A prominent US surgeon has delivered a refreshingly simple take on ageing, cutting through an industry often obsessed with quick fixes. Dr Daniel Barrett, who shares beauty and longevity advice with millions, identifies chronic stress as the single biggest accelerator of visible ageing, while championing quality sleep as the most underrated defence we have.
The Twin Pillars: Stress Acceleration and Sleep Restoration
According to Dr Barrett, long-term stress creates a perfect storm for ageing skin. It is known to increase bodily inflammation, disrupt hormones, and impair the skin's natural repair processes. This aligns with growing scientific research linking sustained stress to dull complexions, fine lines, and a faster breakdown of collagen, the protein that keeps skin plump.
In stark contrast, the most powerful anti-ageing tool isn't found in a clinic or a jar. "The thing that slows ageing most is how our bodies rest and regenerate overnight," Dr Barrett asserts. This advice is backed by science, including a study in the National Library of Medicine which found that sleep-deprived individuals appear less healthy, less attractive, and more tired.
During deep sleep, the body ramps up critical functions like cell repair, collagen production, and blood flow to the skin. Missing out on this restorative phase regularly will inevitably show on your face. Dr Barrett groups sleep with the foundational, everyday habits that yield the most significant long-term benefits.
The Non-Negotiable Daily Basics for Skin Health
Beyond managing stress and prioritising sleep, Dr Barrett emphasises several other essential practices. These form the core of his anti-ageing philosophy:
- Daily Sunscreen Use: UV exposure is a leading cause of premature skin ageing, breaking down collagen and accelerating pigmentation. In countries like Australia, with some of the world's highest UV levels, it's a critical health measure. With around two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, experts describe daily sunscreen as a vital anti-ageing insurance policy.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen delivery to the skin, and accelerates wrinkle formation, particularly around the mouth and eyes.
- Reduce Sugar Intake: Dr Barrett is clear he would cut out as much sugar as possible. High sugar intake contributes to glycation, where sugar molecules bind to collagen and elastin, forming AGEs (advanced glycation end products). This makes skin stiffer, weaker, and less able to repair itself.
- Regular Exercise: A cornerstone habit that supports overall health and circulation.
The Supportive Role of Supplements and Skincare Science
While lifestyle is paramount, Dr Barrett believes certain supplements can play a supportive role, particularly regarding cellular ageing. When asked for his personal 'secret weapon', he highlighted NAD⁺ and its precursor NMN.
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell, acting like a cellular 'battery'. It is crucial for energy production, DNA repair, and regulating inflammation—all vital for resilient skin. Our natural NAD⁺ levels decline with age, reducing cells' energy to repair damage.
Supporting NAD⁺ levels through supplementation is a growing area of longevity science. In skincare, due to the molecule's size and instability, many products use precursor ingredients like NMN, NR, or niacinamide, which the skin can convert into NAD⁺. Advances in formulation are making NAD⁺-focused skincare a key part of the 'healthy ageing' movement, aiming to help skin function more youthfully rather than aggressively turning back the clock.
Dr Barrett's overarching message is one of education over hype. Ageing well isn't about chasing one magic product but consistently nurturing the body with fundamental, science-backed habits.
