How sugar ages your skin: the process of glycation

What is glycation? Glycation is a reaction that occurs in the body where sugar molecules, such as glucose or fructose, bond with protein molecules to form a new, differently-shaped compound. These new substances are known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and are responsible for many of the negative effects of glycation [1].

Collagen, elastin and skin structure - Glycation's impact on the skin is multi-fold, and the process contributes to numerous signs of skin ageing. It changes structural elements in the skin, including damaging collagen and elastin.