Spa+Clinic Team AGE Smart is an innovative, scientifically-advanced system of products specifically designed to prevent and repair internal and external damage to ageing skin.
AGE Smart was developed by Dermalogica to address the underlying factors that lead to signs of premature ageing in the skin including wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, dehydration, hyperpigmentation, and loss of elasticity and tone to the skin by addressing the source of these changes in the skin.
Revolutionary Technology
The signs of ageing can be primarily attributed to exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Very simply, three biochemical reactions occur in the skin that triggers the structural changes that we associate with ageing. Dermalogica is addressing these transformations in the following ways:
1. ROS (Formation of Reactive Oxygen Species, commonly referred to as Free Radicals)
‘ Biochemical Reaction: When UV radiation attacks the body, free radical molecules are born. In order to stabilise themselves, the free radicals steal from the skin creating more free radicals. As they multiple, they attack any structure they can, continually disrupting the structural integrity of the skin. Lipids that make up the membranes of our cells are extremely vulnerable to this activity.
‘ Damageing Results: Free radicals directly cause lipid peroxidation and damaged membranes, which leads to inflammation
(i.e. leaky capillaries or spider veins), hyperpigmentation, disease and cell death. Free radicals also lead to formation of MMPs in the skin. (See #2)
‘ Solutions: AGE Smart uses the following complexes to combat ageing due to the generation of ROS:
– Combination of antioxidants (such as White Tea, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E) scavenges the free radicals.
– Glucosamine, Lactic Acid, and Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate fight hyperpigmentation.
– Bioflavonoids in White Tea and Liquorice treat broken capillaries.
2. MMPs (Activation of Matrix Metalloproteinases)
‘ Biochemical Reaction: When skin is exposed to UV radiation, it triggers the formation of the MMPs (enzymes) in the skin, which break down collagen and elastin (the two key structural proteins that make up our dermis) and Hyaluronic Acid (the main hydrating substance in our skin).
‘ Damaging Results: As we age, the skin’s ability to replenish collagen and elastin naturally slows, so ultimately we end up with a net loss of structural proteins and skin loses strength and tone. Likewise, our ability to replenish Hyaluronic Acid diminishes, which leads to dehydration.
‘ Solutions: AGE Smart uses the following complexes to slow the formation of MMPs and to stimulate Hyaluronic Acid formation:
– Soy, peptides and polyphenols (from White Tea) inhibit MMPs and stimulate collagen.
– Peptides, Vitamin C and Yeast Extract are used to stimulate formation of collagen and Hyaluronic Acid in the dermis.
3. AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products)
‘ Biochemical Reaction: Sugar molecules in our body react with proteins such as collagen to produce AGEs. AGEs cause collagen to cross-link, which makes the proteins stiff and less elastic. Since our body does not have a means to destroy AGEs, the cross-linking of collagen causes dramatic ageing in the skin. During the formation of AGEs, additional ROS (free radicals) are formed at an alarming rate, which also contributes to the ageing process.
‘ Damageing Results: The byproducts of AGE formation lead to inflammation, disease, premature ageing and even cell death.
‘ Solutions: The AGE Smart system employs a unique and specific peptide (LYS/ARG Polypeptide) with Glucosamine and Soy Isoflavonoids to trap excess sugar molecules, preventing formation of AGEs in the skin. In the process, the generation of ROS associated with AGE formation is also stifled.
About Dermalogica
Dermalogica, the skin care system researched and developed by The International Dermal Institute (IDI), is a leader in today’s skin care industry. In 1986 in response to IDI’s curriculum and dissatisfaction with brands available on the market, Jane Wurwand sought to create a treatment-based product line free from the irritating ingredients known to cause allergic reactions commonly found in mainstream brands, such as lanolin, S.D. alcohol, artificial colours, artificial fragrances, and mineral oil. Further, Dermalogica products offer consumers and professional’s products that address skin’s every need. Professional skin treatments incorporate Face Mapping skin analysis, an examination of 14 zones on the face that allow the skin therapist to provide a customised zone-by-zone prescription. Today Dermalogica enjoys a cult-like following among celebrities and Hollywood make-up artists as well as thousands of skin therapists worldwide.
With all Dermalogica products, professional recommendation is advised. Dermalogica products and treatment services are available at professional skin treatment centres and spas with skin therapists who have completed work at The International Dermal Institute.
dermalogica.com.au, 1800 659 118
