Importance of skin turnover

The phrase ‘skin turnover’ is commonly heard, but many might not be aware of what it actually entails for our skin.

Our skin cells are constantly renewing themselves.

This regeneration process of the skin is what we refer to as ‘skin turnover.’

To maintain beautiful skin, it is crucial for this turnover process to occur normally.

However, factors such as aging, lifestyle disruptions, or incorrect skincare routines can disrupt the cycle of skin turnover.

In essence, skin turnover is a fundamental element in achieving beautiful skin.

In this artical, we will delve into the concept of skin turnover and its significance in skincare.

Turnover mechanism

The turnover process greatly influences the beauty of our skin.

Understanding its mechanism contributes to our knowledge of skin functions, ultimately aiding in achieving and maintaining youthful and beautiful skin.

Let’s first explore the structure and mechanisms of the skin.

The skin comprises three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue.

The epidermis shields the body from external stressors.

The dermis, made up of collagen fibers and elastin, supports the epidermis.

The subcutaneous tissue stores fat and acts as a cushion, protecting the body from external forces and stress.

Turnover period

The turnover cycle varies depending on the body area, influenced by factors such as skin thickness and blood circulation. Generally, the face has an ideal turnover rate of around 28 days. It’s typically estimated that from the basal layer to the granular layer is 14 days, and another 14 days for the shedding of the corneocytes, forming the stratum corneum.

Other areas, like the heels, take longer, reportedly around two to three times that of facial skin.

An excessively slow turnover results in the accumulation of old keratin on the skin’s surface, leading to ‘hyperkeratosis’ or thickening of the stratum corneum. On the other hand, an overly rapid turnover might cause premature cell migration, resulting in an irregular skin barrier.

Consequently, the skin may become dry, lacking the formation of natural moisturizing factors (NMF) and intercellular lipids, making it prone to dryness or sensitivity to external stimuli.

Moreover, the turnover cycle tends to slow down with age. While individual differences exist, it’s suggested that by the age of 40, the turnover cycle could take 40 days or more. The increased visibility of blemishes or delayed healing of skin injuries can be attributed to this slower turnover cycle.

Delayed turnover causing hyperkeratosis can lead to skin issues like dryness and dullness.

Essentially, for maintaining healthy skin, even with age, it’s crucial to regulate and maintain a normal turnover cycle as much as possible.

Causes of disrupted turnover

The key to achieving ‘beautiful skin’ lies in the normalization of the skin turnover process. However, what disrupts this function and cycle? The answer lies within our daily lifestyle habits.

＜Improper Skincare＞

If makeup isn’t thoroughly removed, the accumulation of residual makeup can lead to the retention of corneocytes that should naturally shed, resulting in the thickening of the stratum corneum.

Additionally, vigorous rubbing with a towel is not advisable. The frictional stimulation can prompt the skin to fortify itself by thickening the stratum corneum to enhance its defense.

Over-washing and self-administered peeling are also problematic. Excessive use of harsh cleansing agents or peeling agents can overly remove the stratum corneum, prompting the skin to accelerate turnover to repair the area.

Especially in the case of peeling, it’s crucial to consult a dermatologist or a skincare professional to assess the skin’s condition before proceeding, ensuring the correct approach.

＜Effects of Ultraviolet Rays＞

When exposed to intense ultraviolet rays (UVB), it induces a condition known as sunburn, causing the skin to redden, resembling a mild burn.

Moreover, even with daily exposure to weaker ultraviolet rays (UVA), continued exposure over the long term damages fibroblast cells responsible for the firmness and elasticity of the dermis.

Such damage to the skin is a significant factor disrupting the turnover process.

When cells incur damage, the body accelerates turnover in an attempt to repair the damage. Additionally, to protect the skin from UV rays, the skin thickens the stratum corneum.

Furthermore, melanin regenerated due to UV exposure is naturally shed during turnover. However, if the turnover process is disrupted, the melanin pigment stays in the epidermis, causing it to accumulate as dark spots, commonly known as skin discoloration or ‘age spots.

＜Influence of Lifestyle Habits＞

The major hindrances to normalizing skin turnover are often hidden within our lifestyle habits.

Sleep is not only a time for the brain and body to rest but also a crucial period for skin and internal organ repair. It’s during sleep that growth hormones, essential for skin turnover, are secreted. Hence, lack of sleep disrupts the turnover process.

Furthermore, a well-balanced diet is essential to regulate turnover. Not consuming enough protein, which is fundamental for skin health, can lead to skin irregularities. Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals to effectively absorb protein is equally necessary.

Balanced intake of protein sources like meat, fish, dairy, eggs, along with vegetables, seaweed, and mushrooms is vital.

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption affect blood circulation and metabolic functions, contributing to disruptions in skin turnover. These habits are significant factors promoting skin issues such as skin problems and premature aging.

Methods to Normalize Skin Turnover

You can normalize skin turnover through daily lifestyle habits. Let me introduce some key practices that should be consciously implemented.

＜Proper Facial Cleansing＞

Indeed, proper skincare is a crucial element in balancing skin turnover.

Over-washing several times a day, excessive scrubbing, or using hot water for cleansing can strip away the necessary sebum, essential for protecting the skin and the stratum corneum. Consequently, these habits become significant disruptors of the turnover cycle.

Avoid using facial cleansers with overly strong cleansing properties. Instead, create a rich lather and gently apply it to the skin, ensuring a gentle cleanse. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and, when drying with a towel, gently press it against the skin without rubbing vigorously.

Following cleansing, ensure ample moisturization using toners to hydrate the skin adequately, and then apply emollients like lotion or cream to protect the skin’s surface.

Enhancing the skin’s ability to retain moisture through daily proper skincare practices ultimately contributes to the regulation of skin turnover.

＜UV Protection＞

UV rays are known external factors that damage the skin, disrupting the turnover process. UV damage accounts for about 80% of skin aging, emphasizing the significant impact of UV rays on the skin.

UV radiation affects the skin throughout the year, making it essential to take preventive measures year-round. Applying sunscreen and using protective gear such as hats or umbrellas during intense sunlight hours is advisable.

＜Improving Lifestyle Habits＞

Sleep is particularly important. Ideally, one should aim for at least 6 hours of sleep, securing sufficient rest between 10 PM and 2 AM when growth hormones are more readily released.

Don’t forget that the skin’s rejuvenation occurs during sleep.

Avoiding excessive eating, maintaining a well-balanced diet, and living a stress-free life are essential for regulating skin turnover.

Refrain from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

These small efforts can prevent the decline in the skin turnover cycle and contribute to maintaining beautiful skin for the long term.

Summary

We’ve come to understand the vital role skin turnover plays in leading our skin towards a more beautiful complexion. By being mindful of skincare, lifestyle habits, and UV protection, we aim to normalize skin turnover and achieve radiant, beautiful skin!