Why Increasing Cell Turnover is Essential for Glowing Skin

Healthy, glowing skin is achieved by increasing your cell turnover and removing dead skin cells. Now, many of you with sensitive skin are probably nervous. Whenever I talk about any form of exfoliation, the beautiful part about using a chemical exfoliation is that it’s not as scary as it sounds. The term “chemical” simply means that it’s not using a physical form, such as a scrub, to exfoliate the top layer off. These products are designed to work like little Pac-Men, eating away at the glue between your skin cells. This allows the skin to breathe and shed properly. Many skin issues stem from improper shedding, which ultimately comes down to cell turnover.

One key aspect of maintaining youthful and vibrant skin is promoting cell turnover. This natural process is crucial for shedding dead skin cells and revealing the fresh, healthy cells beneath. Today, we'll dive into the importance of cell turnover and explore two powerful ingredients that can help accelerate this process: alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids. I’ll also provide some product recommendations to help you achieve radiant skin.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

What Are AHAs?

Alpha hydroxy acids are naturally occurring acids found in various foods. They are commonly used in skincare products for their exfoliating properties. There are several types of AHAs, each with unique benefits and properties.

Types of AHAs and How They Work

1. Glycolic Acid (My personal favorite for acne prone skin, texture & pore size)

   • Source: Derived from sugar cane.

   • Molecular Size: Smallest AHA molecule, which allows it to penetrate the skin deeply.

   • Benefits: Highly effective at exfoliating the skin, promoting collagen production, and improving skin texture and tone. Ideal for treating fine lines, acne, and hyperpigmentation.

   • Product Recommendations:

   • (Great for beginners) Cleanser: Click here

   • (Most potent of the three)Serum: Click here

   • (Best bang for you buck)Night Time Cream: Click here

2. Lactic Acid (My personal favorite for sensitive dry skin or someone looking for brightening up their complexion)

   • Source: Derived from milk.

   • Molecular Size: Larger than glycolic acid, making it gentler on the skin.

   • Benefits: Hydrates the skin while exfoliating, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

   • Product Recommendations: (on these links use code Katarina20 for 20% off)

   • (Easy on the skin) Cleanser: Click here

   • (All skin type) Toner: Click here

3. Mandelic Acid

   • Source: Derived from bitter almonds.

   • Molecular Size: Larger than both glycolic and lactic acid, resulting in a slower, more gentle exfoliation.

   • Benefits: Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Helps to regulate sebum production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture without causing irritation.

   • Product Recommendations:

   • (A staple for me and a lot of my clients) Cleanser: Click here

   • (Gentle but very effective)Serum: Click here

4. Malic Acid

   • Source: Derived from apples.

   • Molecular Size: Larger than glycolic and lactic acids, but smaller than mandelic acid.

   • Benefits: Combines exfoliating and hydrating properties. Often used in combination with other AHAs to enhance their effectiveness.

   • Product Recommendation: Click Here

   • (contains malic acid along with other AHAs and BHAs)

How Do AHAs Work?

AHAs work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin's surface. This process encourages the shedding of these dead cells, promoting the regeneration of new skin cells. Regular use of AHAs can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin texture, and even out skin tone.

Retinoids

What Are Retinoids?

Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and are considered one of the most effective ingredients in anti-aging skincare. They come in various forms, including retinol, retinaldehyde, and prescription-strength retinoic acid (tretinoin).

How Do Retinoids Work?

Retinoids work by penetrating deep into the skin and accelerating the rate of cell turnover. They stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and help to clear acne. Retinoids can also fade hyperpigmentation and improve overall skin texture.

Product Recommendation:

• Beginner: Skinbetter Overnight Cream

• This product also provides moisture to help counteract dryness associate with traditional retinoid based products and the blend of antioxidant in skin better alpha cream helps neutralize free radicals.

• Advanced: Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream

• Like AlphaRet Overnight Cream, this skincare cream features a unique ingredient that is made up of a retinoid combined with an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), but offers a higher concentration of glycolic acid to enhance textural look and feel of the skin.

Conclusion

Increasing cell turnover is a fundamental aspect of maintaining healthy, youthful skin. By incorporating AHAs and retinoids into your skincare routine, you can effectively promote this process, ensuring your skin stays fresh, radiant, and resilient. Always remember to introduce these ingredients gradually and use sunscreen daily, as your skin can become more sensitive to UV rays during their use.

Discover the transformative power of these ingredients and embrace the journey to your best skin yet!