The invention relates to the discovery that 3-deoxyglucosone (3DG) and other alpha-dicarbonyl sugars associated diseases and disorders are present and produced in the skin. Further, the invention relates to the discovery that amadorase, an enzyme that mediates 3DG synthesis, is also present in the skin. Thus, the invention further relates to methods of inhibiting production and function of 3-deoxyglucosone and other alpha-dicarbonyl sugars in skin thereby treating or prevention various diseases, disorders or conditions. Additionally, the invention relates to treatment of various diseases, disorders or conditions associated with or mediated by oxidative stress since 3DG induces ROS and AGEs, which are associated with the inflammatory response caused by oxidative stress.