When Does Skin Renew Itself?

When does skin renew itself?

Our skin becomes more prone to wrinkles, sagging, and dullness as we age. So, when does skin renew itself? Knowing the answer to this question can help you understand the best ways to keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant. So, let's take a look at the process and cycle of skin renewal so you can make sure to stay on top of your skin health!

What is Skin Renewal?

The skin renewal process is the act of replacing old skin cells with new ones. This process keeps the skin healthy, hydrated, and looking youthful. The skin renewal cycle typically happens over a period of around 28 days and comprises several vital steps. These steps include desquamation, mitosis, proliferation, and keratinization.

1. Desquamation

The first step in the cycle is desquamation. This is where the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, begins to break down. This layer acts as a protective barrier, and when it breaks down, it allows the body to rid itself of any dead cells and other debris.

2. Mitosis

Next, the process of mitosis takes place. During this step, newly formed skin cells divide and start to make their way up to the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of skin. This is where they will get the nutrients and moisturisers they need to remain strong and healthy.

3. Proliferation

Once the newly formed cells have reached the top layer of the skin, the proliferation phase begins. During this phase, the cells grow and take on their respective shapes.

4. Keratinisation

Once the cells have reached full growth, they begin to move up and form the epidermis tissue, or the top layer of the skin. At this point, the cells begin to produce keratin, a protein that helps give the skin its strength, elasticity, and moisture.

Once the cells have gone through the entire process of renewal, they will be pushed out of the top layer of skin and replaced by new cells. The whole process typically takes around 28 days to complete.

Does our age impact the skin renewal process?

As we age, our skin renewal process tends to slow down. This means it can take longer for skin cells to renew, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dryness. To keep our skin looking youthful, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to ensure that skin cells are adequately replenished.

Keeping skin renewal on track

So, what are the best ways to ensure that our skin renews itself properly? Here are some ways to help ensure that you are getting the most out of your skin renewal cycles. 

1. Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and debris from the skin's surface, allowing for easier renewal. Use a gentle exfoliant on your skin once or twice a week to help stay on top of your skin renewal cycle. 

2. Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated helps ensure our skin cells remain moisturised and healthy. Regularly using a good moisturiser will help to retain moisture in your skin to avoid dull skin and to ensure supple and youthful skin regardless of your age. 

3. Use sunscreen

Wear your sunscreen daily, even indoors! Sun damage can impede the skin's ability to form new cells, so sunscreen can help protect against this. 

4. Get adequate sleep

This is so underrated and chances are that you’re not getting enough sleep for your health and it may start to show on your skin. Getting adequate sleep helps ensure that skin cells can form and renew properly.

5. Use Anti-Aging products

Anti-aging products contain a wide range of antioxidants and other beneficial ingredients that can help to keep skin cells healthy and maintain a youthful look as you age. It is good to start considering adding on anti-aging products to your skincare routine once you are 25 years old.

Now that you know the answer to "When does skin renew itself?", you can better understand how to keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll be well on your way to having beautiful, youthful and healthy skin!