Latest news with #antiaging
The Sun
6 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
Wrinkle-free 52-year-old woman who doesn't use Botox shares how she looks 25 thanks to secret that makes her skin glow
IF you're desperate to stay looking youthful and keep wrinkles at bay, you've come to the right place. Luckily for those on a mission to combat ageing, a woman who is mistaken for looking decades younger than she actually is has revealed the secret she swears by. 3 3 And don't worry, you won't have to worry about splashing the cash on posh beauty lotions, potions and serums and even better, there's no Botox or painful procedures in sight. Lorraine Pascale, a British TV chef, took to social media to share the secret behind her wrinkle-free skin - and it couldn't be simpler. Instead of loading up her skin with countless products or getting needles injected into her face, the model turned TV presenter, who first hit our screens in 2011, claimed that her youthful skin is all down to her diet. Responding to a question she often receives - 'How is your skin like that at 52?' - the stunner shared the food she always eats to get her face glowing. As she tucked into a large fruit bowl containing pineapple, strawberries, grapes and apple, the Hackney-born celebrity revealed her simple secret - fruit. Lorraine has . While she used to 'beat herself up' for eating the wrong things, now, Lorraine shares healthy dishes and recipes online. It's common knowledge that fruits and vegetables are beneficial to your health and according to The Dermatology Group, not only can such produce keep you feeling energised and healthy, but they are also imperative to your skin health. Without consuming fruit and vegetables, experts warn that your skin will deteriorate over time. The experts also revealed that fruits and vegetables contain a large number of vitamins, including Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K. I'm 50 next year & don't have a single wrinkle thanks to a product from Boots or TikTok shop - I've never had Botox Vitamins D, C, E, and K in particular are good for the skin. Not only this, fruits and veggies also contain antioxidants which are essential for good skin health and keeping our faces looking youthful and healthy. How to reverse ageing in just 2 weeks, according to royal go-to nutritionist LONDON -based Gabriela Peacock, who has helped the likes of Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie prepare for their weddings. She told Fabulous: 'The science is evident that we all have the power to make simple life changing alterations to better our future selves - no matter what genetic hand we might have been dealt with. 'The reality is, we all sometimes indulge in unhealthy eating habits like processed foods, smoking cigarettes, drinking too much alcohol, inhaling city pollutants, and even drinking water from plastic bottles – none of this is good for us. 'All this does is promote the ageing process, but we all have the potential to change this.' It may be hard, but try to keep away from sugary carbohydrates, because they feed chronic inflammation, which is one of the worst enemies of reversing ageing. Now only will you end up putting on weight if you consume them regularly, but your energy and hormonal levels will be affected and this will influence how you look and feel. Whatever your age or state of health, it's never too late to reverse how quickly you are ageing and embrace the energy and vigour of a younger you. Antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, are essential in neutralising free radicals—the culprits behind premature ageing. Integrating a spectrum of colourful fruits and vegetables into your diet provides a potent source of antioxidants. Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fatty fish like salmon and flaxseeds, are vital for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. Omega-3s act as nourishment for your skin, locking in moisture and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen, a structural protein dwindling with age, can be replenished through collagen-rich foods like bone broth and lean protein sources. Lorraine's TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @ lorrainepascaleofficial, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 95,300 views in just 22 hours. Not only this, but it's also amassed 4,464 likes and 79 comments. Social media users were gobsmacked by Lorraine's age and many eagerly raced to the comments to express this. One person gasped: 'Ain't no way you are 52!!!' Another added: '52???? Wow.' A third commented: '52??? NEVER!' Meanwhile, someone else penned: 'Omg you look like 25.' Not only this, but one user shared: 'I'm 26 and you look younger than me!! Amazing skin.' Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club Biggest skincare trends for 2025 Face The Future's Head of Clinic, Kimberley Medd, shared the five skincare trends predicted to take off in 2025. 1. Exosomes Exosomes are the buzzword for 2025, taking advanced skin regeneration to new heights. These micro-messengers signal skin cells to repair damage, boost collagen, and accelerate recovery, and they're a gamechanger for targeting ageing. 2. Streamlined Skincare The age of 12-step routines is fading as consumers shift to more intentional, multi-functional products. Streamlining skincare not only saves time but also reduces the risk of overloading your skin. In 2025, we'll see a rise in hybrid products that combine active ingredients for simplified, effective results. 3. Vegan Collagen Plant-based collagen will dominate the skincare world this year, providing a sustainable, ethical alternative to traditional animal-derived collagen. Expect vegan collagen in everything from moisturisers to serums. 4. The Rise Of AI AI is revolutionising the beauty landscape, making it possible for consumers to get truly personalised skincare solutions. In 2025, we predict a dramatic shift towards AI-powered tools that help people understand their skin on a deeper level. 5. Hair Loss Solutions - Hair loss is an issue that affects more men than we often realise, and it's no longer just something we're talking about behind closed doors. This year, expect to see a continued rise in demand for treatments that not only tackle hair loss but also nurture overall scalp health.
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
'Sephora kids' are using anti-aging creams. A new study says harms aren't just skin deep
If you've recently witnessed a 10-year-old smear their face with an $80 anti-wrinkle cream — either in real life or in any number of "Get Ready With Me" TikTok videos — you're probably already aware of the "Sephora kids" skin-care trend that has young people clamouring for anti-aging products thanks in part to what they see on social media. Now, a new study published in Pediatrics this month, the first peer-reviewed paper of its kind, found that skin-care solutions promoted on TikTok not only offer little to no benefit for children and teens, but they can actually be harmful. And the risks go beyond skin damage (although, there is that, too), the authors note. "It's problematic to show girls devoting this much time and attention to their skin," corresponding author Dr. Molly Hales, a postdoctoral research fellow and dermatologist in the department of dermatology at Chicago's Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, said in a news release. "We're setting a very high standard for these girls. The pursuit of health has become a kind of virtue in our society, but the ideal of 'health' is also very wrapped up in ideals of beauty, thinness and whiteness." The authors in the study analyzed 100 unique videos by content creators between the ages of seven and 18, with an average 1.1 million views each. On average, each regimen featured six products, totalling about $230 Cdn. On the higher end of the scale, some of the girls used more than a dozen products on their faces, the authors said. WATCH | Explaining the 'Sephora kids' trend: They found that only a quarter of the skin-care routines included sunscreen use, the most popular videos contained an average of 11 irritating active ingredients for young skin (such as hydroxy acids) and the content creators often layered multiple active ingredients or the same one over and over in multiple products. In one video, the authors say, one girl applied 10 different products on her face in 10 minutes. The videos also sometimes had racially encoded language that emphasized "lighter brighter skin," the authors noted. The problem with 'Sephora kids' The "Sephora kids" trend, where children as young as eight or nine use anti-aging skin-care products purchased from beauty retailers such as Sephora, started rising in popularity last year — and so have attempts to stop it. In California, for example, Alex Lee, a member of the State Assembly, has been pushing a bill that would ban the sale of anti-aging products that contain potent and harsh ingredients to kids under the age of 18. In May, CBS reported that the bill quietly died without a vote. And last December, Quebec's Order of Chemists published a warning that some skin-care products designed for adults and popularized on social media should be avoided by children because the active ingredients can be harmful to young skin. The products often contain strong active ingredients that young skin isn't properly equipped to handle, said Dr. Julia Carroll, a dermatologist and lecturer at the University of Toronto, who was not involved in the current study. WATCH | Quebec chemists warn about skin-care products and tweens: Younger skin is typically more sensitive, so ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids and retinoids can cause irritation, drying, peeling and dermatitis, Carroll told CBC News. "It can actually sensitize their skin and give them a lifelong allergy to an ingredient," she said. The trend also creates a dependency where kids think they need a 10-step routine, Carroll added, "when really they just need a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer and a sunscreen." Gen Alpha drives sales Canadians spent almost $9 billion US on beauty and personal-care products in 2024. According to Statistics Canada, households started spending "substantially" more on personal care after the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing by 30 per cent in 2023 compared with 2021. Meanwhile, Generation Alpha continues to drive skin-care sales in the United States, according to recent Nielsen data. A global Mintel marketing intelligence report this year noted that this digital-first generation also has spending power projected to reach $5.5 trillion US by 2029, when the oldest of the cohort will be 19 years old. Members of Gen Alpha, who were born roughly between 2010 and 2024, see beauty influencers and their routines as sources of inspiration, the Mintel report says. "However, this acceleration into adult-oriented skin care often results in routines that prioritize appearance over health — a gap that the beauty industry must address," it adds. For now on TikTok, where there are some 18.3 million "Get Ready With Me" videos, Gen Alpha influencers show off their skin-care routines and "hauls" on videos with millions of views and comments. In the Pediatrics journal study, the authors found that these products tend to be marketed heavily to younger consumers. They also expressed concern that it's "nearly impossible" for parents and pediatricians to track exactly what children or adolescents are viewing. "We're seeing kids as young as eight or nine who are using anti-aging ingredients they picked up on TikTok," Carroll said. "You're setting kids up for an unrealistic beauty standard that isn't really appropriate for an eight-year-old, nine-year-old, 10-year-old. They already have usually pretty perfect skin, so to set them down that road that early can be quite harmful." LISTEN | How do cosmetics affect my skin health?:
Medical News Today
a day ago
- Health
- Medical News Today
Tretinoin for wrinkles: Uses, benefits, and more
Tretinoin is a prescription topical medication derived from vitamin A. It is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles and signs of aging. Tretinoin is a potent retinoid. Initially developed in the 1960s for acne treatment, tretinoin can also reduce the appearance of sun damage and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. Unlike cosmetic creams that only affect the skin's surface, tretinoin works at the cellular level to stimulate collagen production and accelerate skin renewal. However, tretinoin use requires careful consideration. The medication can cause initial skin irritation and increase sun sensitivity. It also demands consistent application over several months to achieve optimal results. Understanding how tretinoin works, its benefits and risks, and proper usage techniques is essential for anyone considering this treatment. YakobchukOlena/Getty Images Research shows tretinoin increases collagen production and improves skin thickness, elasticity, and overall appearance. The medication works particularly well for photodamage, including sun-induced wrinkles and age spots. Tretinoin is a prescription topical medication derived from vitamin A . It belongs to a class of compounds called retinoids, which are among the most studied aging support ingredients in dermatology. Healthcare professionals originally developed tretinoin to treat acne, but researchers later discovered its aging support properties. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved tretinoin specifically for treating photodamage and signs of aging. » Learn more about tretinoin. Tretinoin works through several mechanisms to reduce wrinkles: Increased cell turnover: Tretinoin accelerates the natural process of skin cell renewal, helping remove damaged surface cells and revealing newer, healthier skin underneath. Tretinoin accelerates the natural process of skin cell renewal, helping remove damaged surface cells and revealing newer, healthier skin underneath. Collagen stimulation: The medication triggers fibroblasts in the skin to produce more collagen, the protein responsible for skin structure and firmness. The medication triggers fibroblasts in the skin to produce more collagen, the protein responsible for skin structure and firmness. Improved blood flow: It enhances circulation in the skin, delivering more nutrients and oxygen to skin cells. It enhances circulation in the skin, delivering more nutrients and oxygen to skin cells. Normalized keratinization: It helps regulate how skin cells mature and shed, creating smoother, more even skin texture. Tretinoin offers several aging support benefits: reduces fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth improves skin texture and smoothness fades age spots and hyperpigmentation increases skin thickness and firmness enhances overall skin radiance and tone minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores prevents the formation of new wrinkles with continued use Research indicates that initial tretinoin benefits typically become visible after 4 weeks of regular application. skin irritation, discoloration, and peeling dryness and flaking burning or stinging sensation temporary worsening of skin appearance increase in sun sensitivity and higher risk of sunburn potential for severe skin irritation if overused unsafe during pregnancy or nursing may interact with other skin care products Most side effects diminish as the skin adjusts to treatment, typically within a few weeks. Individuals should consider several important factors before starting tretinoin: Medical consultation: A dermatologist should evaluate their skin type and determine the appropriate strength and formulation of tretinoin. Common strengths include 0.1%, 0.08%, and 0.04%. A dermatologist should evaluate their skin type and determine the appropriate strength and formulation of tretinoin. Common strengths include 0.1%, 0.08%, and 0.04%. Sun protection: Daily sunscreen use is essential, as tretinoin increases photosensitivity. Daily sunscreen use is essential, as tretinoin increases photosensitivity. Gradual introduction: Starting with lower concentrations and less frequent application helps minimize irritation. Starting with lower concentrations and less frequent application helps minimize irritation. Product interactions: Tretinoin may not combine well with certain skin care ingredients, including benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids, and some vitamin C formulations. Tretinoin may not combine well with certain skin care ingredients, including benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids, and some vitamin C formulations. Realistic expectations: Results require patience and consistent use over several months. People should always follow their healthcare professional's specific instructions, as they may differ from general guidelines based on individual skin type and treatment goals. However, these are general application principles to maximize benefits while minimizing side effects: Start slowly: Begin with application 2-3 times per week, gradually increasing frequency as skin tolerates treatment Evening application: Apply tretinoin at night, as it breaks down in sunlight Clean skin: Wash face with gentle cleanser and wait 15-20 minutes before applying tretinoin Small amount: Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face Gentle application: Spread evenly, avoiding the eye area and the corners of the nose and mouth Moisturize: Apply a gentle moisturizer 20-30 minutes after tretinoin application Tretinoin comes in several formulations : Creams: Most common form, available in concentrations from 0.025% to 0.1%. Creams work well for people with normal to dry skin. Most common form, available in concentrations from 0.025% to 0.1%. Creams work well for people with normal to dry skin. Gels: Better suited for oily or acne-prone skin. Available in similar concentration ranges as creams. Better suited for oily or acne-prone skin. Available in similar concentration ranges as creams. Solutions: Liquid formulations may cause more irritation, but penetrate the skin effectively. Liquid formulations may cause more irritation, but penetrate the skin effectively. Microsphere formulations: Newer delivery systems that release tretinoin slowly, potentially reducing irritation while maintaining effectiveness. Dermatologists typically start people on lower concentrations (0.025% or 0.05%) and may increase strength based on skin tolerance and response. Tretinoin is an effective prescription treatment for wrinkles and signs of aging. Clinical research shows it can reduce fine lines, improve skin texture, and stimulate collagen production. While tretinoin requires patience and careful use to avoid irritation, most people see significant improvements in skin appearance within several months of consistent use. Working with a dermatologist ensures proper selection of formulation and strength of tretinoin for wrinkles, while minimizing potential side effects.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Hyaluronic Acid Market Projected to Reach USD 18.53 Billion by 2032, Driven by Aesthetic Advancements and Expanding Clinical Applications
SNS Insider Unveils Strategic Insights into the U.S. Hyaluronic Acid Market's Rise—Forecast to Hit USD 6.56 Billion by 2032—Powered by Non-Invasive Aesthetic Trends and Medical Innovations. Austin, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hyaluronic Acid Market Size & Growth Analysis 'According to SNS Insider, the Hyaluronic Acid Market was valued at USD 10.90 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 18.53 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.92% over the forecast period 2025-2032.' The global hyaluronic acid market is witnessing steady expansion, fueled by its broad application across dermatology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and drug delivery systems. HA's unique properties—including biocompatibility, viscoelasticity, and hydrating capabilities—have made it essential for both therapeutic and aesthetic use cases. Consumer awareness of non-invasive cosmetic procedures and the rising demand for anti-aging products continue to drive growth, particularly within the cosmetic a Sample Report of Hyaluronic Acid Market@ In the United States, the hyaluronic acid market was valued at USD 3.95 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to reach USD 6.56 billion by 2032. The strong presence of aesthetic service providers, continued advancements in technology, and growing preference for FDA-approved injectable treatments are supporting this growth. Additionally, increasing utilization of HA in ophthalmic and orthopedic treatments further positions the U.S. as a leading market. Major Players Analysis Listed in this Report are: Zimmer Biomet Smith & Nephew Plc Shiseido Company, Limited Sanofi Salix Pharmaceuticals Maruha Nichiro, Inc. Lifecore Biomedical, Llc LG Life Sciences Ltd (LG Chem.) HTL Biotechnology Genzyme Corporation Galderma Laboratories L.P. Ferring B.V. F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ag Bloomage Biotechnology Corporation Limited Allergan Hyaluronic Acid Market Report Scope Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2024 USD 10.90 billion Market Size by 2032 USD 18.53 billion CAGR (2025–2032) 6.92% U.S. Market 2024 USD 3.95 billion U.S. Forecast by 2032 USD 6.56 billion Base Year 2024 Forecast Period 2025–2032 Key Regional Coverage North America (US, Canada, Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Poland, Turkey, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, Rest of Asia Pacific), Middle East & Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa), Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America) Segment Analysis By Product: Multiple injection doses dominated the market share in 2024 with a share of 78.54%, as they effectively treat chronic joint disorders and aesthetic treatment requiring regular interval doses. Dermatologists and Orthopedic doctors frequently use these products because their effects persist over time, and the patients appear in good health. On the other hand, the best-performing category is single-injection dose, for the convenience and the minimization of exposure to the clinic, continuing to grow at the fastest pace. Such formulations are being adopted in orthopaedics for the management of early-stage osteoarthritis due to rapid onset and enhanced compliance. By Application: The dermal fillers application was the largest market in 2023, as the segment accounted for 42.36% of the total market, due to the substantial consumer base for minimally invasive beauty procedures. The demand for dermal fillers prepared from HA used for facial remodeling, correction of wrinkles, and increase of lip volume has increased, and the reasons can be found in the shorter recovery period and the instant effect of the product. The ophthalmic segment, by contrast, is projected to register the most rapid growth, driven chiefly by the rising prevalence of eye surgeries such as cataract extraction, for which HA is administered during intraocular procedures to prevent injury to vulnerable eye tissues and preserve ocular pressure. By Grade: In terms of grade, pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid led the market in 2023 with a commanding 71.25% share. This is attributed to its application in prescription-based products and its higher regulatory compliance standards. The superior purity and safety of pharmaceutical-grade HA make it suitable for intra-articular injections, ophthalmic surgeries, and drug formulations, driving its widespread adoption across medical disciplines. For A Detailed Briefing Session with Our Team of Analysts, Connect with Us Now@ Hyaluronic Acid Market Segmentation By Product Multiple injection doses Single injection dose By Application Dermal fillers Osteoarthritis Ophthalmic Vesicoureteral reflux Other applications By Grade Cosmetic grade hyaluronic acid Pharmaceutical grade hyaluronic acid By End-Use Hospitals Dermatology clinics Ambulatory surgical centers Other end-users Regional Analysis North America was the dominant region in the hyaluronic acid market in 2023, holding 44.07% market share. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure and aesthetic awareness, along with good disposable income vital for the region. Rigorous regulatory guidelines and high adoption of HA-based dermal fillers further contribute to its dominance. The APAC region is experiencing the maximum growth due to rising disposable income, aging population, and rising trend of cosmetic surgeries in countries like Japan, South Korea, and China. KCEAC PTE LTD 35 In addition, government expenditure on healthcare and the development of medical tourism drive demand in the region. Recent Developments March 2024 – Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, underscored its continued commitment to innovation in medical dermatology and aesthetics at the AAD Annual Meeting in San Diego with 29 abstracts on display at the meeting. May 2024 – Anika Therapeutics introduced Hyaff, a novel HA-based solid product platform for joint and tissue repair. Buy a Single-User PDF of Hyaluronic Acid Market Analysis & Outlook Report 2024-2032@ Table of Contents – Major Key Points 1. Introduction 2. Executive Summary 3. Research Methodology 4. Market Dynamics Impact Analysis 5. Statistical Insights and Trends Reporting 6. Competitive Landscape 7. Hyaluronic Acid Market by Product 8. Hyaluronic Acid Market by Application 9. Hyaluronic Acid Market by Grade 10. Hyaluronic Acid Market by End-Use 11. Regional Analysis 12. Company Profiles 13. Use Cases and Best Practices 14. Conclusion About Us: SNS Insider is one of the leading market research and consulting agencies that dominates the market research industry globally. Our company's aim is to give clients the knowledge they require in order to function in changing circumstances. In order to give you current, accurate market data, consumer insights, and opinions so that you can make decisions with confidence, we employ a variety of techniques, including surveys, video talks, and focus groups around the world. CONTACT: Contact Us: Jagney Dave - Vice President of Client Engagement Phone: +1-315 636 4242 (US) | +44- 20 3290 5010 (UK) Email: info@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Medscape
2 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
The Longevity Paradox: Medicine Meets Silicon Valley
'For without friends, no one would choose to live.' - Aristotle Jeffrey Benabio, MD, MBA Last year, Bryan Johnson, a 46-year-old tech founder, spent 2 million dollars on a regimen that included monthly plasma transfusions from his teenage son. Why? Well, we live in an age when the wealthy inject themselves with young blood, undergo elaborate hormone replacement protocols, get infusions of NAD+, and gobble metformin pill-packs to optimize their biological age. The sell is seductive: Death is evitable. Aging is curable. And with enough money, one can live to be old and healthy. The venture capital bets might be recent, but the yearning is ancient. Herodotus wrote in the 5th century BCE about special waters the long-lived Macrobians drank and bathed in — waters that not only extended life but left their skin "glossy and smooth." Later, Alexander the Great, in his conquests, was said to have been on a quest to find the "Water of Life." He died at 32, which is probably why his product isn't a popular supplement on Amazon today. Lucas Cranach's "The Fountain of Youth," painted in the late Medieval period, shows old and infirm patrons swimming in magical waters and emerging vibrant and young on the other side. Perhaps those waters had rapamycin-producing Streptomyces growing in it — which is a top seller today. The Fountain of Youth by Lucas Cranach d.Ä. Behind the tempting pitch to live forever lies an uncomfortable question: Is this medicine? Should we be testing testosterone on an athletic 23-year-old? Or continuously monitor glucose for a healthy adult with no signs of diabetes? Few doctors would order these for patients, and fewer payors would pick up the tab if they were ordered. This is the disconnect between medicine and entrepreneurs. "The medical system is so patronizing," said a young venture capitalist on a popular startup podcast I was listening to. He was complaining about how doctors resist ordering MRIs or specialized tests because we doctors "think patients are idiots." We do not. He's missing the point that, as a healthy 30-something, medicine is not resourced to help him with wellness requests. Who should pay for his requested MRI? Who would interpret the results? We physicians cannot keep up with the demand for services from those who need us acutely. We've no plan for absorbing a new generation of the "worried well" — better named the "ambitious well" — while also caring for their boomer grandparents. We have a critical shortage of primary care physicians; one that will only worsen as our population ages. The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a shortage of up to 40,400 primary care doctors by 2036. What happens if a portion of that workforce begins dedicating their time to monitoring biomarkers and fine-tuning supplement regimens for patients who are not sick? Healthcare resources — physicians' time, diagnostic equipment, laboratory services — are finite. Every hour we spend with a healthy person seeking optimization is an hour not spent with a patient who is ill. For every primary care physician giving up their practice for a cash-paying longevity clinic, there will be 2000 or so patients who now have to be redistributed onto already burdened practices. When healthy 35-year-olds can get same-day MRIs at boutique practices while my father-in-law waits nearly 2 months for an MRI to characterize a renal mass seen on ultrasound, we've failed. Caring for cash-paying patients who can sit with you for an hour is preferable to the daily grind of 15-minute appointments for patients who actually need an hour of your time. Why shouldn't docs get to choose? For one thing, our training is publicly funded. Taxpayer dollars pick up the tab for more than $20 billion in graduate medical education every year. It seems not quite right that this education doesn't at least in part serve the public who funded it. Despite these concerns, we should acknowledge the import of the longevity movement. Prevention is indeed better than cure. Early intervention can avert costly medical problems. And individuals have a right to pursue health optimizations they value, using their own resources. The question is, how should longevity medicine relate to our broader healthcare system and societal priorities? I think transparency is essential. Longevity interventions should be clearly labeled based on the strength of supporting research. It's the standard we adhere to every day in practice. We also need to be clearer about necessity versus enhancement. Insurance coverage and public resources should prioritize interventions that address or prevent disease. Enhancement services should be demarcated as distinct from necessary medical care. Physicians working in longevity medicine might also acknowledge some societal obligations. Perhaps consider devoting a portion of their practice to underserved populations or contributing to research that benefits the broader public, not just those who can afford boutique services. We also surely must address the structural factors that push physicians toward concierge practices. If doctors are fleeing due to administrative burden and time constraints, improving those would help ensure care remains accessible to all. Lastly, we might recognize that the best determinants of longevity operate at the population not the individual level. Clean air and water, safe neighborhoods, access to nutritious food, and strong social connections likely do more to improve the health and longevity of a population than any supplement or monitoring device. Realizing the promise of longevity medicine requires more than scientific breakthrough; it demands clarity about how these advances should be distributed and what values should guide their application. As physicians we face a choice: Should we allow longevity to become another domain where privilege determines outcomes? Or could we build a system where the benefits of extended healthy life are available to all? Since Herodotus and after nearly 2500 years of searching, we still haven't found the water of life. Or maybe Aristotle actually discovered it just a few years later: gymnastics, moderation in food and drink, and good friends. It's hard to raise a series A with that pitch though.
