What Is Accelerated Skin Aging, and How Does It Happen?
We’ve all seen it: two people of the same age, yet one looks noticeably older. This isn’t just about luck or good genes—it’s often the result of accelerated skin aging. But what exactly does that mean, and why does it happen? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Normal vs. Accelerated Skin Aging
Everyone’s skin changes with time. Natural, or “healthy,” aging includes gradual loss of collagen, slower cell renewal, and fine lines that appear over the years. Accelerated aging, however, occurs when these changes happen much faster than expected. Instead of developing slowly, wrinkles, sagging, and uneven tone show up early and progress quickly.
The Hidden Driver: SEHI
A fundamental cause behind accelerated skin aging is something called SEHI (Skin Epigenetic Hydroxylation Incompetence). That’s a mouthful, but here’s what it means: your skin cells have special “switches” that turn on repair and renewal genes. These switches rely on epigenetic hydroxylation—a natural process that keeps the skin youthful.
As we get older, or when our skin is exposed to stress such as UV rays, pollution, or poor lifestyle habits, these switches begin to fail. This condition is known as SEHI. When SEHI sets in, the skin can no longer properly activate its repair programs. The result is faster collagen loss, greater oxidative stress, and visible signs of aging long before they should appear.
How Accelerated Aging Develops
Several triggers combine to create accelerated aging:
- Sun Exposure: UV damage is one of the strongest accelerators, breaking down collagen and impairing DNA repair.
- Oxidative Stress: Pollution, stress, and poor diet create free radicals that damage skin cells.
- Hormonal Changes: Declines in estrogen and other hormones after midlife make the skin thinner and drier.
- SEHI Dysfunction: Once epigenetic repair pathways weaken, the skin can’t bounce back—even from small daily stressors.
Can Accelerated Aging Be Reversed?
The good news: while you can’t stop time, you can slow—and sometimes reset—accelerated aging. SEHI-targeted actives such as alpha-ketoglutarate and vitamin C have been shown to help restore epigenetic repair capacity and counteract SEHI. Combined with barrier-repairing hydrators, SPF, and a consistent routine, these ingredients can help your skin return to a healthier aging pace.
The Bottom Line
Accelerated skin aging isn’t inevitable. By understanding SEHI and protecting your skin from stress, you can guide it back toward healthy, graceful aging—and keep your natural glow for years to come.