Skin Care
How we look and feel is very dependent upon the health of our skin. Most skincare products are moisturisers or alpha/glycolic acids. Collagen injections are now very common as well. Unfortunately none of these deal with the underlying cause of ageing skin, which is our metabolism becoming more catabolic (see Metabolism). As we age, we become increasingly dehydrated which is reflected in loss of moisture in the skin. This dehydration is secondary to loss of muscle, increase in fat and consumption of dehydrating beverages like alcohol and coffee. Adequate hydration of the skin is crucial to its appearance, repair and protection.
Moisturisers work by forming an occlusive barrier preventing further evaporation of water from skin. However, the real key to healthy skin is restoring the natural moisturising barrier of the skin which retains water and protects us from the outside world. After the age of 30, this natural protective layer begins to diminish. A catabolic metabolism also starts to break down collagen in the skin. Collagen is produced in the skin by cells called fibroblasts. Collagen keeps skin healthy, thick and smooth. As we age, fibroblasts produce less collagen.
So how can we restore skin's natural health? The following 7 steps are critical:
- Research has shown that taking DHEA, for women in particular, results in significant improvements in the moisture, thickness, oil production and appearance of the skin. Declining levels of DHEA appears to be related to the appearance of wrinkles and scan lines.
- Increase intake of essential fatty acids from vegetables, grains, nuts, beans and fish. Essential fatty acids are crucial for skin health.
- Two substances which have been shown to increase collagen production by fibroblasts are aloe vera and DHEA.
- Reduce unprotected sun exposure. Excessive sun exposure produces free radicals in the skin. Maximising glutathione production helps counteract the free radicals.
- Consume adequate amounts of alkaline water.
- Make sure you don't have hypothyroidism.
- Follow the health principles outlined on this website to restore anabolic metabolism.









