THE SCIENCE OF SKIN AGEING

Invisible Damage Every Day

Learn how oxidation, glycation and carbonylation influence visible skin ageing and why astaxanthin sits at the heart of every CUTISÉ formula.

THREE HIDDEN PROCESSES

Why Skin Ages

Skin changes gradually as environmental exposure, lifestyle and normal biology place stress on cells, proteins and the skin barrier.

01

Oxidation

EVERYDAY ANALOGY Like rust

Free radicals react with skin cells, lipids and proteins, contributing to dullness and visible ageing.

02

Glycation

EVERYDAY ANALOGY Burnt Sugar

Excess sugars can bind to proteins such as collagen, making them less flexible over time.

03

Carbonylation

EVERYDAY ANALOGY Burnt Cooking Oil

Reactive carbonyl compounds can alter proteins and lipids, affecting texture and resilience.

WHAT IS OXIDATION?

When Apples Meet Oxygen

When oxygen reacts with the apple, its colour and structure begin to change. Skin also experiences oxidation. UV exposure, pollution, stress and normal metabolism can generate free radicals. When free radicals outnumber the skin’s antioxidant defences, oxidative stress occurs.

1
Exposure

Sun, pollution and everyday stress increase free-radical formation.

2
Free radicals

These unstable molecules seek electrons from nearby cells and proteins.

3
Oxidative stress

Damage builds when free radicals exceed the skin’s natural defences.

4
Visible changes

Over time, skin may appear duller, less even and less resilient.

THE OXIDATIVE STRESS CYCLE

What Are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are unstable molecules. In small amounts they are part of normal biology. Problems arise when too many accumulate and begin reacting with healthy cells, lipids and structural proteins.

01

Exposure

UV, pollution, stress and normal metabolism.

02

Free Radicals

Unstable molecules seek electrons from nearby structures.

03

Cell Stress

Lipids, proteins and cell membranes can be affected.

04

Visible Ageing

Skin may look duller, rougher and less resilient over time.

MEET ASTAXANTHIN

Nature's Red Antioxidant

Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring pigment found in certain microalgae and marine organisms. In nature, it helps organisms manage environmental stress. In skincare, it is valued for antioxidant activity and its compatibility with lipid-rich structures such as cell membranes.

Natural OriginProduced by microalgae and responsible for a distinctive red-orange colour.
Antioxidant RoleStudied for its ability to interact with reactive oxygen species.
Lipid CompatibilityIts structure allows interaction with lipid-rich cell membranes.
Skincare RelevanceUsed to support antioxidant-focused daily skincare routines.
Antioxidant defence

YOUR SKIN'S DEFENCE SYSTEM

Antioxidants Break the Chain

Think of antioxidants as a response team. They can neutralise certain free radicals before those molecules continue reacting with nearby cells and proteins. Antioxidants complement, but not replacedaily sunscreen and healthy lifestyle habits.

01 Neutralise

Help stabilise reactive molecules.

02 Protect

Support cell membranes and skin lipids.

03 Preserve

Help reduce oxidative pressure on collagen and elastin.

04 Support

Complement sunscreen and a consistent routine.

WHY CUTISÉ CHOSE IT

Not All Antioxidants Are Equal

Vitamin E
500 times
Stronger than
Vitamin E
Green Tea
560 times
Stronger than
Green Tea
CoQ10
800 times
Stronger than
CoQ10
Resveratrol
3000 times
Stronger than
Resveratrol
Vitamin C
6000 times
Stronger than
Vitamin C
i

Nishida et al (2007). Carotenoid Science. Vol.11:16-20

THE CUTISÉ APPROACH

Your Skin Can Be Better Supported Through It

Every CUTISÉ formula combines astaxanthin with complementary ingredients selected for a clear purpose, from cleansing and hydration to brightness, comfort and visible vitality.

What Can You Do Every Day?

No single ingredient can replace the basics. The most effective approach combines sun protection, healthy habits and a consistent skincare routine.

Wear Sunscreen

Use broad-spectrum SPF and reapply when needed.

🥗

Eat Colourful Foods

Fruit and vegetables provide a range of dietary antioxidants.

😴

Prioritise Sleep

Sleep supports normal repair and recovery processes.

💧

Stay Hydrated

Support overall wellbeing and skin comfort.

🚭

Avoid Smoking

Smoking increases oxidative stress and accelerates collagen breakdown.

🍰

Reduce Excess Sugar

High sugar intake can contribute to glycation.

🧴

Use Antioxidants

Apply antioxidant skincare consistently as part of your routine.

🧘

Manage Stress

Regular movement and relaxation can support overall wellbeing.

Antioxidant skincare supports your routine, but sunscreen remains the most important daily step for reducing UV-related skin damage.