Researchers are increasingly focusing on the impact of stress on skin health, with evidence suggesting that stress contributes to various skin issues, including wrinkles, dullness, redness, and uneven texture. Stressors can be environmental, such as extreme temperatures and air conditioning, or psychological, stemming from the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Fortunately, advancements in science may offer solutions to mitigate these effects.
Dr. Annie Black, Lancôme’s international scientific director, highlights a key finding: the identification of a molecule called NRF2, which acts as a master regulator of cellular repair. “NRF2 serves as a stress sensor and activates in response to both internal and external stressors,” Dr. Black explains. However, the functionality of NRF2 declines with age, reducing the skin’s ability to repair itself effectively over time.
To address this decline, Lancôme has introduced a new version of its popular Genifique serum, now called Genefique Ultimate. This formulation retains many of the beneficial components of its predecessor, including pre- and probiotics, hyaluronic acid, and liquorice extract, all designed to enhance skin hydration, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin’s microbiome.
Dr. Black emphasizes the daily threats to skin health, noting, “Your skin is attacked daily by these aggressors, which contribute to wrinkles.” She reports that Genifique helps restore the skin’s microbiome to a more youthful profile, a finding substantiated by recent studies correlating microbiome shifts with improved skin appearance, such as diminished fine lines and enhanced texture.
The latest formulation also incorporates beta glucan, which Dr. Black describes as instrumental in boosting NRF2 production. “Without proper skin repair, accumulated damage leads to premature aging,” she warns.
A daily application of the lightweight serum is shown to reduce redness, minimize fine lines, and enhance skin smoothness while making pores less visible. “We are gaining deeper insights into the molecular and cellular biology of aging,” Dr. Black states, adding that clinical trials sometimes reveal a quantifiable reduction in perceived age.
With the potential to visibly improve skin condition and resilience against stressors, Lancôme’s latest offerings present a promising avenue for those looking to maintain youthful skin. As Dr. Black concludes, “What we’re advocating is for individuals to actively repair daily damage, as constant aggressors lead to visible aging.” Thus, it seems we can afford to stress a little less about our skin’s health.
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