Nitric Oxide (NO) is a gaseous molecule that plays a key role in neurotransmission, inflammation, apoptosis, cardiovascular health, and immune health.
Recently, research has unveiled its promising benefits for skin health, aiding in anti-aging and promoting a youthful complexion. This article examines nitric oxide's role in the aging process, with a specific focus on its impact on skin health.
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What is Nitric Oxide, and How Does it Function?
Nitric Oxide (NO) is a molecule responsible for various functions throughout the human body. NO is involved in the relaxation of smooth muscle tissue and vasodilation. Regarding the cardiovascular system, NO regulates vasodilation, platelet aggregation, myocardial function, and oxygen delivery to tissues.
Dysregulation of NO can result in cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart failure, and increased risk of myocardial infarction (3).
How Does Nitric Oxide Affect the Skin Aging Process?
Nitric oxide (NO) plays a critical role in maintaining both healthy and aging skin. As we age, the production and function of NO change significantly, affecting overall skin health. A nutrient-poor diet high in sugar can exacerbate these changes by causing toxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation, ultimately reducing levels of L-arginine, a crucial amino acid for NO synthesis.
All skin cells express nitric oxide synthase (NOS), the enzyme responsible for NO production. This enzyme's activity is vital for various skin functions, including microcirculation, which ensures nutrient and oxygen delivery to skin tissues. NO also aids in forming a protective barrier, enhancing antimicrobial defense, and regulating erythema (redness) in response to UV exposure. (1, 4)
As NO levels decline with age, these protective and reparative processes become less efficient. Reduced NO can lead to impaired blood flow, weaker skin barrier, increased susceptibility to infections, and diminished ability to heal from UV damage. Therefore, maintaining adequate NO levels is essential for preserving skin health and mitigating the effects of aging.
The Top 4 Anti-Aging Benefits of Nitric Oxide for Skin
Nitric oxide offers several powerful benefits that can significantly enhance skin health and combat the signs of aging. Here are the top 4 benefits:
1. Nitric Oxide Enhances Blood Flow and Nutrient Delivery
Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow to the skin through its vasodilatory effects. In the skin, NO is produced by fibroblasts, endothelial cells, keratinocytes, and immune cells.
The NO produced by endothelial cells causes vasodilation and enhanced blood flow to the skin. This vasodilation allows proper transport of oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the skin, which aids in the repair of damaged skin cells.
Dysregulation of nitric oxide has been implicated in inflammatory skin disorders such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, Sjogren’s syndrome, keloids, and pemphigus vulgaris (13).
2. Nitric Oxide Stimulates Collagen Production
Nitric oxide plays a key role in stimulating collagen production, which is an important ingredient in skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and serves as a structural framework for several tissues.
It has been shown that nitric oxide can stimulate fibroblast activity, which promotes collagen synthesis. In addition, NO acts as an antioxidant, helping protect the skin from oxidative stress. By decreasing oxidative stress, NO may indirectly support collagen synthesis (1, 30).
3. Nitric Oxide Aids in Wound Healing
Nitric oxide plays a pivotal role in the wound-healing process due to its antimicrobial and inflammation-modulating actions.
Chronic wounds such as pressure ulcers, vascular ulcers, and diabetic ulcers affect between 2.4 and 4.5 million people in the United States and are characterized by decreased collagen production, impaired inflammatory response, and tissue hypoxia.
Nitric oxide can be used to accelerate wound healing because it regulates inflammation and recruits keratinocytes to help with skin repair. Nitric oxide plays an important role in antimicrobial mechanisms to aid in wound healing (22).
4. Nitric Oxide Helps Protect Against Environmental Damage
There is growing evidence that nitric oxide may help protect the skin against UV radiation. When skin is exposed to UV radiation, it stimulates the release of nitric oxide, which can then help defend against the damage caused by UV-induced free radicals.
Nitric oxide helps protect the skin from UV radiation in several ways. Its antioxidant properties allow it to scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, nitric oxide protects endothelial cells from the damaging effects of UV radiation, preventing cell death. This multifaceted protection helps combat premature aging caused by UV exposure. (1)
How to Naturally Boost Nitric Oxide Levels for Skin Anti-Aging
Enhancing nitric oxide levels naturally can be a powerful strategy for promoting skin health and reducing the signs of skin aging.
Boost Nitric Oxide With Diet
Eating a diet high in nitrates and L-arginine can enhance the body’s nitric oxide levels. Beets and beetroot juice are known to contain high levels of nitrates, which then get converted to nitric oxide. Nuts and seeds such as walnuts, brazil nuts, and almonds contain high levels of L-arginine and L-citrulline, which are two amino acids involved in nitric oxide synthesis.
Additionally, garlic increases nitric oxide availability and promotes proper endothelial function. By consuming a diet high in these foods, you can naturally increase your nitric oxide levels and reverse signs of premature aging (3, 11, 26).
Boost Nitric Oxide With Exercise
Physical exercise such as aerobic activity and resistance training stimulate the body to produce nitric oxide. During exercise, the body responds to decreased oxygen by activating the release of nitric oxide.
The rise in NO levels throughout the body promotes oxygen delivery to tissues, increases blood flow, and decreases oxidative stress. Improved circulation and oxygen delivery to the skin aid in skin health and elasticity (28).
Boost Nitric Oxide With Supplements
L-arginine and L-citrulline are crucial amino acids used in the production of nitric oxide. L-arginine is the precursor for nitric oxide production and L-citrulline is directly converted to nitric oxide. Supplementing these amino acids can help enhance nitric oxide production (17).
Boost Nitric Oxide With Skincare Products
Nitric oxide has recently been added to skincare products to protect against signs of aging. These emerging formulas harness the power of nitric oxide to promote collagen synthesis, improve circulation, and protect against environmental stressors. While data surrounding topical application is limited, these products offer promising anti-aging benefits.
Considerations and Potential Side Effects
Nitric oxide supplementation is considered safe. However, there are a few side effects and contraindications to watch out for.
- Those taking blood pressure medication should avoid taking nitric oxide supplements as both decrease blood pressure, leading to hypotension.
- Side effects of L-arginine and L-citrulline include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
It is important to consult with a functional medicine practitioner before supplementation to ensure it is best for you (12, 14).
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Key Takeaways
Nitric oxide is a promising ally in anti-aging and improving skin health. With its ability to enhance collagen production and improve circulation to the skin, nitric oxide can reverse premature aging. To maintain youthful skin, supplementation and nutritional changes can help elevate nitric oxide levels leading to a more youthful complexion.
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