From skin injections to swallowing a camera, here are some things Bryan Johnson has done to age in reverse

Bryan Johnson, a tech mogul turned biohacker, has embarked on an ambitious mission to reverse aging through his “Blueprint,” a meticulously designed regimen blending cutting-edge science, technology, and sheer willpower. He claims to have reduced his biological age by years, supported by epigenetic testing and biomarker tracking. His day-to-day life is a structured experiment in longevity that pushes the boundaries of health optimisation.

Food and pills

Johnson begins his day with a strict routine, starting with sleep. He adheres to a disciplined bedtime, relying on wearable tech to monitor his heart rate variability, sleep cycles, and recovery. This consistency is crucial, as quality sleep plays a significant role in cellular repair and cognitive function. His morning meals are a far cry from traditional breakfasts, featuring a nutrient-packed “Green Giant Smoothie” rich in collagen, creatine, and spermidine. Later, he consumes a “Super Veggie” blend of plant-based ingredients, chosen to minimise inflammation and support metabolic health

Supplements are another cornerstone of his protocol, with Johnson taking over 100 pills daily, each targeting specific areas like stress reduction, energy optimisation, and anti-aging. Ingredients such as ashwagandha, nicotinamide riboside, and spermidine feature prominently, though some experts question the efficacy and necessity of such high quantities. His dietary and supplement strategy is paired with a high-tech exercise regimen designed to balance strength, endurance, and recovery.

Biohacking and mental health

Johnson’s dedication to data is perhaps the most striking aspect of his routine. Through wearable devices, blood tests, and even whole-body imaging, he tracks his biological markers to ensure that every action he takes has a measurable impact. Some of his practices venture into biohacking territory, such as red-light therapy and electrical stimulation, which aim to rejuvenate cells and promote tissue repair. He also prioritises mental health, integrating mindfulness practices and stress-reducing techniques into his day to complement his physical pursuits.
Johnson claims his lifestyle has reduced his biological age, evidenced by metrics like epigenetic tests. However, critics argue that such methods are expensive and not universally accessible. Many of his practices, while fascinating, come with the caveat that the science supporting them is still evolving.

Skin injections and swallowing a camera

Beyond his regimented diet and exercise routine, Bryan Johnson has embraced several unconventional and wacky practices in his quest to reverse aging. For instance, Johnson's skin regimen goes far beyond basic skincare. He undergoes intense and often painful skin rejuvenation treatments, claiming his skin now resembles that of a 20-something. This includes slathering on a variety of scientifically-formulated creams daily and utilising specialised therapies to stimulate collagen production and reverse aging effects.

Recently however, after undergoing fat injections from a donor to restore facial volume lost due to extreme calorie restriction, Johnson suffered a severe allergic reaction, causing his face to swell to the point of temporary blindness. The treatment, part of his “Project Baby Face” initiative to stimulate natural fat growth without fillers, highlighted the importance of facial fat for a youthful appearance despite optimal biomarkers. Though the ordeal resolved in a week, Johnson remains undeterred, reformulating plans for future attempts to combat the effects of aging

By collecting data from regular tests on his organs — such as MRIs, ultrasounds, and even reportedly swallowing a “baby carrot-sized” camera for internal imaging — he adjusts his lifestyle based on the "biological age" of each organ. He refers to this as allowing his organs to be their "best selves".
A surprising result of his extreme protocol has been what he describes as the reversal of graying hair. While not a confirmed or widely replicated outcome, Johnson claims he has stopped needing to dye his hair thanks to his strict diet, supplementation, and overall health strategy.

All in all, Johnson tracks over 1,000 health metrics daily, making him arguably the "most measured man" alive. This includes monitoring biomarkers, oxygen efficiency, heart function, and even metrics as specific as his body's biological age compared to an average 18-year-old's.

Can you try it (without breaking the bank)?

While Johnson’s results are impressive, his methods are often critiqued for their accessibility and scientific backing. With an estimated $2 million annual cost, the Blueprint isn’t feasible for most people. Nevertheless, many of his principles — such as prioritising sleep, eating a nutrient-dense diet, and regular exercise — are scalable and can be adopted by individuals on a budget.

• Eat smarter: Focus on plant-based, nutrient-rich diets.
• Exercise regularly: Even a brisk walk is better than none.
• Prioritise sleep: Invest in a quality mattress or simply stick to a consistent bedtime.
• Embrace mindfulness: Look for free apps that can help get you started.

Bryan Johnson’s experiment has captured attention worldwide, not just for its audacity but also for its implications. His journey raises profound questions about the future of health and longevity. Is this the dawn of a new age in human optimisation, or merely a glimpse into the indulgences of the ultra-wealthy? Time and science will ultimately decide.