Dr. Anthony Youn: Get A Younger Face Without Surgery!

Added: Feb 14, 2024

In this podcast episode, Dr. Anthony Youn, a board-certified plastic surgeon, best-selling author, and anti-aging expert, discusses various factors that contribute to skin aging. He highlights four major causes of skin aging: collagen degradation, inflammation, free radicals or oxidation, and loss of autophagy.

Key takeaways

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Reduce sugar intake and consume a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants to combat inflammation and slow down skin aging.

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Incorporate intermittent fasting into your routine to promote autophagy, supporting cellular rejuvenation and overall health.

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Prioritize a basic skincare routine that includes cleansing, applying antioxidant serum, and using sunscreen in the morning, and retinoids in the evening.

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Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to protect the skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging.

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Consider incorporating supplements such as multivitamins, omega-3, probiotics, collagen, and antioxidants to support skin health and overall wellness.

The Impact of Collagen Degradation on Skin Aging

Collagen degradation is a significant factor in skin aging, as collagen makes up a large portion of the skin and provides structure and tightness. As people age, they lose collagen thickness, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Dr. Youn explains that collagen supplements can help replenish collagen in the body, particularly hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are absorbed effectively.

The Impact of Inflammation on Skin Aging

Inflammation, especially chronic inflammation caused by factors like sugar consumption, can accelerate skin aging. Glycation, a process where sugar molecules bind to collagen and elastin, can lead to inflammation and damage to the skin. Dr. Youn emphasizes the importance of reducing sugar intake and consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants to combat inflammation.

The Impact of Free Radicals on Skin Aging

Free radicals or oxidation, byproducts of metabolism, can damage cells and accelerate aging. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals and protecting the skin. Dr. Youn recommends eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to increase antioxidant intake and counteract free radical damage.

Stress is another significant factor in skin aging, as chronic stress can lead to increased free radicals and inflammation in the body. Dr. Youn shares his personal experience of managing stress through meditation and highlights the importance of stress management in anti-aging strategies.

The Impact of Loss of Autophagy on Skin Aging

The fourth cause of skin aging, loss of autophagy, involves the accumulation of intracellular debris and waste products in cells. Autophagy is the body's mechanism for clearing out this debris and rejuvenating cells. Intermittent fasting is recommended to promote autophagy, allowing the body to use stored proteins as energy and clean out cellular waste.

Intermittent fasting involves periods of not eating, typically ranging from 12 to 16 hours. Dr. Youn suggests starting with a 12-hour fast and gradually increasing to a 16-hour fast a few times a week. Fasting can help improve cellular function, promote anti-aging effects, and support overall health.

Misconceptions About Breakfast

Dr. Youn addresses common misconceptions about breakfast being the most important meal of the day and explains that fasting can be tailored to individual preferences and lifestyles. He emphasizes the importance of hydration during fasting periods and suggests incorporating high-protein foods before bedtime to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve sleep quality.

Extreme Practices

While some anti-aging practices may seem extreme, such as prolonged fasting or cold plunges, Dr. Youn believes in focusing on evidence-based strategies like intermittent fasting and collagen supplementation. He acknowledges the effectiveness of Botox as a cosmetic treatment for reducing wrinkles, emphasizing its safety and efficacy in anti-aging skincare routines.

Skincare Routine

Dr. Youn recommends a basic skincare routine that consists of cleansing, applying antioxidant serum, and using sunscreen in the morning. For the evening routine, he suggests cleansing, applying an anti-aging cream with retinoids, and exfoliating two to three times a week. This routine is designed to keep the skin clean, protected, and nourished, while also addressing signs of aging.

Importance of Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a crucial role in skincare as they help fight free radicals, which are a major cause of aging. Vitamin C is a common antioxidant used in skincare products, as it helps prevent damage to the skin and promotes a youthful appearance. By incorporating antioxidant serums into the skincare routine, individuals can protect their skin from environmental stressors and maintain a healthy complexion.

Benefits of Retinoids

Retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A, are highly recommended by dermatologists and plastic surgeons for their anti-aging properties. Retinol, a non-prescription strength retinoid, is readily available in skincare products and helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote collagen production. By using retinoids in the evening skincare routine, individuals can effectively address signs of aging and maintain a youthful appearance.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen is a crucial component of a skincare routine, especially in the morning. Dr. Youn advises using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect the skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging. While reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is recommended, especially if spending extended periods in the sun, applying it in the morning provides essential protection for daily activities.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

In addition to skincare, Dr. Youn emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support overall well-being and skin health. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, proteins, and healthy fats, as well as staying hydrated and getting regular exercise. By nourishing the body from the inside out, individuals can improve their skin's appearance and overall health.

Supplements and Probiotics

Dr. Youn discusses the role of supplements in supporting skin health and overall wellness. While he recommends a multivitamin, omega-3, probiotic, collagen supplement, and antioxidant supplement for general health, he highlights the importance of bio-individuality in determining specific needs. Probiotics, in particular, are beneficial for gut health and can impact skin conditions, such as acne and inflammation, by maintaining a healthy microbiome.

Moderation and Bio-Individuality

Finding a balance between healthy choices and indulgences is key to maintaining a sustainable lifestyle. Dr. Youn suggests taking small steps towards healthier habits, such as reducing sugar intake or trying gluten-free options, to see how the body responds. Bio-individuality plays a significant role in determining what works best for each individual, and experimenting with different approaches can help identify optimal strategies for skin and overall health.

Personalized Skincare

While Dr. Youn provides a simple skincare routine for general use, he acknowledges that skincare preferences and needs vary among individuals. Some may prefer a more extensive routine or specific products based on their skin type and concerns. By understanding one's skin and experimenting with different products, individuals can tailor their skincare regimen to achieve optimal results.

Hair Care and Thinning Hair

Dr. Youn shares his personal experience with hair thinning and discusses various approaches to address the issue. He emphasizes the importance of reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and considering nutritional supplements for hair health. He also mentions the benefits of low light laser therapy and using rosemary oil for hair growth. He explains the potential benefits of platelet-rich plasma therapy for hair restoration and shares his plan to explore this option in the future.

Controversy in the Medical Field

Dr. Youn delves into the controversy surrounding breast implants and the concept of implant illness. He discusses how social media has allowed women to share their experiences and concerns regarding breast implants, leading to a shift in perspective within the medical community. Dr. Youn acknowledges the challenges he faced when speaking out about implant illness and the backlash he received from some colleagues. He highlights the importance of listening to patients and considering their experiences when addressing health issues.

Impact of Money in Healthcare

Dr. Youn reflects on the influence of money in the healthcare industry, particularly in relation to medical treatments and procedures. He shares his experience of being pushed out of a hospital due to financial considerations and emphasizes the profit-driven nature of healthcare systems. He discusses the challenges of balancing patient care with financial interests and the impact this has on medical decision-making.

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