Resistance Training Rejuvenates Aging Skin
Resistance Training Rejuvenates Aging Skin By Reducing Circulating Inflammatory Factors
New research sheds light on how exercise not only keeps our bodies healthy but also helps our skin stay youthful. A study involving 56 middle-aged Japanese women explored the effects of aerobic training (AT) and resistance training (RT) on skin aging and found impressive results.
Key Takeaways
Exercise Reduces Skin Aging
Both aerobic (AT) and resistance (RT) exercises improved skin elasticity and structure, helping counter common signs of aging like sagging and dullness.
Resistance Training (RT) Builds Skin Thickness
RT showed unique benefits by increasing dermal thickness (the deeper skin layer), which naturally thins with age. This thicker skin is healthier, stronger, and more resilient.
The Role of Body Chemistry
RT works its magic partly by reducing certain inflammatory markers in the blood. Lower levels of these markers help stimulate a protein called biglycan, essential for keeping skin thick and firm.
Meanwhile, AT boosts beneficial factors such as promoting collagen and mitochondrial health for smoother, more radiant skin.
Collagen Boost Across the Board
Both types of exercise increased collagen and other proteins in the skin's structure, enhancing elasticity and resilience against aging.
As we age, our skin loses elasticity and thickness, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and vulnerability. Exercise, whether aerobic or strength-focused, can directly combat these changes by positively impacting skin layers, proteins, and inflammation levels. In addition, regular exercise boosts blood flow, supporting nutrient delivery to skin cells and keeping them healthy.
Both AT and RT have anti-aging effects on the skin, but RT has the extra benefit of increasing skin thickness—a big win for keeping skin strong as we age. To support skin health, consider a balanced fitness routine that includes both cardio and strength training.