How skin ageing works and how to support healthy cell turnover
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Understanding skin ageing and cell turnover
Ageing is something many of us would love to slow down. This is reflected in how much Australians invest in skincare each year, with billions spent annually in pursuit of healthier, more youthful skin.
While there is no miracle solution to stop ageing entirely, science has taught us a great deal about how skin functions, what accelerates ageing, and how we can better support the skin over time.
What happens as skin ages
Internal and external ageing factors
Ageing is a natural biological process influenced by both internal and external factors.
• Internal factors include genetics, which we cannot control
• External factors include sun exposure, wind, pollution, stress, smoking, alcohol and lifestyle habits
These external influences directly affect how efficiently the skin renews itself.
What is skin cell turnover
Why cell renewal matters
Skin cell turnover is the process by which the skin sheds dead cells and replaces them with new ones.
New cells are formed in the deeper layers of the skin and gradually move upward to the surface. Along the way, the skin creates a protective network of lipids, fatty acids and pH balance that supports barrier health.
As we age, this renewal process slows. Collagen and elastin production decreases, and the skin becomes less efficient at repairing damage and neutralising free radicals.
How cell turnover slows with age
Average skin cell turnover timelines
• Babies - around 14 days
• Teenagers - 14 to 21 days
• 20s - 21 to 28 days
• 30s - 28 to 35 days
• 40s - 30 to 45 days
• 50s - 45 to 55 days
• 60s and beyond - 60 days or more
As turnover slows, dead skin cells build up on the surface, contributing to dullness, uneven texture and visible signs of ageing.
How to support healthy cell turnover
Exfoliation
As cell turnover slows, exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and encourage renewal.
• Exfoliate once or twice per week
• Avoid daily exfoliation, which can damage the skin barrier
Use a gentle option like Gentle Exfoliant to support renewal without irritation.
Nourishment and hydration
A healthy skin barrier supports efficient cell turnover.
• Use moisturisers that match your skin type
• Feed the skin with antioxidants and essential fatty acids
• Maintain hydration to support barrier function
Support the barrier with moisturisers such as Nature's Antioxidant Crème or Intense Hydrating Crème depending on your skin needs.
For overnight nourishment, layer Daily rejuve facial oil as the final step.
Retinol and renewal
Retinol is widely recognised for supporting cell turnover and collagen production.
Important considerations when using retinol:
• Can be sensitising, especially for reactive skin
• Always patch test
• Increases sun sensitivity, making daily sunscreen essential
For barrier support alongside actives, pair night routines with Regenerative Night Serum.
Nutrition and lifestyle
Skin health is closely linked to overall health.
• Eat a nutrient rich, balanced diet
• Support gut health
• Stay hydrated
• Manage stress and prioritise sleep
Healthy skin functions more efficiently when the body is supported internally.
Sunscreen is non negotiable
Daily sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to slow visible skin ageing.
• Protects collagen and elastin
• Prevents pigmentation and UV damage
• Supports long term skin resilience
Even the best skincare routine cannot compensate for unprotected sun exposure.
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