Understanding Glycation and Its Impact on Skin Aging

Glycation is a biochemical process where sugar molecules bind to proteins like collagen and elastin, forming harmful compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Over time, AGEs accumulate in the skin and contribute to wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and a dull complexion. Unlike sun damage or pollution, glycation is often an overlooked cause of skin aging, but its effects are significant.

Why Is Glycation a Problem?

AGEs not only degrade collagen and elastin but also trigger oxidative stress and inflammation by binding to AGE receptors, known as RAGE. This process accelerates visible aging signs, making skin appear tired and less resilient. As awareness of longevity and wellness grows, targeting sugar-induced skin aging is becoming an important focus in dermatology and skincare.

Introducing ICP De-AGE I: A New Approach to Anti-Glycation Skincare

Traditional anti-glycation skincare ingredients primarily function as antioxidants that prevent AGE formation. However, Incospharm’s ICP De-AGE I offers a more advanced solution by not only preventing glycation but also actively eliminating existing AGEs.

How ICP De-AGE I Works

  • Prevents AGE Formation by acting as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress, which contributes to glycation.
  • Eliminates Existing AGEs by stimulating autophagy, the body’s natural cellular renewal process, to remove accumulated AGEs.
  • Reduces AGE Receptors (RAGE) to lower inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin.
  • Boosts Skin Health by improving elasticity and hydration while reducing wrinkles.

Clinical Results and Efficacy

In clinical studies, ICP De-AGE I reduced AGE levels by 8.49% in two weeks and 13.36% in four weeks. This makes it one of the first cosmetic ingredients with data supporting the actual reversal of glycation damage. Additionally, ex vivo tests showed its ability to lower RAGE expression, which helps mitigate inflammatory responses in the skin.

Who Can Benefit from Anti-Glycation Skincare?

If you are concerned about premature aging, dullness, or loss of skin firmness, incorporating an anti-glycation skincare routine may be beneficial. This is especially important for those who consume high amounts of sugar or have metabolic concerns that contribute to accelerated glycation.

The Future of Sugar-Proof Skincare

The skincare industry is continuously evolving to address glycation. With the rise of longevity-focused beauty trends, ingredients like ICP De-AGE I are paving the way for more effective anti-aging solutions. As research progresses, new innovations, including potential exosome-based treatments, could further enhance our ability to protect and repair glycation-damaged skin.

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Dr. Jane Yoo Board-Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon
Jane Yoo, MD, MPP, is a Korean American board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon based in Midtown Manhattan. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the founder of Jane Yoo MD, PLLC and the Clinical Research Center of New York. Dr. Yoo holds an undergraduate degree from MIT and a Masters of Public Policy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. She completed her Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship at Yale. Her clinical and research focus spans aesthetic clinical trials including injectables and laser technology, skincare formulation and sunscreen science, K-Beauty and skin of color, ultrasound guided filler dissolution, artificial intelligence and beauty tech. Dr. Yoo's research is indexed under ORCID 0000-0002-7112-8963.