Olay and 23andME conduct study to identify factors linked to skin aging

A brand of Procter & Gamble, Olay has joined personal genetics company 23andMe to carry out a study to identify reasons linked with exceptional skin aging.

This study found that external factors had a greater impact on exceptionally youthful skin appearance than two identified genetic variations. In particular, sunscreen use and positive attitude were correlated with younger-looking skin, while sunbathing and frequent dry skin were found to have negative link.

This collaboration follows a breakthrough discovery made last year when Olay identified biological commonalities among a group of women called exceptional skin agers.

In the brand’s largest research endeavour, the multi-decade and ethnicities (MDE) study, Olay researchers found that 10% of women looked more than 10 years younger than their actual age and had a unique gene expression fingerprint, which enabled their skin to look younger. 

In a recent study, involving more than 155,000 participants and conducted in collaboration with 23andMe, Olay researchers found that women can take control to beat skin aging.

It was found women who almost always used sunscreen were 78% less likely to have skin aging problems compared to women who almost never do.

Also, women who had a positive attitude towards themselves were 30% more likely to have younger-looking skin. Positive predictors included activity and energy levels, regular exercise, eight or more hours of sleep a night, multi-vitamin use, and high self-rated health.

Negative predictors included smoking cigarettes and a body mass index of over 25.

Olay's skincare principal scientist Dr. Frauke Neuser said: “These findings are incredibly exciting because they show that women can actively take beauty into their own hands.

“In this study, having skin that looks exceptionally young was not down to luck. Genetics plays some role, but factors within women's control have larger effects. Future genomics and genetics research might enable us to provide increasingly personalised services and product solutions for women around the world.”

Drawing inspiration from these insights, Olay claimed it has re-engineered some of its products with new ingredients to help more women’s skin look ageless. Reformulated products New Olay Regenerist, Luminous, and Total Effects are available at retail outlets in the US.

The company added that several new or reformulated Olay Regenerist, Luminous, and Total Effects products contain carob seed extract, carnosine, or increased amounts of antioxidants have shown to deliver visible results and youthful looking skin.