While Hollywood celebrities are increasingly turning to bizarre and extreme cosmetic procedures like vampire facials, salmon sperm facials, and placenta facials in their quest for eternal youth, a tech entrepreneur is making waves with a far more disciplined and surprisingly simple lifestyle approach. Bryan Johnson, the man famously known as the 'anti-ageing millionaire,' claims to have achieved the coveted baby-like skin that everyone desires not through invasive treatments, but via a rigorous and scientific routine.
The Anti-Ageing Millionaire's Astonishing Results
Bryan Johnson, 47, has set an audacious goal for himself: to reverse his biological age. His efforts seem to be paying off remarkably well. He claims to have reduced his epigenetic age by a full five years, making his biological age 42. The metrics for his individual organs are reportedly even more impressive. Johnson states he possesses the heart of a 37-year-old, the skin of a 28-year-old, and the lung capacity of an 18-year-old. While his overall project involves spending millions of dollars, the cornerstone of his skincare philosophy is accessible and straightforward.
The Sun's Double-Edged Sword: Ageing and Cancer
In an Instagram video shared on October 6, Johnson powerfully illustrated the real-world impact of the sun. He reacted to the visible sun damage on an elderly man's skin. The video showed the man's hands, which displayed significant photoaging, while his legs, which were always covered by trousers, remained youthful. "That is the real effect of the sun," Johnson stated, driving the point home.
He clarified that while sunlight is beneficial for health, the timing of exposure is absolutely critical. "Too much of it at the wrong time can also lead to all kinds of photoageing and even cancer," he warned. This warning is backed by science. According to the American Cancer Society, the majority of skin cancers are a direct result of exposure to the UV rays present in natural sunlight. This includes melanoma, a more serious and dangerous form of skin cancer.
Bryan Johnson's Simple Rule for Baby Skin
So, how does Johnson maintain his remarkably youthful and baby-soft skin? His method is deceptively simple and revolves entirely around intelligent sun management. His primary strategy is to be in the sun only during the mornings when the UV index is low, or in the evenings. He shared a specific rule of thumb: "Getting sun exposure when the UV index is below three."
However, he is practical and acknowledges that one cannot always avoid the sun. For situations when you must step out and the UV index is high (above three), he prescribes a clear protocol. "When it's above three, have some kind of protection — a UV umbrella, a hat, a mineral sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection. Try to avoid the chemical-based sunscreens. Please don’t burn. It’s not worth the risks," he advised.
The science behind this advice is solid. Studies have consistently shown that chronic exposure to ultraviolet light is a primary cause of premature ageing, known as photoaging. A 2024 study from the University of Michigan provided deeper insight, revealing that photoaging fragments the type I collagen bundles in the dermis. These collagen bundles are responsible for providing the skin with its strength, support, and elasticity. Their fragmentation leads directly to wrinkles, fragility, and a loss of firmness.
Dr. Frank Wang, MD, the William B. Taylor Endowed Professor of Clinical Dermatology at U-M Medical School, offers a clear solution that aligns with Johnson's approach. "The best way to prevent damage to type I collagen by sunlight is to wear sunscreen consistently — daily if possible, and particularly when spending time outdoors," he said.
Forget chasing elusive baby skin through extreme means; the most effective way to protect your skin from harsh UV rays is to use a good, broad-spectrum sunscreen diligently and consciously limit exposure during peak sunlight hours. This disciplined, simple method, as championed by Bryan Johnson, might just be the real secret to preserving youth.
