How Sugar Speeds Up Skin Ageing
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8 February 2026
Sugar doesn't just affect your waistline, it quietly shows up on your face too
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When you consume too much sugar, it binds to proteins like collagen and elastin in a process called glycation
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This forms harmful compounds known as AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products), which make skin stiff, less elastic, and prone to wrinkles
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Collagen keeps skin firm and plump. Sugar weakens collagen fibers, causing them to break and sag, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of bounce
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High sugar intake spikes inflammation in the body. On the skin, this shows up as redness, uneven tone, puffiness, and flare-ups of acne or eczema
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Sugar increases free radical damage, which speeds up cellular ageing. The result? Tired-looking skin, pigmentation, and slower repair
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Sugary foods raise insulin levels, which boosts oil production and clogs pores, making breakouts more frequent and stubborn
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To slow sugar-related ageing, cut back on refined sugar and sugary drinks
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Choose low-glycaemic foods (whole grains, fruits, veggies)
Load up on antioxidants (vitamin C, E, green tea)
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