Aging Skin

Contents
Aging Skin
1. Chronological aging
2. Photo-aging
How Wrinkles Develop
Collagen
Fibroblast
Efforts To Stimulate Collagen Production
1. Human Growth Hormone
2. Oral and Topical Secretagogues
Efforts to Reduce Free Radical Damage through Antioxidants
A. Topical Application of Anti-oxidants and Herbs
B. Oral Intake of Antioxidants to Rebuild the Cell from Within
Detoxification to Enhance Skin Cell Health
What Else Can You Do To Restore Youthful Skin?
Summary

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Aging Skin

The aging of our skin can be divided into two broad processes:
Chronological Aging and Photo-Aging. 

1. Chronological aging represents the structural, functional, and metabolic changes in the skin that parallel the aging and degenerative changes in other body organs. Symptoms of chronological aging include: 

Dry and Thin Skin. While young skin renews itself every three to four weeks, older skin takes four to six weeks to renew itself. The top layers lose more moisture due to the aging process, and older skin has a dryer and more dehydrated appearance.

Fine Wrinkles. Diminished production of collagen leads to fine wrinkles initially observed around the eyes (commonly known as "crow's feet"), forehead, and other sun-exposed areas. More pronounced effects include furrows at the site of facial expression lines and sagging folds over the eyelids, neck, jaw, and arms. 

Abnormal Blood Vessels. Within the many small, delicate blood vessels supplying nutrients to the skin, abnormalities develop. This is particularly conspicuous over the nose and cheeks.

Age Spots These are pigmentations that surfaced as a result of a decrease in the number and function of pigment cells in sun-exposed areas.

Benign and malignant skin tumors due to the deterioration of the skin's immune system. 

Successful restoration of youthful skin from this perspective must address a variety of key issues including: collagen replacement, strengthening the vascular walls of small blood vessels that supply the skin, increasing vascular supply for oxygenation and detoxification purposes, increasing immunity to reduce cancer risks, and reducing oxidative damage to the skin. 

2. Photo-aging is a separate process and largely involves damage to the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. While genetics play a significant role, the amount of wrinkles present is highly dependent on the amount of sun exposure. The lines in a "lived-in face," especially for those who spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, is a consequence of oxidative damage due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) sunlight - both UVA (responsible for tanning, wrinkling, and melanoma) and UVB (responsible for sunburn and basal and squamous cell carcinoma). UV light may further damage skin by increasing the production of proteolytic enzymes that break down collagen, the connective tissue located beneath the dermis.

Successful retardation of photo-aging can be achieved by wearing a sunscreen of SPF of 15 or more, and by avoiding direct and indirect exposure to the sun for extended periods of time. 


How Wrinkles Develop

The skin is made up of multiple layers of cells that are constantly going through self shedding and regeneration once every 30 days or so in repeated cycles. The layers can be broadly divided into two sections - the top epidermis and the underlying dermis. 

Histological studies of the skin show that a wrinkle is formed following a series of major cellular changes:

During the sub-clinical phase of aging (from age 35-45), there is a gradual and progressive slowing of cellular turnover and regeneration. This results in the skin getting thinner. As a result, the normally undulating ridge-like dermal-epidermal interface (DEI) becomes flatter. This flatness reduces the surface area of nutritional exchange between the underlying dermis on the bottom and the epidermis on top. 

Reduced nutrition to the epidermis from aging is one factor that causes cellular exhaustion and weakness. Without proper nutrition to the epidermis, cellular metabolism of the epidermal cell is slowed. Furthermore, the transportation of certain unwanted byproducts of cellular metabolism such as free radical is reduced. The accumulation of such free radicals within the cell can lead to undesirable mutational damages in the cell and ultimately cancer. 

The adhesion between in the DEI is normally supplied by collagen IV (a multi-sheet structure or basal layer) and collagen VII (anchored to the sheets structure). The progressive loss of nutrients to this area slows the circulation of the messengers that serve to promote the neo-synthesis process of such collagen. A vicious cycle is set up. Without an optimal amount of collagen, the skin sags even more, propagating the dearth of nutrients. 

Paradoxically, matured aging skin contains more elastin, which the body uses to fill in the empty space left by the deficiency of collagen. Such elastin, unfortunately, is fragmented, calcified, and contains excessive lipids. 

In addition to the loss of skin thickness due to lack of collagen support, the aging skin is more loose and lacks elasticity. These two properties are hallmarks of wrinkles. 

This process of aging and appearance of wrinkles is accelerated during the clinical phase of aging (age 45 and higher). By age 50, very few women can escape wrinkles. The difference only lies in the degree of the blemish. 

A wrinkle, very simply, is caused by the reduction of collagen. 


Collagen

Collagen is a major body protein. There are 19 forms of collagen, and it accounts for almost 20% of the total protein in our body. In addition to its critical role in forming support structure of the skin, it is also the main constituent of the extra-cellular matrix. 

Collagen is characterized by its high proline content, which constitutes about one third of the amino acids. Its triple helix, rope-like structure contains protein organized in bundles that are anchored to each together at right angles and held in place by inter-fiber cross linkages. The most abundant collagen is Type I Collagen. 

The spatial arrangement of the collagen network also depends on the presence of supporting macromolecules known as proteoglycans and glycoaminoglycans (GAGs) . 

Collagen is a much better support structure than GAGs. GAGs are a water-saturated gel in which water soluble molecules, hormones, peptides, and ions circulate. During the aging process, the diminished amount of collagen is gradually replaced by the weaker GAGs. This reduction in the quantity of collagen and replacement with alternative but weaker macromolecules results in skin that is less thin and less elastic. With age, this gel, due to its weak support structure, tends to sag, and cellular metabolism and mitosis is compromised. Furthermore, if water intake is insufficient, the links in the collagen network, like those of a net cast into the sea, collapse as the net is only "kept open" in the presence of water and collapses upon itself in a dehydrated environment.


Fibroblast 

Fibroblasts are mesanchymatous cells within the dermatological meshwork. They are the basic building blocks involved in numerous mechanisms, including fibrogenesis, tissue contraction, and tissue skeleton building. They also have a role in epithelial differentiation, leading to collagen formation. After tissue damage has occurred, whether it be through acute forces such as trauma, or chronic forces such as aging, stress, and oxidative damage, the fibroblasts possess an unique ability to change their phenotype and become myofibroblasts, thereby contributing actively to the repair process. In the case of wound injury, it would form granulation tissue to enhance wound contraction and synthesis of macromolecules in connective tissue such as GAGs. 

Researchers have observed for years that fibroblasts in aged tissue do not produce as much collagen. However, after they have been isolated from their tissue and exposed to endogenous stimulating factors such as TGFb, they once again produce significant amounts of collagen, especially Type I Collagen (the predominant collagen in reconstructed healthy skin) based on a good DEI (where collagens IV and VII are abundant).


Efforts To Stimulate Collagen Production

Successful stimulation of fibroblast to produce more collagen and GAGs endogenously will in effect rejuvenate aging skin. Wrinkles will disappear and skin thickness will increase. There is currently much research in this area of skin care.

Currently, two approaches have been clinically proven to be successful: 

1. Stimulate the central hormonal system to increase Growth Hormone secretion. Growth hormone is the master hormone that will in turn promote fibroblasts to produce more collagen throughout the body. 

2. Stimulate selected parts of the body, such as the face or neck, to produce more collagen through exposing the area topically to certain nutrients called Secretagogues . 

Let us take at look at these two approaches more closely. 


1. Growth Hormone (hGH)

Human growth hormone (hGH) is a small protein molecule, which contains 191 amino acids in a single polypeptide chain. It is the most common hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. For some reason unknown, the amount of growth hormone secreted starts to slow after peaking in the late teens. The measurable level of hGH in our body decreases 14 percent every ten years into old age after peaking. This reduced level of secretion occurs over a period of time, with concurrent signs of aging appearing. Daily secretion from the pituitary gland diminishes with age to the extent that a 60-year-old man secretes only 25 percent of the hGH secreted by a 20 year old adult. 

A landmark study conducted by the late Dr. Rudman and published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine showed that the effects of six months of human growth hormone injection on lean body mass, skin thickness, and adipose-tissue mass were equivalent to 10 to 20 years of reversed aging. Specifically, skin thickness, as measured from 4 different sites, increased by 7.1% during this period on subjects in the study. 

Since that study, many people have undergone growth hormone injections as a way to regain their youthfulness. Thicker skin is just one of many benefits. Growth hormone injections were approved by the FDA in the mid 1990s for treatment of adult growth hormone deficiency syndrome. Growth hormone is a drug requiring close supervision by a qualified physician. As with most drugs, side effects can and do occur with growth hormone injections, including fluid retention and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Many have tried to apply this hormone topically. Human growth hormone, like collagen, is too large a molecule to be absorbed by direct application onto the skin. It is therefore not suitable for dermatological use. 


2. Oral and Topical Secretagogues

A secretagogue (pronounced se-cre'-ta-gog) is a natural amino acid chain (called a peptide) that acts to promote the production and or release of the target chemical in question, whether it is a hormone or an enzyme. The goal for a growth hormone secretagogue, for example, is to encourage the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. While direct hGH injection causes the body to act as if the pituitary has released growth hormone, a secretagogue actually causes the release of it. The ultimate result is similar. However, secretagogues are generally less potent and sold over the counter as nutritional supplements rather than as a drug. As far as hGH is concerned, numerous nutrients can acts as secretagogues, including amino acids such as glutamine, lysine, and arginine. Specialized short chain peptides also act as secretagogues to enhance growth hormone release from the pituitary gland, and next to injecting hGH, this is perhaps the best alternative. Having the right delivery system is critical, as peptide secretagogues are easy denatured when comes into contact with gastric juice. Oral intake of such secretagogues will lead to enhanced growth hormone levels, which in turn will lead to more collagen synthesis. With secretagogues, injection of human growth hormone can therefore be avoided.

Another important secretagogue for youthful skin is called fibroblast secretagogue. This secretagogue contains Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) that is designed to help the body manufacture fibroblast necessary for healthy and youthful skin. FGF is, therefore, a group of GFs that act on the fibroblast within the body. Fibroblast are basic building blocks of fibrous tissue, including the brain, nervous system, eye, blood vessels, heart, stomach, and most importantly, skin. There are at least 19 distinct members of the FGF family, which interact with at least 4 distinct types of cell-surface receptors. FGF is usually administered by subcutaneous injections simply because FGF is a small protein that can be easily denatured when exposed to heat or acid. Ingesting FGF, for example, will expose FGF to gastric acid, which quickly will denature it. This was resolved by binding FGF to non-toxic polymers to form a conjugated molecule. This is usually done through a series of chemical reactions. Substances commonly used for as polymers include polysaccharides or muco-adhesives. When the FGF is conjugated, the protein is more stable and protected from the digestive enzymes. Conjugation can furthermore program the FGF's release from its carrier to ensure that the desired action of the FGF on a specific site is maintained. For those who do not wish to pay the high cost of FGF injections, the oral effervescent form is the preferred route of delivery.

Secretagogues also come in the topical forms for the purpose of skin rejuvenation and collagen rebuilding. Topical Secretatogues (TS) are designed to stimulate collagen synthesis locally. A topical secretagogue (TS), when applied to the skin, acts locally to stimulate the growth of collagen and GAGs.

Most TS normally consist of a fragment chain of active amino acids called a peptide chain. Not all the amino acids in a long chain hormone such as hGH or Collagen is active. Normally, only a small part of the overall chain is responsible for the majority of its overall action. The key is to identify the distinct active portion of the peptide chain. Because of it small size, such active peptides can be topically applied and absorbed into the skin with relative ease once isolated.

Successful isolation of such peptide fragments has been carried out both in the research and clinical setting. They are produced by targeted cleaving of "precursor proteins," such as those of collagen, fibronectin, and elastin. They also have an important feedback role on their own neo-synthesis system and thus contribute to tissue replacement. Such peptides are selective natural messengers than can be applied to the skin and causes an immediate recognition by the cell to produce collagen. 

Several such short chain peptide secretagogues have been extensively researched. One of the most effective is a short peptide chain consisting of 5 key amino acids called a penta-peptide that is derived from a fragment of the C-terminal portion of collagen I. It has been studied in detail by Katayama et al.

Laboratory Research studies of this peptide have shown that the synthesis of collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin are enhanced when this peptide is added to cultured human fibroblast tissue. Peptide chains from other locations within the collagen molecule do not yield similar effects. This peptide also has a more marked impact on low-density cultures of fibroblasts, similar to that of aging skin, than on higher density, confluent culture like that of younger skin. 

Laboratory in vitro studies of this peptide showed that it is highly specific for interaction with fibroblasts and causes the increased stimulation of collagen synthesis by up to 320% as compared to the control group. It was also shown that at various concentrations, this peptide produces highly significant induction of the neo-synthesis of soluble collagen IV (important in the dermal-epidermal interface) by a factor of 2 to 4. At 2% concentration, GAG production was increased by 267% as well. 

Ex Vivo studies using skin biopsy samples showed that this peptide produced major stimulation of the synthesis of collagen, with a maximum response of 117% at the 4% concentration. This was higher than with Vitamin C or other topical secretagogues such TGFb.

In a clinical double blind study, a panel of 35 female volunteers between the ages of 34 and 72 (mean age: 58 years) was given a cream containing 3% of this peptide for 6 months. They were instructed to apply the cream two times a day. No other anti-wrinkle, restorative, restructuring, or regenerating cosmetic products were used. The volunteers had no history of allergy or skin disorders. 

After 6 months of treatment, imprints of the relief of the skin were obtained and the skin irregularities were analyzed by Image analysis. It was shown that a highly significant reduction in the deep and moderate wrinkles was obtained with those treated with this peptide as compared to the control group. The reduction in deep wrinkles increased with time. Specifically, surface area occupied by deep wrinkles was reduced by a mean of 68% over 6 months. Deep wrinkles are defined with a maximum depth of more than 200 mm. The surface are occupied by moderate wrinkles (defined as those of 150 to 200 mm in depth) was reduced by a mean of 51% over the same period. 

Subjects also showed significant improvements in the density of the furrows. Furrows are the deepest wrinkles. Vectorization by image analysis was used to assign a length to these furrows and calculate the sum per unit area, with 28% reduction after 2 months, 31% reduction after 4 months, and 47% reduction after 6 months. 

Roughness of the skin is also measured by image analysis. This provides a global approach to the concept of the smoothness of the surface by assigning to it a mean amplitude, which is the resultant of all the furrows and peaks. The results of the study showed a 10% reduction after 2 months and 16% after 6 months. 

Self evaluation by the volunteers were conducted after 2, 4, and 6 months with the following results at the end of 6 months:

• 83% reported reduced wrinkles and lines (versus 45% for placebo)
  
• 92% increase in moisturizing effect (compared to 76% for placebo)
  
• 80% increase in smoothing effect (compared to 68% for placebo)
  
• 76% increase in skin suppleness (compared to 60% for placebo)
  

• 68% reduction of deep wrinkle surface area
  
• 47% reduction of main furrows
  
• 51% reduction of moderate wrinkles
  
• 22% reduction of main wrinkle
  

The application of the proper topical peptide secretagogue has therefore shown to be effective in enhancing collagen and GAG production. Increased collagen and GAG production leads to thicker skin and diminishing wrinkles and fine lines. A good topical secretagogue should be considered a cornerstone of an overall anti-aging skin management system.

For the best skin rejuvenation effect, consider taking secretagogue in two forms - an oral effervescent secretagogue form (such as MD Gee-H ) to stimulate growth hormone secretion and fibroblast formation systemically, and a topical secretagogue (such as Dermatlift) containing special penta-peptide to stimulate collagen synthesis locally.


Efforts to Reduce Free Radical Damage through Antioxidants 

The mission of any successful anti-aging skin regimen must address, in addition to increased collagen synthesis, ways to limit the amount of oxidative damage caused by environmental pollutions and the sun's ultraviolet rays on our skin. 


A. Topical Application of Anti-oxidants and Herbs

The following are key ingredients with antioxidant properties that should be topically applied in conjunction with a good water-based moisturizer to nourish the skin from the outside in and to prevent oxidative damage. 

1. Alpha Lupaline

Used by the great Egyptian and Mayan civilizations, the extract of lupin, called lupaline, has been scientifically proven to be 10,000 more potent than the single use of Vitamin E, 5000 times more effective than Vitamin C, and 2 times more effective than Vitamin B. Lupaline helps to combat the signs of aging and reduces the damaging effects of free radical breakdown and environmental pollutions. This product is naturally derived from the synergetic combination of Lupin oil and the active fraction of wheat germ oil obtained by molecular distillation. 

2. Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)

In a normal cell, tiny organelles called mitochondria turn food molecules into energy. In the process, a free radical oxygen called superoxide is produced, which causes what is called oxidative stress damage. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme that revitalizes cells and reduces the rate of cell destruction. It neutralizes this most common, and possibly the most dangerous, free radical - superoxide. It converts the reactive oxygen species by converting superoxide radical into hydrogen peroxide, which is then changed into molecular oxygen and water.

SOD levels tend to decline with age, while free radical production increases. Its potential as an anti-aging treatment has been well documented. Compounds that mimic SOD have been shown to extend the lifespan of experimental worms by nearly 50 percent, according to researcher Simon Melov of the Buck Institute for Age Research in Novato, California. 

Biologist William Orr of Southern Methodist University reported in 1997 that genetic engineering of fruit flies live longer. Flies that normally live about 45 days lived about 75 days when their cells produced more of the same two natural enzymes, called superoxide dismutase and catalase. 

3. Rosehip Seed Oil (Rosa Mosqueta)

This is a traditional herbal oil that has been used for centuries for skin burns, cheoloids, and scars. It is extracted from the seeds that form in the hips of the wild rose of Chile - Rosa Affinis Rubiginosa, or commonly known in Chile as Rosa Mosqueta. It smoothes wrinkles by hydrating the skin and slows new signs of aging. Rose hip oil is extremely high in essential fatty acids such as Linoleic acid (45%), Linolenic acid (32%), Oleic acid (15%), and Palmitic acid. Fatty acids are essential building blocks of cellular membranes to allow efficient transportation of nutrients from the extracellular space into the intracellular environment where metabolism takes place. Besides non-saturated fatty acids, the presence of carotenoids, flavonoids, Vitamin C, and, trans-retinoic acid has also been detected and these could be responsible for some of the pharmacological and therapeutic properties of Rosehip Seed Oil.

Extensive studies have shown rosehip seed oil to have a positive effect on scars, stretch marks, sunburn, and aging skin. Because of its high fatty acid content, Rosehip seed oil penetrates the skins upper layers very quickly, making it a good moisturizer.

4. Squalane

Squalane is an excellent moisturizer and lubricant. It is highly compatible with skin lipids because human sebum is comprised of 25% squalane. Squalene is obtained by hydrogenation of natural oils. However, most people do not synthesize enough of this vital oil, which can lead to rough, dry aging skin.

Since squalane is a natural component of the human sebum, it acts as a mild liquid vehicle able to impart suppleness and smoothness to the skin without any unpleasant greasy feel. It readily forms emulsions with the human sebum. 

Squalane assists in preventing water loss from the skin's surface. This in turn causes hydration of the skin and increases the percutaneous absorption of incorporated active substances. It helps to restore suppleness and smoothness to skin dried by frequent use of detergents or by sunburn.

5. Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives)

Retinoic acid precursors and derivatives have been used effectively since the 1980s to stimulate the increased turnover of aging keratinocytes. Retenoids repair the skin's connective tissue as well as reduce pigmentation, increase blood supply, and normalize skin turnover. 
The FDA approved topical retinoc acid in 1995 for improving the appearance of photo-aged skin. Retinol reduces fine facial wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation (age spots), and surface roughness associated with chronic sun exposure. The drug sloughs off dead skin, regenerates collagen, and allows cells in the top layer of the skin, which are always being replaced, to mature more normally than untreated sun-damaged cells. 
There is evidence that retinol actually prevents sun damage. Researchers have found that even brief exposure to sunlight increases the activity of enzymes that break down the proteins collagen and elastin that provide structural support for the skin. Creams containing trans-retinoic-acid reduce the activation of these enzymes. 

Side effects of retinoic acid for topical application include temporary peeling, redness, and blistering, and a permanent increase in sun sensitivity. Since retinol is only minimally absorbed, there is no systemic toxicity. The use of high dose retinol is contraindicated in patients receiving photosensitizing drugs such as thiazides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, and sulfonamides. 

The use of retinoic acid is a mainstay of treatment and is the ingredient of choice in many beauty creams, and for good reasons. The dosage should be monitored closely to avoid over-treatment and side effects.

6. Dipalmitoyl hydroproline

This is an amino acid that stimulates the contraction of collagen fiber. It also supplies the nutrients to protect the remaining elastin and fibroblasts against free radical attacks.

7. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba has a long, colorful history. It is the oldest tree on Earth, with fossils showing it to be more than 200 million years old. In fact, it is that last survivor of an ancient family of trees.

Research into ginkgo's effects on humans shows that it speeds up the flow of blood and oxygen through the body and brain. It increases the manufacture of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is sometimes described as the "universal energy molecule." Additionally, ginkgo keeps the brain arteries from clogging up with blood platelets by keeping the arteries flexible so that the platelets don't collect together on the artery walls. It helps the nerve cells transmit signals from one to another. Ginkgo is a vasodilator, which means it dilates the blood vessels, especially tiny capillaries. This increased circulation helps protect the nerves from the damage that can result from a reduced supply of blood and oxygen, as often occurs with age. Promotion of circulation to the skin enhances nutrients delivered to the cells. 

8. Ginseng

Used for thousands of years in Asia as a longevity tonic, ginseng's dermatological properties include its use as remedy for boils, bruises, sores, and swelling. Ginseng is a root. The active components are called ginsenosides and are reported to be responsible for the revitalization and reactivation of epidermal cells. Important constituents include saponins, mucin, and vitamin B.

9. Vitamin C (to prevent oxidative damage)

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that is a potent anti-oxidant. Vitamin C serum - a form of vitamin that can be absorbed by skin cells - is an important ingredient. Topical vitamin C is capable of controlling inflammatory responses associated with UV exposure, which is seen as the cause of damage that eventually leads to wrinkling and skin cancer. It also acts as an antioxidant and promotes collagen synthesis. 

10. Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

A natural form of Vitamin E, tocopherol acts as an antioxidant to reduce free radical damage released from pollution, stress, and modern day diet. It is very effective in combating the lipid peroxidation effect of sun damage and environmental pollution. Vitamin E, together with green tea and chamomile, are also popular soothing ingredients used to assuage the effects of acid-induced exfoliation. 

11. Alpha Hydroxyl Acid (AHA)

See below for a more detailed description.


B. Oral Intake of Antioxidants to Rebuild the Cell from Within

In addition to topically applied anti-oxidants listed above, oral intake of the optimum level of antioxidants will fortify the skin cells internally.

The skin is constantly fighting a battle between pro-oxidants, such as free radicals, and antioxidants, which the body makes. Unfortunately, the amount of antioxidants your body produces to fight these pro-oxidants is generally insufficient. A diet rich in antioxidants will help. However, fortifying the body with oral supplementation will further reduce the aging effects of oxidants commonly found in our environment, which include the sun's rays, pollution, poor diet, and stress. 

The optimal level of oral intake of basic anti-aging vitamins should include:

• 500 - 3,000 mg of Vitamin C
  
• 300 - 800 IU of Vitamin E
  
• 5,000 - 15,000 IU of Beta Carotene (which is converted to Vitamin A in the body)
  
• 100 - 200 mcg of Selenium
  
• 500 - 1,000 mg of Magnesium
  
• 500 mg of Calcium
  
• 100 - 200 mcg of Chromium
  

Attention Because of tremendous individual variation, the use of nutritionals should therefore be personalized for your body. One person’s nutrient can be another person’s toxin. If you have a specific health concern and wish my personalized nutritional recommendation, write to me by clicking here.

Detoxification to Enhance Skin Cell Health

The skin is one of the key ways our body eliminates waste (the lungs and kidneys are the other ways) after being processed by the liver. Excessive toxins will accumulate in our body, some of which are deposited on the skin in the form of pigments, fats, and other pathologies.

In addition to the topical application and oral intake of optimum amount of antioxidants mentioned above, it is important to rid the body of toxins built up through the years. You will notice that people whose body is detoxified generally have healthier and younger looking skin. This is no accident.

Detoxification is therefore a key element in restoring youthful skin. Some natural herbs and nutritional factors specific for detoxification include: 

1. Silymarin. A special extract of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is known as silymarin. These compounds protect the liver from damage and enhance the detoxification process. 
   
   Silymarin prevents damage to the liver by acting as an antioxidant. It is much more effective than Vitamin E and Vitamin C. Numerous research studies have demonstrated its protective effect on the liver. Experimental liver damage in animals is produced by extremely toxic chemicals such as carbon tetrachloride, amanita toxin, galactosamine, and praseodymium nitrate. Silymarin has been shown to protect the liver against these toxins.
   
   
2. Herbal Teas. Accumulation of unwanted food particles in our digestive system is a major source of toxins. Promotion of colon cleansing through loosening the bowl movement on a regular basis is an important component of any detoxification program. This can be accomplished through the use of teas, powders, extracts, or enemas. Herbal teas can be made and consumed readily throughout the day, as they are mild and gentle. As there are different styles in preparing teas, experimentation may be done until finding a suitable tea. Cleansing powders are usually encapsulated to ensure easier swallowing. They are best taken with meals and digestive enzymes. On the other hand, herbal extracts may be used when certain herbs are needed. However, herbal extracts with alcohol content should be avoided. 
   
   
3. Digestive Enzymes. Intestinal motility decreases with age. Healthy digestion is a prerequisite to healthy skin for the simple reason that undigested food can be turned into toxins, which eventually will find its way in part into the skin. Taking the proper amount of digestive enzymes to promote faster than normal digestion and reduced transit time in the gastro-intestinal tract will prevent stasis of toxins.
   

What Else Can You Do To Restore Youthful Skin? 

1. Chemical Peel. There are a variety of natural or synthetic agents such as alpha-hydroxy fruit acids that can be used for chemical peels. This has been a popular procedure since the late 1980s. Chemical peels vary greatly from the popular "lunch time" peel that lasts only 20 minutes to in-hospital stay that last up to 10 days. One commonly used peeling agent is alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) - a group of exfoliants derived from fruit, sugar, and milk acids. While it has been used for decades by dermatologist, mass commercialization has only occured since 1992, with glycolic acid being the first one. AHA has a small molecular size and thus can penetrate the skin deeply. Glycolic acids can irritate the skin and cause significant irritation. Prolonged use of AHA has not been fully researched. Some studies are pointing that chronic use of AHA may actually accelerate skin aging. At up to 10 percent concentration and final formulation pH of greater than 3.5, AHA is generally considered safe for daily application for the medium term. In a clinical setting, glycolic acid of up to 50% is used for peeling. Often the acid is left on the face for a very short period of time (within a few minutes) as it can cause severe burning if not carefully monitored. 

2. Laser Resurfacing. In laser resurfacing, sometimes called "laser peel," a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. Lasers are named according to the source that creates the energy beam. 

All resurfacing treatments work essentially the same way. First, the outer layers of damaged skin are stripped away. Then, as new cells form during the healing process, a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface appears. Laser resurfacing is a new method being used by plastic surgeons to remove damaged skin. 

The procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes. However, it is also effective in treating facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. 

There are no standard measures for scar improvement or patient satisfaction, but the procedure is up to 90% effective and is more precise than dermabrasion, in which a rough, abrasive edge is used to remove scars, and chemical peels, in which chemicals remove layers of skin to remove scars.

Risks associated with laser resurfacing include: burns or other injuries from the heat of the laser energy, scarring, and obvious lightening or darkening of the treated skin. Also, laser resurfacing can activate herpes virus infections ("cold sores") and, in rare cases, other types of infection. Patients with olive skin, brown skin, or black skin may be at increased risk for pigmentation changes no matter what type of resurfacing method is recommended. Individuals who have taken Accutane in the past 12-18 months are prone to abnormal (keloid-like) scarring. In addition, individuals with active skin infections on the treatment area may not be appropriate candidates for this procedure.

3. Botox. Botulinum A Toxin (BoTox) is a medical protein derived from the C. Botuluinum bacteria under special laboratory conditions. When BoTox is injected into a muscle, it causes temporary (months) paralysis of that muscle. It has been safely used for many years in the treatment of eyelid spasms and eye muscle spasms (that can cause crossed eyes) and for the correction of facial muscle imbalance and neck muscle spasm.

Hyperactive facial muscle around the eyes and lower forehead may give a person an angry, tired, or displeased appearance - even when they are not experiencing that emotion. Inactivation of these small muscles reduces this undesirable effect and decreases the propensity to form wrinkles from these expressions. The cords or bands that protrude from the neck with the aging process may require surgery. However, certain patients can get significant improvement in these bands using BoTox therapy. 

Cosmetic uses of Botulinum A Toxin include:

• Glabella frown lines (wrinkles between the eyebrows) 
  
• Forehead creases - Horizontal Forehead Lines 
  
• "Crows Feet" 
  
• Platysmal Bands (thick cords or bands in the neck) 
  

The procedure requires physician's intervention and repeated injections. Periodic re-injections may be required to have sustained effect. 

4. Interstitial filling of collagen, silicon, or hyaluronic acid by injection into the skin. In selected cases, this should be considered. Great skill is needed, and the result may not be sustained, especially among those whose skin is undergoing very active biodegradation. One particular concern is the question of long term side-effects, especially as it relates to auto-immune diseases that may surface decades later due to the injection of such a "foreign body" into the skin.

The cost of such procedures are usually expensive. Topical application of collagen onto the skin has been tried for many years. While this method is convenient and has been heavily promoted, the fact remains that the collagen molecule itself is too large for it to penetrate the skin. Such regimens do not produce results and have largely been abandoned.


Summary

While you may not be born with perfect skin, you can certainly do your best to preserve what you have. Skin is the largest organ of the body. Young and healthy skin is filled with collagen and is well hydrated. It has not been subjected to free radical attacks from the environment.

The scientific approach to youthful skin therefore should incorporate the following 3 elements concurrently for maximum effectiveness:

1. Anti-aging oral and topical factors specifically designed to:
   
   
   • Promote synthesis of collagen and GAGs through the use of secretagogues such as growth hormone secretagogues and topical secretagogues in the form of peptides.
     
   • Reduce free radical damage through oral and topical antioxidants, herbs, and oils.
     
   • Promote faster cellular regeneration through the use of topical retinol. 
     
   
   
2. Detoxification of the body through proper cleansing, rebuilding, and maintaining a non toxic body. This can be accomplished by:
   
   
   • Regular cleansing of the gastro intestinal tract. This can be done with herbs and agents that promote faster bowl transit time. 
     
   • Promoting optimum digestive health through the use of digestive enzymes.
     
   • Fortifying the liver, which is major detoxification center of the body.
     
   • Taking optimum levels of nutritional supplementation consistently.
     
   • Participating in an anti-aging exercise program to facilitate the elimination of toxins through the skin by sweating.
     
   
   
3. Life-style adjustments including: 
   
   
   • Drinking ample amounts of water (at least 10 to 12 glasses of pure filtered water a day). The body is composed of 70% water. Well hydrated skin is healthy and young looking. 
     
   • Staying out of the sun and heat (taking only warm showers and staying away from prolonged sauna exposure), and using sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful rays of the sun.
     
   • Following an anti-aging modified Mediterranean Diet rich in fruits and green leafy vegetables that are full of natural antioxidants. 
     
     

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About The Author

Michael Lam, M.D., M.P.H., A.B.A.A.M. is a specialist in Preventive and Anti-Aging Medicine. He is currently the Director of Medical Education at the Academy of Anti-Aging Research, U.S.A. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon State University, and his Doctor of Medicine degree from  Loma Linda University School of Medicine, California. He also holds a Masters of Public Health degree and  is Board Certification in Anti-aging Medicine by the American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. Dr. Lam pioneered the formulation of the three clinical phases of aging as well as the concept of diagnosis and treatment of sub-clinical age related degenerative diseases to deter the aging process. Dr. Lam has been published extensively in this field. He is the author of The Five Proven Secrets to Longevity (available on-line). He also serves as editor of the Journal of Anti-Aging Research.

For More Information

For the latest anti-aging related health issues, visit Dr. Lam at www.LamMD.com. Feel free to email Dr. Lam at dr@LamMD.com if you have any questions.


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References

Katayama et al., 1993. A Pentapeptude from type I collagen promotes extra-cellular matrice production. J Biol Chem, 268 (14), p 9941.

Murray and Pizzorno.1998 Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Prima Publishing, Rocklin, Ca 95677.

Pierard et al., 1989 . The microanatomical basis of facial frown lines. Arch Dermatol, 125 (8), P 1090.

Tsuji et al, 1986. Light and electron microscopy studies on wrinkles in aged skin. Br. J Dermaology, 114 (3), P 329.

Zand , Spreen, and Lavalle. 1999 Smart Medicine for Healthier Living. Avery Publishing Group.

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