The Connection Between Skin Health and Cognitive Function: Importance of Moisturization

Recent studies show that aging skin is not only an aesthetic issue but also closely related to cognitive decline. Various studies and cases have demonstrated that maintaining healthy skin positively impacts both mental and physical health. Particularly, using moisturizers and protecting against UV exposure are emphasized for their importance to skin and brain health.

The Connection Between Skin and Brain: Deeper Than Expected

The skin plays a vital role beyond just serving as a physical barrier. According to research from the Mayo Clinic in the United States, aged skin cells can behave like 'zombie cells,' aging neighboring healthy cells as well (Source: Mayo Clinic, 2023). In an experiment where aged skin cells from old mice were transplanted into healthy mice, not only did the skin age, but also muscles and the brain showed signs of aging. This suggests that the skin affects not only its immediate surroundings but also various organs, particularly the brain, by producing bioactive substances.

Since skin and the brain are derived from the same ectodermal cells, the skin can perform physiological actions similar to the brain. In fact, the skin can generate neurotransmitters such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which suggests that skin is more than just a physical organ. Professor Jin-ho Jung from Seoul National University's Institute on Aging points out that "the effects of aging skin cells on the body are significant," and research into senolytics—targeting and removing aged cells—is actively ongoing (Source: The Economist, 2023). This approach aims to improve overall health by selectively removing aged cells, and it is a significant area of research that even government agencies are supporting.

Impact of Aging Skin on Cognitive Function

Deterioration in skin condition can lead to cognitive decline. According to research by Professor Ji-yeon Hong from Chung-Ang University Hospital, dry or UV-damaged skin can trigger inflammatory responses, and these inflammatory substances travel through the bloodstream to the brain, promoting cognitive decline (Source: Chung-Ang University Hospital Research Report, 2022). The cytokines produced during this process cause mild inflammation and ultimately accelerate aging in other organs.

A research team led by Professor Maoxiang Man at the University of California, San Francisco, studied elderly people who used moisturizers for three to four years versus those who did not. The results showed that those who did not use moisturizers had higher levels of inflammatory substances in their blood and experienced a faster decline in cognitive function (Source: University of California, San Francisco, 2023). This indicates that skin moisturization is not merely a cosmetic matter but plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive health.

Importance of Moisturization: Research Findings and Recommendations

Professor Jin-ho Jung emphasizes the importance of moisturizers, stating, "Consistent use of moisturizers can reduce cytokine levels in the blood." For skin health, it is recommended to use moisturizers containing cholesterol, ceramides, and fatty acids in a 1:1:1 ratio, and apply them twice a day (Source: Seoul National University Institute on Aging Report, 2023). If the skin is dry and itchy, the moisturizer can be used three to four times a day. Such moisturizers strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation, positively affecting not only skin health but also overall health.

Health Risks of UV Exposure

UV exposure has negative effects not only on skin health but also on the brain and metabolism. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, it leads to an increase in cortisol, a stress hormone, which can inhibit neurogenesis in the hippocampus, resulting in memory decline. Research by Professor Jin-ho Jung from Seoul National University shows that UV exposure also causes an overproduction of neurotransmitters like dopamine, leading to depression and impaired memory, as confirmed in animal experiments (Source: Journal of Dermatological Science, 2023).

Furthermore, UV exposure suppresses lipid synthesis in the subcutaneous fat layer, leading to the accumulation of visceral fat. This increases the risk of metabolic diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes. Chronic UV exposure reduces the production of adiponectin, a beneficial substance produced by skin fat cells, leading to issues with carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, ultimately affecting both skin and neural functions negatively. It is essential to use sunscreen with SPF 50+ and PA+++ ratings to protect against UV exposure. Sunscreen should be applied even on cloudy days and reapplied every two hours (Source: American Academy of Dermatology, 2023).

Conclusion

The skin is not merely a barrier protecting the body from the outside but a critical organ directly linked to overall health. Research demonstrates that skin health affects various organs, including the brain, and emphasizes the role of moisturizers and UV protection in breaking this linkage. Aging skin can accelerate cognitive decline, making consistent moisturization and UV protection essential for maintaining healthy skin.

By maintaining skin health, one can prevent cognitive decline and improve overall physical health. It is crucial to establish habits such as daily application of moisturizers and protecting the skin from UV radiation. These small habits collectively improve the quality of life and contribute to maintaining a sharp mind and a healthy body even in old age.

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