What Is the Role of Epigenetics in Skin Care?

It has long been assumed that human aging is set in stone. The genes you inherit determine the types of skin problems you’re going to have – whether it’s acne or uneven pigmentation. However, the study of epigenetics has revealed how habits can influence the behavior of your DNA, and in turn, change the fate of your skin. Is this the secret to a forever-glowing complexion? Keep reading to learn more about the potential benefits of altering the epigenetics of your skin and tips to do it.

Epigenetics is very much a real science. Biologists have been exploring the theory since the late 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 2000s that it became a prominent field in the scientific community, especially in the realms of health and wellness.

Almost all known health conditions have a genetic basis. Some are passed down through families, while others result from spontaneous mutations. But, as research has unveiled, DNA is only half of the equation. What you do with your body can have tremendous effects on your risk for diseases.

In recent years, multiple studies have shown that your lifestyle choices – the food you eat, how active you choose to be, the chemicals you’re exposed to, the level of stress you endure, and the people you connect with – can affect your gene expression. For example, eating well and engaging in regular exercise can “turn off” your heart attack and cancer genes, according to research.

All these findings are groundbreaking. But what makes the epigenetic shift theory even more fascinating is that it can be applied to other aspects of life, including skin care.

Identical twins are born with the same set of DNA, yet they start to look different as they mature. One may have more fine lines etched across their forehead. This variation wouldn’t be possible if genetics were the sole determinant of skin conditions.

Your skin has a specific genetic code, which instructs the skin cells when and how to do their daily tasks – renewing, repairing, producing collagen, and so on. As you age, stressors such as UV rays and pollution trigger “errors” in this code, leading to visible signs of aging, from wrinkles to melasma.

The good news is, these malfunctions aren’t permanent. Research indicates that adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help reset this code and re-activate any dormant skin cells. Generally speaking, epigenetics can shut down and reverse aging.

Experts are currently developing anti-aging solutions that can prevent negative epigenetic changes in the skin. It might be years before the next breakthrough, but there are simple ways you can be kind to your genes and, therefore, promote healthy skin aging.

Science is in favor of the Mediterranean diet, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The meal plan, which typically consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, has been proven to prevent the progression of psoriasis from mild to severe.

In case you need more convincing, a 2019 study reports that women who eat a healthy diet with plenty of greens and zero alcohol are more likely to have fewer wrinkles than those who don’t. So, trade your French fries for carrot sticks with hummus every once in a while.

According to the Genome Biology journal, prolonged sun exposure can set off epigenetic modifications in the skin, causing damage at the cellular level. This means skipping SPF can cause premature aging – including sagging skin, age spots, and uneven skin tone – and increase the risk of skin cancer.

One of the most effective strategies to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation is to diligently apply broad-spectrum sunscreen like POND'S UV Bright Sunscreen with SPF 50 PA++++ all over your skin every day, even when staying indoors. This sunscreen is unique because it has Gluta-Niacinamide to fade dark marks in three days.

If you have dry skin, use POND'S UV Hydrate Sunscreen with SPF 50 PA++++. The Hyaluron provides extra moisture and gives you that coveted glass-skin finish.

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but its impact on skin health goes beyond what meets the eye. A number of studies have claimed that stress can shorten telomeres, a.k.a. a component of chromosomes, which can accelerate the pace of aging. Additionally, lack of physical activity also contributes to this phenomenon.

Whenever your nerves are on high alert, you can either move your body or relax your muscles. Better yet, do both if you have the time. Take a short walk while listening to a podcast. Break out your silly dance moves. Hula hoop in the backyard. Read a book then doze off. Try anything to put your mind at ease. If nothing sticks, reach out to your loved ones or a professional therapist.

Your genes don’t hold all the cards, as epigenetics has established. Family history may predispose you to certain skin conditions, but you have some power to change the outcome. So, make wise choices!