Aesthetic Trends & Technologies
March | April 2010
Wellness Department

By Paula Simpson, B.A.Sc. (Nutrition), R.N.C.P., Contributing Editor & Advisor

The aging process is one of the best examples of the effects of deteriorating homeostasis. Aging is accompanied by an impairment of the physiological systems including the homeostatic systems such as the immune system. The free radical theory of aging (one of the most widely accepted theories) proposes to explain aging according to which oxygen-derived free radicals cause age-related impairment through oxidative damage to biomolecules, with mitochondria being the main target of free radical attack. Since oxygen radicals are needed for many metabolic and physiological processes, a balance between radical production and their antioxidant-linked inactivation is required to preserve health.

The skin, being the largest organ in the body and barrier from the external environment, is very susceptible to damage produced by free radicals due to its constant contact with oxygen and other environmental stressors, such as UV exposure. This damage caused by free radicals impairs the ability of the cells to transport nutrients, eliminate wastes, and reproduce healthy skin cells, in turn causing an
accumulation of chemical events and by products that deteriorate and interfere with the normal functions of the skin. Over time, inflammation and the degradation of collagen and elastin reveal the signs of physical aging of the skin.

Chronic sun exposure, smoking, poor dietary intake, and lifestyle have been well documented as key accelerators in skin aging due to an imbalanced homeostasis. Clinical studies show that age-dependent changes of the immune system are linked to oxidative stress and that an adequate intake of dietary antioxidants may protect those systems (including skin) against…READ ON – Click Here to Download Article

About Ms. Simpson
Paula Simpson, B.A.Sc. (Nutrition), R.N.C.P. is the Executive Director of Isocell North America and holds a degree in Nutrition. She has over 15 years of experience in consulting, public relations, product formulation, and program development for the Nutraceutical and Medical Aesthetic Industry. Her role as a Scientific Evaluator and Regulatory Consultant for some of the top nutraceutical companies worldwide has solidified her reputation as a leader in research and development for innovative natural health products. As a Project Leader, Paula developed and guided an international weight loss program towards a successful launch in North America and Europe. As the Nutrition Director for a medical spa, she developed a weight management and longevity program that was the impetus for the company’s overall commercial success. Ms. Simpson can be contacted directly at paula.simpson@glisodinskin.com. Visit their website on the worldwide web: www.glisodinskin.com.