Human body goes through not one, but two major aging processes in its cells and biochemistry; first at 44, then at around 60 years old

It can come as quite a shock to look in the mirror and realize we don’t look quite as young as we used to. Whether you’re in your early 30s or your late 60s, seeing wrinkles, sagging, or discoloration in our skin is a strange and sometimes unwelcome change to have to adapt to, especially if they come earlier than expected. In 2024, researchers at Stanford’s School of Medicine discovered that the human body goes through not one, but two major aging processes in its cells and biochemistry; first at 44, then at around 60 years old. The major transformations that take place in our forties are wide-ranging, affecting not just our insides but our outsides too, manifesting physically in changes to our skin. Learning more about skin aging, and what to do to prevent it, will help us understand that aging gracefully is possible.
What is skin aging?
Skin aging comes in two different types: intrinsic, caused by internal changes, and extrinsic, caused by external damage. Intrinsic aging is genetically and hormonally dependent—by 25, all of us start to lose about 1% of the collagen in our dermis every year. Intrinsic aging typically looks like thin, dry skin, and the appearance of fine lines.
On the other hand, extrinsic aging is caused by external factors (for example, smoking and drinking alcohol), meaning that it is within our control to prevent. Wearing sunscreen is a common way of staving off extrinsic aging by protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Extrinsic aging manifests as deep wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and hyperpigmentation. It also tends to be much more immediately noticeable, as it most affects skin that is out in the open.
Anti-aging actives: retinoids, peptides, and proxylane
Using the proper measures in our skincare routine, we can limit the full extent of visible aging. Lucky for us, there are many anti-aging actives used commonly in skincare. One of these is retinoids, a chemical group that includes well-known molecules like retinol, tretinoin, and adapalene. Retinoids are a vitamin A derivative and is available both in commercial skincare and by medical prescription, depending on the potency. Topical retinoids are highly effective in reducing photoaging and wrinkle formation by working inside skin cells to generate collagen production. Retinoids do have some downsides, though—light instability means that its use is limited to nighttime only, and applying it to sensitive skin can lead to prolonged irritation. As such, retinoid usage is not recommended for all skin types.
Another well-known anti-aging active is peptides, which are comprised of short chains of amino acids, small enough to penetrate the skin barrier. These signal to your skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, keeping the skin plump and smooth, as well as easing inflammation and acne. Peptides are often used in serum or cream form. Some types of peptides are said to mimic the effects of Botox, while being less invasive. The downsides of peptides include the high cost, and it can also take some time before effects are noticeable.
Less well-known, but just as (if not even more) effective, for anti-aging is proxylane. Derived from xylose, a natural sugar from beech trees, proxylane was first synthesized using green chemistry by Loreal in 2001. Unlike retinoids and peptides, which stimulate collagen production directly, proxylane works in skin cells to produce more GAGs (glycosaminoglycans), which support structural proteins like collagen and elastin. This strengthens the dermal-epidermal junction under the skin and overall improves skin cohesion. By boosting GAG production, proxylane ensures that the skin stays moisturized and maintains elasticity. Not only is proxylane a strong anti-aging active, it also ensures proper hydration, repairs the skin barrier, and strengthens resistance to mechanical stress. Proxylane is also very suitable for sensitive skin as it reduces inflammation.
So where can we find this product with proxylane? Well, X’Factor’s Advanced 30% Proxylane Face Cream is packed with a high concentration of proxylane in order to leave your skin looking more hydrated, firm, and with less fine lines. Infused with antioxidant vitamin E, this cream is perfect for those looking for rejuvenated and youthful-looking skin, without any of the drawbacks of retinoids or peptides. Get your X’Factor here to be the perfect companion in your journey to age gracefully.
References:
Shen, X., Wang, C., Zhou, X. et al. Nonlinear dynamics of multi-omics profiles during human aging. Nat Aging 4, 1619–1634 (2024).
Reilly DM, Lozano J. Skin collagen through the lifestages: importance for skin health and beauty. Plast Aesthet Res. 2021;8:2.
Milosheska D, Roškar R. Use of Retinoids in Topical Antiaging Treatments: A Focused Review of Clinical Evidence for Conventional and Nanoformulations. Adv Ther. 2022 Dec;39(12):5351-5375.
Vassal-Stermann E, Duranton A, Black AF, Azadiguian G, Demaude J, Lortat-Jacob H, Breton L, Vivès RR. A New C-Xyloside induces modifications of GAG expression, structure and functional properties. PLoS One. 2012
Author: Oceania Chee
Proofread by: Pamela KB Quah, RPh.