Carolina Reis Oliveira: Peptide Myths & Truths, Zombie Cells & The Intersection of Beauty + Longevity

In this insightful episode of The Art of Being Well, I’m joined by Carolina Reis Oliveira, PhD, co-founder and CEO of OneSkin, to delve into the revolutionary science of longevity. Carolina explains how her expertise in stem cells, tissue engineering, and immunology has shaped her approach to aging, leading her to develop innovative molecules like the OS-01 peptide to target aging at its root. We discuss how senescent cells—often called "zombie" cells—impact aging and health, and why reducing them is key to living a healthier, longer life. Tune in to learn about Carolina’s groundbreaking research and the exciting potential of peptides to slow the aging process, rejuvenate your skin, and improve overall wellness.

Fascinated with biology from a young age, Carolina Reis Oliveira, PhD knew she’d have a future in science. A fearless leader with a passion for longevity and living life to the fullest, she embarked on an ambitious goal — to delay the onset of age-related diseases by targeting aging itself. This led her to earn degrees in stem cell biology and tissue engineering, and a doctorate in immunology. Then, determined to translate her academic achievements into real-world impact, Carolina relocated to Silicon Valley on her own, co-founding OneSkin in 2016. As Chief Executive Officer, Carolina and her team spearhead research and development, creating molecules that target cellular aging, including their proprietary OS-01 peptide.

When she’s not discussing science or leading her growing team, you’ll find Carolina perfecting her golf swing, reconnecting with her higher purpose out in nature, and spending time with friends and loved ones, including her family back in Brazil.

A few of my favorite things we cover in this episode: 

• Carolina’s background and what led her to the field of longevity and aging.
• What sparked her interest in the science of aging and its root causes.
• An introduction to stem cells and their role in anti-aging research.
• Understanding the root factors of aging and Carolina’s perspective on accelerated aging in modern life.
• Senescent (zombie) cells: how they contribute to aging, joint pain, brain fog, fatigue, and specifically how they impact skin health.
• Defining peptides and exploring their role in health, biohacking, and longevity.
• Mechanisms of action: How peptides downregulate senescent cells and other processes that impact aging.
• How peptides decrease inflammation, stimulate collagen production, and reduce senescent cells for healthier skin from the inside out.
• The daily routine and timeline required to see the benefits of peptide use in skin health.
• The challenge of delivering peptides into the deeper layers of the skin and how Carolina's team overcame this hurdle.
• Synergistic ingredients: Exploring the entourage effect and complementary ingredients that work with peptides in skincare formulas.
• Skin health from the inside out: Carolina’s take on using injectable, oral, or supplemental peptides for overall wellness and skin health.
• What does a peptide protocol or ritual look like in a daily wellness routine.

Links we talked about in this episode:

• Try OneSkin today at oneskin.co/willcole15 , and use code WILLCOLE15 for 15% off
• Try AG1 and get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3K2 AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase at drinkAG1.com/willcole
• 20% off all IQBAR products. Text ABW to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details
• Get your free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/WILLCOLE
• Visit TRYJOYMODE.COM and use code WILLCOLE at checkout for 20% off
• Use the code WILLCOLE during registration to save $250 dollars off your retreat at ReunionExperience.org

Happy listening and we hope you learned a little bit more on the art of being well!

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In Health,

Dr. Will Cole