A Narrative Review On Critical Roles Of Iron Levels In Skin Tone, Aging, And Photoaging
Our skin, the body’s largest organ, visibly shows the passage of time through wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. While we understand that time itself leads to aging, there’s a deeper biological process at play, and a surprising element has emerged as a key player: iron.
Historically, the role of iron in skin health has been overlooked, but new research highlights its critical influence on skin tone, aging, and sun-induced damage (photoaging). It turns out that an excess buildup of iron in the skin can lead to the formation of harmful molecules called oxidants. These oxidants are responsible for discoloration, giving the skin a dull and uneven appearance, and significantly contributing to the overall aging process.
One of the reasons for this accumulation is that iron remains in the skin for approximately 60 days, which is twice the typical skin cell turnover period of 26 days. This extended presence allows iron to build up over time, especially as we age. Furthermore, factors like sun exposure can degrade ferritin, a protein that stores iron, releasing more free iron and intensifying oxidative stress, thereby worsening photoaging.
This understanding suggests that addressing iron-related discoloration and oxidative stress is vital for improving skin health and appearance. While current skincare often focuses on antioxidants to neutralize oxidants after they form, this approach has limitations because antioxidants are consumed and may not penetrate deeply enough. The emerging perspective points towards a more comprehensive skincare strategy that considers managing iron levels to prevent damage before it starts, offering a proactive way to maintain healthier, more radiant skin.
Source: link to paper