Epigenetics of skin aging: from mechanisms to the search for methods of correction

Age-related changes in the body are a complex biological process that requires research at the intersection of various scientific disciplines. Modern science has made significant progress in the study of molecular, cellular, genetic and biochemical mechanisms of aging. This has allowed us to formulate concepts that describe the influence of external factors on the genome and open up prospects for creating methods of functional rejuvenation. A special place among them is occupied by studies aimed at studying the system of regulation of gene activity that is not associated with a change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA, but has a significant impact on gene expression. These issues are addressed by an actively developing scientific discipline – epigenetics. Epigenomic processes reflect the interaction of genotype and phenotype, playing a key role in the adaptation of aging processes in response to environmental influences. At the same time, the skin is a unique model for studying these mechanisms due to its complex structure, constant renewal and direct interaction with external factors. The article provides an analysis of the modern concept of skin aging, in which the idea of the leading role of heredity is combined with new scientific data on the importance of epigenetic regulation. Key epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation disorders, histone modifications and gene dysregulation mediated by microRNA are considered. It is emphasized that the study of the mechanisms of the influence of environmental factors on the epigenome opens up prospects for finding therapeutic approaches that contribute to the correction and prevention of age-related changes. The effect of lifestyle modification, physiotherapy methods and various chemical compounds on the epigenetic processes of aging is described. It is noted that the correction of the molecular mechanisms of skin aging can provide a sustainable clinical effect and is of particular interest in the development of cosmetics for epigenetic skin care. Attention is focused on the fact that the integration of epigenetic research into aesthetic dermatology allows not only to correct the external signs of aging, but also to influence their deep biological mechanisms.