Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) is finally getting the attention it deserves. But what is the science behind this remarkable protein and its profound effects on skin health and rejuvenation? From its role in stimulating collagen production to aiding in wound repair and hyperpigmentation, EGF offers a truly regenerative approach to skin care. Join me as we explore the truth behind EGF, its benefits for various skin concerns, and why it’s cabinet worthy in the realm of anti-aging and acne treatments.
What Is Epidermal Growth Factor?
Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a single polypeptide of 53 amino acid residues which is involved in the regulation of new cell proliferation. EGF exerts its effects in the target cells by binding to the plasma membrane located in the EGF receptor. The EGF receptor is a transmembrane protein tyrosine kinase. These naturally occurring receptors decrease as we age.
How Does EGF Affect Our Skin?
EGF stimulates cells in the skin called fibroblasts, which produce collagen and elastin to clarify, thicken in a good way, and tighten skin. EGF activates signaling cascades that have many effects beyond new cell proliferation like reduced apoptosis, and angiogenesis, all of which are small but mighty life positive sequences.
What Do Growth Factors Do For Our Skin?
EGF assists our skin with wound repair, overall resilience, and hyperpigmentation when combined with UV shielding.
EGF In Skin Care
EGF can be derived from plants, animals, or even humans. Skin professionals robustly disagree on which is best for obvious reasons as diet and consumption philosophies vary greatly. It is agreed that they should not be combined with astringents and acid based skin products as these destroy their delicate structures that would otherwise be beneficial. Acid-based products and astringents are in all conventional acne and anti-aging products so odds are they won’t combine well with the average consumer’s cabinet.
The Truth Behind Epidermal Growth Factor
EGF is ideal for both acne inflicted skin as well as sun damaged aging skin. EGF is a regenerative skin ingredient. This class of skin care ingredients are rare as exfoliation and trauma-based products and procedures, though obsolete, still saturate the skin care market.
Final Thoughts On Epidermal Growth Factor
The full benefits of a good EGF product can only be received if foundational skin care practices are already in place. EGF is not a replacement for optimal hydration, Dermal Nutrients, barrier restoration, and occasional extractions to support native skin release function. These skin imperatives are the basic building blocks required so our skin can fulfill the potential of this substance. It is an exercise magnifier but not the food required to propel the exercise. EGF products are long overdue replacements for acids and astringents, especially when optimized with the skin care imperatives listed above.