Sugar has several toxic effects on the body—particularly, the skin. Here are 4 reasons why sugar and your skin are not friends.  

1. Sugar breaks down collagen

As we know, collagen is the substance we rely on to keep skin youthful and firm. A process called Glycation occurs when excess sugar molecules attach to collagen and elastin proteins, causing them to become brittle and break - resulting in the loss of the skin’s elasticity. Once the process of glycation has occurred, the new sugar proteins are called Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). Biologique Recherche’s Serum A Glyca was formulated to keep elastin and collagen fibers intact. 

2. Sugar triggers insulin production

Excess amounts of insulin can lead to increased oil production, inflammation of the skin, and breakouts. When you ingest sugar, insulin levels spike. Insulin makes androgen hormones more active, makes cells grow faster, and boosts sebum production. It can also lead to irritation such as inflammation and puffiness. 111 Skin’s 3 Phase Anti Blemish Booster is formulated with potent ingredients that gently exfoliate, calm angry skin, and purify and control excess oil production. 

3. Sugar weakens the immune system

25% of your body’s immune system is contained within the skin. Skin is the largest organ in the body and has a vital function in acting as an immune gatekeeper, keeping external aggressors from getting in. When our defenses are down, our bodies find it more difficult to fight off infection. And while we normally associate this with getting a cold, a weakened immune system can also mean your skin is less prepared to fight bacteria on its surface.  

4. Sugar dehydrates your skin

Sugar literally takes moisture away from the skin (as well as other organs). And when your skin is dry, it looks tired, dull and lackluster – it can look more aged. The skin is an early-warning system for what’s going on inside your body – it can act as a messenger for other organs who find it harder to get your attention. Biologique Recherche’s Crème Masque Vernix hydrates, repairs and protects the skin while reducing transepidermal water loss. 

Sugar cravings are typically linked to mineral deficiencies, which is why it is important to eat whole foods that provide an assortment of vitamins and minerals to help curve those cravings. Try to minimize the amount of processed sugar that you eat and replace it with vegetables, fruits, green juices, etc.  

If you want something sweet, reach for berries or citrus which are lower in sugar, or dark chocolate which is high in antioxidants.