I learned something new today

Here’s where it gets interesting: if you’re not getting enough selenium, it can lead to something called increased oxidative stress. Remember those free radicals we just talked about? Without enough selenium, your body has a harder time fighting them off, and this oxidative stress is a significant player in the development of age spots.

When your skin is lacking adequate selenium, it becomes much more vulnerable to damage from things like UV radiation from the sun and other environmental aggressors. This increased vulnerability can trigger the overproduction of melanin, ultimately leading to the formation of those tell-tale age spots. Making sure you have sufficient selenium intake can really help to reduce these risks and promote healthier, more resilient skin.

What Science Says About Selenium and Skin:
It’s not just theory; scientific research has backed up the benefits of selenium for skin health. Studies have consistently shown that selenium offers protective effects against UV-induced skin damage. This means it can help shield your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays, which are a major cause of age spots and even contribute to the risk of skin cancer.

Furthermore, research indicates that when selenium is combined with other antioxidants, it can actually improve skin elasticity – helping your skin stay supple and less prone to wrinkles – and reduce the appearance of age spots. These findings underscore just how important selenium is for maintaining overall skin health and preventing those common age-related skin changes.

Spotting a Selenium Deficiency: What to Look For: