Cell Turnover
The ongoing process by which your skin sheds old surface cells and replaces them with newer ones from beneath.
Cell turnover is the natural cycle your skin follows to renew itself. Deep in the epidermis, fresh skin cells are generated, and over roughly four to six weeks they migrate upward, gradually flattening and eventually shedding from the surface. This process is sometimes called desquamation at the shedding stage. It's not something a product "switches on" — it's already happening. The goal of skincare is simply to support it so it runs smoothly.
In formulations, ingredients like AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), PHAs, and retinoids are often described as encouraging or supporting this cycle. AHAs and BHAs work by loosening the bonds between dead cells on the surface, helping them shed more evenly. Retinoids, on the other hand, influence how quickly new cells are produced deeper down. Concentrations matter: a gentle lactic acid at 5% behaves quite differently from a glycolic peel at 30%, so starting low and building tolerance is a wise approach.
Why does this matter when you're shopping? As we age, the turnover cycle naturally slows, which can leave skin looking dull, feeling rough, or showing uneven tone. Supporting healthy turnover can help skin appear fresher and more even over time. Pair exfoliating actives with a solid moisturiser and consistent SPF, since newer surface cells are more susceptible to UV damage. Avoid stacking multiple exfoliating products in the same routine — more is not better here.
Honest limits: no topical product can force your skin to behave like it did at twenty, and overzealous exfoliation can compromise your skin barrier, leading to dryness, sensitivity, or irritation. If your skin feels tight, stings with products that were previously comfortable, or looks persistently red, ease off and let it recover. People with very sensitive skin, active irritation, or specific skin conditions should consider speaking to a skincare professional before introducing strong actives aimed at turnover. With patience and a gentle approach, supporting your skin's natural renewal is one of the most meaningful things a routine can do.
In formulations, ingredients like AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), PHAs, and retinoids are often described as encouraging or supporting this cycle. AHAs and BHAs work by loosening the bonds between dead cells on the surface, helping them shed more evenly. Retinoids, on the other hand, influence how quickly new cells are produced deeper down. Concentrations matter: a gentle lactic acid at 5% behaves quite differently from a glycolic peel at 30%, so starting low and building tolerance is a wise approach.
Why does this matter when you're shopping? As we age, the turnover cycle naturally slows, which can leave skin looking dull, feeling rough, or showing uneven tone. Supporting healthy turnover can help skin appear fresher and more even over time. Pair exfoliating actives with a solid moisturiser and consistent SPF, since newer surface cells are more susceptible to UV damage. Avoid stacking multiple exfoliating products in the same routine — more is not better here.
Honest limits: no topical product can force your skin to behave like it did at twenty, and overzealous exfoliation can compromise your skin barrier, leading to dryness, sensitivity, or irritation. If your skin feels tight, stings with products that were previously comfortable, or looks persistently red, ease off and let it recover. People with very sensitive skin, active irritation, or specific skin conditions should consider speaking to a skincare professional before introducing strong actives aimed at turnover. With patience and a gentle approach, supporting your skin's natural renewal is one of the most meaningful things a routine can do.
