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Decoding Cellular Ageing: The Role of Telomeres in Skin Longevity
Interview with: Emilie Gombert, Senior Product Development and Rachel Davies, Senior Marketing Executive,
Oat Cosmetics UK
How does the ageing process start and what role do telomeres play in it?
Emilie Gombert: Understanding the complexity of ageing and the biological changes in the body throughout life is critical when discussing prevention. Ageing starts early in life as a gradual decline in the function of cells and organs. Environmental and lifestyle factors such as oxidative stress, poor diet and pollution can accelerate the ageing process. One of the key mechanisms associated with cellular ageing is the reduction in telomere length, which can lead to the failure of cell division and the onset of cellular senescence.
What are telomeres?
Emilie Gombert: Telomeres are short, repetitive DNA sequences located at the ends of each chromosome within the nucleus of every cell. They act as protective caps that prevent chromosomes from deteriorating or fusing with neighbouring chromosomes. As cells divide, telomeres naturally shorten and when they become too short, the chromosomes can no longer replicate, leading to cell death. This process plays a crucial role in skin ageing because the shortening of telomeres directly impacts cellular regeneration and vitality.
How does telomere shortening contribute to the skin ageing process?
Emilie Gombert: Telomere shortening is a hallmark of cellular ageing. It affects essential skin functions like collagen and elastin production and the activity of melanocytes. Young, healthy cells with longer telomeres can regenerate more effectively, contributing to firmer, more youthful skin. However, once telomeres become too short, cells enter a state of senescence or die, leading to visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity. While some skincare products aim to improve appearance by accelerating cell turnover, this can exacerbate the biological ageing process by further shortening telomeres.
What factors contribute to telomere damage and shortening?
Emilie Gombert: Telomeres are damaged and shortened by oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption. Psychological stress and exposure to environmental pollutants also contribute to telomere attrition. These factors accelerate cellular ageing and reduce overall skin health.
How is telomere technology being integrated into skincare products?
Rachel Davies: The focus is shifting from reactive treatments to proactive approaches, where consumers now demand scientifically backed skincare products that demonstrate efficacy at the cellular level. Telomere technology is increasingly popular in the skincare industry for targeting the signs of ageing. This technology leverages scientific advancements aimed at preserving telomere length to delay cellular ageing and improve skin vitality.
Is there a growing demand for science-led skincare and how is it influencing the market?
Rachel Davies: There is a noticeable rise in demand for science-driven skincare, as consumers are increasingly interested in understanding how products work, not just on the surface, but at the cellular level. Skincare brands are investing more in research to highlight the mechanisms behind their ingredients and prove their effectiveness. This trend is pushing the industry towards more innovative and scientifically backed formulations that appeal to a health-conscious audience looking for both immediate results and long-term benefits.
How can the right skincare help delay the signs of skin ageing?
Emilie Gombert: To genuinely delay the signs of ageing, skincare must focus on protecting cellular health, particularly by preserving telomere length. While products that boost collagen production can provide temporary improvements in appearance, they do not address the underlying cellular ageing processes driven by telomere shortening. Over time, the accumulation of senescent cells can undermine these short-term gains. The key to long-term anti-ageing lies in targeting the root causes, such as oxidative stress and telomere attrition, to maintain youthful skin at a deeper level.
What is the future of anti-ageing skincare?
Rachel Davies: Anti-ageing skincare is moving towards prevention and long-term skin health. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that target the root causes of ageing, such as telomere protection, rather than quick fixes. This shift reflects a more informed and health-conscious audience that values transparency, efficacy, and long-term results. Science-driven skincare products that promote both immediate benefits and lasting health are set to dominate the market.
