Skin turnover is the continuous process of your skin shedding dead cells and replacing them with new ones. This process is vital for maintaining healthy, youthful skin and ensuring a smooth, even complexion.
How it works:
- New cells are born in the deepest layer of your skin (the basal layer) and gradually move upwards.
- As they travel towards the surface, they mature and eventually die.
- These dead cells form the outermost layer (the stratum corneum) and are shed through exfoliation.
- The entire cycle typically takes about 28 days in young adults.
Factors affecting skin turnover:
- Age: As we age, cell turnover slows down, leading to a buildup of dead cells and a dull, uneven skin tone.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and poor diet can all negatively impact cell turnover.
- Skin conditions: Some skin conditions, like acne, can be affected by abnormal cell turnover.
Improving skin turnover:
- Exfoliate regularly: This helps remove dead cells and encourage new cell growth.
- Use products with retinol or glycolic acid: These ingredients can help boost cell turnover.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to support skin health.
- Protect your skin from the sun: Sun damage can slow down cell turnover.
Skin turnover is an essential part of maintaining healthy skin. By understanding the process and factors that affect it, you can take steps to support healthy cell turnover and keep your skin looking its best.
