First anti-aging serum to combat both oxidation and glycation launched

Oxidation and glycation have been identified by dermatologists as the two major contributors to the aging process, say skincare brand, La Roche-Posay, who developed the Derma Aox serum.

Glycation is the process by which sugar molecules naturally present in the skin adhere to collagen and elastin fibers. The sugar molecules create rigid bridges between fibers, which stiffens the internal structure of the skin. As a result, skin loses suppleness and wrinkles begin to appear, the company explained.

Oxidation refers to a chain reaction triggered in response to free radical damage from external aggressors such as the sun, which can harm cell DNA. Consequently, cell renewal may slow down, resulting in a loss of radiance and vitality in the skin, according to La Roche-Posay.

The serum, which was developed in response to continuing consumer demand for an effective skincare product that both prevents and reduces signs of aging, is claimed to uniquely offer a solution to both causes of aging through a synergistic combination of three ingredients.

Vitamin C and Pycnogenol, two ingredients selected for their anti-oxidant properties, help to neutralize free radicals and protect skin cells from damage.

Pycnogenol is a maritime pine extract with an oxidant action 20 times greater than that of Vitamin C and 50 times greater than Vitamin E, according to a 1999 study published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

The third ingredient, Carnosine, is a molecule stemming from diabetes research which was shown to inhibit the glycation process by 33 per cent in in vitro ​tests.

It acts like a magnet by attracting sugar molecules to itself instead of to collagen fibers, helping to prevent the skin's matrix from stiffening and thus maintaining skin's suppleness.

Derma Aox will be available to purchase online and at selected locations across the United States from November.