WHAT IS THE EXPOSOME ?

We tend to think that the skin ages with the passage of time. But did you know that some factors are more important to skin aging than just timing or genetics?

The genome is only responsible for 25% of diseases or aging processes. This explains why two genetically identical twins can age drastically differently if they lead different lifestyles and are not exposed to certain external factors with the same frequency.

You are 75% responsible for your own aging, not only of your skin, but of the body as a whole.

The set of external factors that come into play is called the "exposome": environmental and exposure factors that we are subjected to from birth that are important to both our health and our skin. In other words, if you are able to protect yourself against these factors, your skin will look younger and healthier, regardless of your biological age. At the skin level, the most important factors are sunlight, pollution, diet, smoking, stress or lack of sleep. What can we do about it?

• Photoprotection. The best anti-wrinkle cream is the use of sun protection and antioxidant serums on a daily basis, to better combat the effects of these radiations on the skin.
• Avoiding environmental pollution. If you live in big cities like Paris or New york, it's harder to avoid it, hence the importance of more anti-pollution measures and the daily use of antioxidants to better combat it.
• Diet. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, with plenty of colors, vitamins and antioxidants. Avoiding exposure to toxins like tobacco or alcohol.
• Avoid stress. This is easier said than done, but it's important to be aware that stress ages and makes you sick. Combine relaxing moments during the day with daily exercise like yoga, meditation or mindfulness. Find out what helps you to disconnect and feel less stress. Did you need any other reason to ask your partner for a massage or set aside a few hours to float in a bubble bath? Treat yourself.
• Get plenty of rest. It's important to get at least 7 hours of sleep a day. 

Were you aware that the way you age depends mostly on the lifestyle you choose to lead? It depends on you, so choose the best allies to fight the exposome.

What do you do to feel relaxed? Leave us a comment. We’ll love to read it!

Carmen D.