Impact of Vitamin D on Skin Aging, and Age-Related Dermatological Conditions
Front. Biosci. (Landmark Ed) 2025, 30(1), 25463; https://doi.org/10.31083/FBL25463
Sankalya S. Ambagaspitiya1, Gayan A. Appuhamillage2, Sunil J. Wimalawansa3 suniljw at hotmail.com
- 1 Department of Biosystems Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 10206 Homagama, Sri Lanka
- 2 Department of Materials and Mechanical Technology, Faculty of Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 10206 Homagama, Sri Lanka
- 3 Cardiometabolic and Endocrine Institute, North Brunswick, NJ 08902, USA
Human skin is a physical and biochemical barrier that protects the internal body from the external environment. Throughout a person’s life, the skin undergoes both intrinsic and extrinsic aging, leading to microscopic and macroscopic changes in its morphology. In addition, the repair processes slow with aging, making the older population more susceptible to skin diseases. Intrinsic factors associated with advanced age gradually degrade the dermal collagen matrix, resulting in fine wrinkles and reduced elasticity; this is accelerated in post-menopausal women due to estrogen deficiency. In contrast, extrinsic factors associated with advanced age, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, lead to coarse wrinkles, solar elastosis, hyperkeratosis, irregular pigmentation, and skin cancers. UVB radiation, while contributing to skin photo-aging, also induces the cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D. Vitamin D, in turn, protects the skin from oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage, thereby delaying both chronological and photo-aging. Moreover, research has demonstrated an association between lower vitamin D levels and a higher prevalence of certain cutaneous diseases. This review explores and summarizes the critical role of vitamin D in skin aging and age-related skin diseases. The data presented highlight the importance of maintaining vitamin D adequacy throughout life.
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Perplexity AI Summary
This comprehensive review examines the relationship between vitamin D and skin aging,
focusing on both intrinsic aging processes and external factors affecting skin health.
Key Findings
Skin Structure and Vitamin D Synthesis
The skin consists of three main layers - epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis - each playing crucial roles in vitamin D production and metabolism
UVB radiation converts 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin to pre-vitamin D, which is then converted to vitamin D3 through thermal isomerization
Aging Mechanisms
The skin undergoes both intrinsic and extrinsic aging processes:
- Intrinsic aging leads to fine wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and thinning of the epidermis
- Extrinsic aging, primarily from UV exposure, causes coarse wrinkles, pigmentation changes, and increased risk of skin cancers
Vitamin D's Protective Effects
Vitamin D provides multiple protective benefits against skin aging:
- Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation
- Promotes DNA repair mechanisms
- Regulates collagen production and matrix metalloproteinases
- Enhances immune system function in the skin
Clinical Implications
Skin Structure and Vitamin D Synthesis
Age-Related Skin Conditions
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with various skin conditions common in elderly populations:
- Fungal infections
- Urticaria and pruritus
- Atopic dermatitis
- Seborrheic keratosis
- Skin cancers
Therapeutic Applications
The research suggests maintaining adequate vitamin D levels (above 40 ng/mL) through safe sun exposure or supplementation may help:
- Protect against age-related skin diseases
- Improve skin barrier function
- Enhance wound healing
- Reduce inflammation
The study concludes that vitamin D plays a crucial role in skin health and aging, though more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and therapeutic potential
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