Skincare University

Molecular strategy for Skin Longevity—telomeres, NAD+, and autophagy

LEVEL 5
Anti-Aging vs Longevity

※ The information in this section is based on Japanese cosmetics regulations (Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act / 薬機法). Ingredient classifications, permitted concentrations, and labeling requirements may differ in your country or region.
LEVEL 5 Anti-Aging vs Longevity

Here we explain the three molecular axes for achieving Skin Longevity at the cellular level.

Axis 1: Telomere Stability Maintenance

Telomeres are protective structures at chromosome ends that shorten with each cell division. Upon reaching a critical length, the p53/p21 pathway activates and halts the cell cycle (= cellular senescence). Since UV-induced DNA damage accelerates telomere shortening, antioxidant ingredients indirectly contribute to telomere protection through prevention.

Axis 2: NAD+ Level Maintenance

NAD+ is the central molecule for cellular energy metabolism and repair processes. By the 50s, it declines to approximately 50% of levels seen in the 20s. The major pathways driven by NAD+ include SIRT1 (epigenetic regulation, inflammation suppression) and PARP1 (DNA repair). Niacinamide is the most practical precursor for replenishing NAD+ via the salvage pathway.

Axis 3: Autophagy Maintenance

Autophagy is a "cellular self-cleaning" mechanism that degrades and recycles damaged organelles and proteins. Its age-related decline leads to accumulation of oxidatively damaged proteins. Trehalose and resveratrol induce autophagy through mTOR-independent pathways.

Skin Longevity: Interconnection of Three Axes PARP1 DNA Repair SIRT1 Activation Damage Clearance / Protection Enhancement SIRT1 Central Regulator NAD+ Energy Metabolism Autophagy Cellular Self-Cleaning Telomere Chromosome Protection The three axes mutually reinforce each other through SIRT1 Supporting one axis improves the other two in tandem

Interconnection of the Three Axes

NAD+ -> SIRT1 activation -> autophagy promotion -> removal of damaged proteins. Simultaneously, PARP1 activation -> DNA repair -> telomere protection -> delayed cellular senescence -> SASP suppression -> prevention of chronic inflammation = Skin Longevity.

System Health, Not Output

Anti-aging focuses on "output," while Skin Longevity focuses on "system health (homeostasis)."

To use a car analogy: anti-aging is "repairing body scratches." Skin Longevity is "properly maintaining the engine and oil so the car can keep running for a long time."

KAIAN develops skincare products based on the Skin Longevity philosophy.
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