Cell regeneration and skin rejuvenation: what it is and why it matters for the skin
What is a cell?
A cell is the structural and functional unit of living organisms. It is the smallest part of living matter that can exist as an independent, functioning unit. Cells can live on their own, like bacteria, or form the structures of larger organisms such as plants, animals, or humans.
Each cell has certain common elements: a cell membrane, which contains all the cell organelles and cytoplasm, and a nucleus, where genetic information is stored. Although a cell’s structure and function may vary depending on its type (e.g., a skin cell differs from a muscle cell), all cells are the basis of life.
What is cell regeneration?
Cell regeneration is a vital process in which old, damaged, or dead cells are replaced with new ones. It is the way the body renews and keeps its tissues and organs healthy and functional.
Regeneration occurs in the cells of all living organisms, but the speed and manner can differ. For example, skin cells renew quickly to protect our body from the external environment. On the other hand, some tissues, such as the brain, have a limited ability to regenerate.
This remarkable cell renewal process allows us to heal wounds, recover from injuries, and maintain youthful-looking skin. However, as we age, cell regeneration slows down, so we need additional support from the outside—this is where cosmetic products come to the rescue.
How does skin cell regeneration work?
All of our skin cells are constantly renewing. This happens as follows: new cells form in the lower layers of the skin and gradually move upward, while cells from the surface layers shed and are replaced by new ones. This process takes about 28 days for young skin, but the rate of cell renewal slows with age.
How do cosmetic products promote cell renewal?
Many cosmetic products are designed to stimulate skin cell renewal. For example:
- Alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA acids): These acidic ingredients remove the skin’s surface layer, helping to reveal new cells and promoting deeper, ongoing skin cell renewal.
- Retinoids: These are vitamin A derivatives that help speed up the cell renewal process, stimulate collagen production, and reduce wrinkles. And what benefits and functions collagen provides for the skin, read here.
- Peptides: Small protein fragments that stimulate collagen production in skin cells, giving the skin a more youthful appearance and elasticity.
Why is this important for youthful-looking skin?
Cell regeneration is the key to healthy, youthful-looking skin. When the skin constantly renews itself, it looks brighter, softer, and smoother. Skincare products that promote cell renewal help combat age-related skin changes such as wrinkles, dryness, and pigmentation spots. Fortunately, there are many effectively regenerating anti-wrinkle products and products for pigmentation spots.
The skin is constantly changing and renewing, but with age this process slows down. However, thanks to scientific research and innovation, today we have products that stimulate skin cell regeneration, helping it maintain its youthful appearance and freshness. By choosing the right products, we can support skin health and beauty for longer. However, it is important to mention that to maintain skin health, you should not only use products suitable for your skin, but also follow a regular skincare routine and maintain healthy habits and lifestyle factors (To learn more about the importance of skincare and what should be followed to achieve healthy skin, read here).