute skincare consult and see how she can help you!

Anti-ageing is a common concern when it comes to skin care, and the ingredients and products on the market for fighting the signs of ageing are ever growing.

Most of us know about the environmental factors which contribute to ageing skin, but how many of us know about the relationship between sugar and the ageing effect on the skin? 

What is glycation?

Glycation is a naturally-occurring chemical reaction that causes sugars, like glucose or fructose, to bind to proteins and lipids throughout the body. When this occurs, the proteins and lipids involved in the glycation process become damaged. 

With your skin, glycation can be likened to the action of drawing the cord closed on the old-fashioned dilly bag. When opened and laid flat, the dilly bag has no wrinkles, as your skin does when there is nothing pulling on the elastin fibres under the skin. When we pull the cord on the dilly bag, the tension causes the bag to crease. The sugaring of the elastin fibres under your skin are pulling the cord and creasing the skin.

The result is the formation of AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Product):

• Extrinsic skin ageing: caused by environmental factors.
• Can result from exposure to sunlight and UV radiation
• Can be generated by irreversible oxidation, polymerization, dehydration and cross-linking

So what happens when those important proteins are unable to properly support the structure of the skin?

Some results of glycation of the skin include:

• Acceleration of skin becoming aged
• Deterioration and/or reduction in collagen and elastin
• Loss of some of the skin’s fat layer
• Dehydrated skin
• Cross linking
• Inflammation
• Impaired skin regeneration

Some signs of glycation of the skin to look out for include:

• Dryer, rougher and/or less firm skin
• Lined, wrinkled, flaky, thinner, looser and/or duller skin
• Lipofuscin – yellow to brown spots appear on the skin
• Sallow (yellow-brown in colour) skin

So what can we do to mitigate skin glycation?

Introduing Cell Defence Anti-Glycageing Plant Stem Cell Serum: anti-ageing support from the earth and the ocean. This serum contains an array of active ingredients synergistically formulated to help mitigate skin glycation.

Daily Application of Cell Defence Anti-Glycageing Plant Stem Cell Serum supports skin rejuvenation by helping to:

• Increase deep hydration
• Repair damaged cells
• Replace dead or worn out cells
• Strengthen collagen and elastin
• Strengthen the fibres in the skin to tone and lift its appearance
• Provide necessary protection to the skin’s delicately balanced process of renewal
• Reduce photodamaged skin conditions
• Reduce the signs of fine lines and wrinkles • strengthening skin elasticity
• Lighten dark spots

Skin will appear:

• More hydrated and moist
• Smoother
• Less lined
• Firmer
• Plumper
• Clearer
• Brighter
• More uplifted

Potent, active ingredients include:

Echinacea

Loaded with plant compounds that function as antioxidants, such as flavonoids, cichoric acid and rosmarinic acid, which may help to defend the body against oxidative stress.

Prickly Pear Seed Oil

1. Extremely rich in Vitamins C and K essential fatty acids and antioxidants.
2. Helps minimise the crosslinking of collagen and elastin, a process which results in wrinkles.
3. Brightens the complexion
4. Reduces the appearance of hyper-pigmentation and/or dark spots

Chitin (Mushroom)

1. Carrier of other active ingredients
2. Anti-aging properties
3. Antioxidant and antimicrobiant
4. Natural skin lightener for age spots and discolorations
5. Exfoliating ability helps stimulate the natural renewal process
6. Improves skin texture

Micro Algae

1. Described as having the ability to anti glycate due to its natural antioxidant compounds, including carotenoids (eg beta-carotene) and unsaturated fatty acids.
2. Blue-Green Algae helps to strengthen the fibres in the skin, which tones and lifts its appearance, and the fatty acids help to improve the skin’s structure, increasing firmness and elasticity. The hydrating and other unique properties of this formula become even more powerful when combined with Beta-gluten which has been proven to deeply penetrate the skin.
3. Astaxanthin (Red Haematococcus Algae) has been shown to have anti-wrinkle and antioxidant effects.

Tomato fruit

Contains Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent collagen deterioration.

Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract

Superior skin conditioning ingredient

Aloe Vera

1. Deeply hydrates and moisturises
2. Improves skin elasticity
3. Softens hardened skin cells and tightens pores

To find out more including reviewing the skin as a mitochondriac, and how we can lessen the severity of the ageing directly linked to the process of glycation, read our naturopath Charmaine D’s article here.

Charmaine D, our naturopath, is here for you and is committed to helping you move through your ailments and forward into the rest of your life. 

Book in for a free 30 minute skincare consult and see how she can help you!