What are sirtuins—and what do you need to know about them?
Sirtuins are a group of 7 proteins (named SIRT1 through SIRT7) found in every cell of the body—including skin cells. They play an important role in helping the body stay healthy and slow down aging.
Why are sirtuins scientifically exciting and important for skin?
Also known as “longevity proteins”, research shows that these powerhouse proteins are critical in keeping cells healthier for longer—which can help increase cellular health span. When it comes to skin, research has also shown that sirtuins are involved in key pathways that fight aging like metabolism, energy production, and reducing inflammation.
What’s unique about Estée Lauder sirtuin research?
With over 15 years of research and 35 publications and conferences, we’ve been leading the way in studying the role between sirtuins and skin longevity.
We began by researching SIRT-1 in collaboration with Dr. Guarente’s lab from The Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which made the primary discoveries on sirtuins. Later, working with Harvard scientists, we found that SIRT-3 helps skin cells regain and restore their natural ability to produce energy.
As our research grew, we turned our attention to SIRT-6, which hadn’t been studied much in skin. This led us to developing our own models to understand how critical SIRT-6 is for skin cells. We did the same for SIRT-2, helping us better understand its role in skin.
Together, our research shows that each sirtuin supports different key functions in skin cells—helping them stay healthy and keep skin looking and acting younger.
What is the future of Estée Lauder sirtuin research?
Our research shows that aging and environmental stress can cause sirtuins to decline, but we’re not stopping there. We’re continuing to explore new ways to help skin stay healthy and work its best as we age, including ongoing studies on sirtuins and their effects on skin.
Discover more about skin longevity, our skin longevity research and breakthrough science here.