What is the Life Span of Skin Cells?
The life span of skin cells in children is about 100 days. In adults, it's about 50 days. Your epidermis (the outer, nonsensitive layer of the skin) is constantly making new skin cells. The new cells are at the bottom of the epidermis, and the oldest cells are at the top. The old cells at the very top layer of your epidermis are actually dead, but that makes them sturdy and strong, which is what you want to protect your body.
It takes two weeks to a month for the new cells to move to the top of your epidermis. As they do this, the oldest cells flake off and are replaced by less old cells. Most people shed about nine pounds of skin cells every year.
Does this Spark an idea?
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Consequences
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As we grow older and our skin cells have shorter life spans, the process of generating new skin cells slows down as cells cease to replicate (make copies of themselves). Skin becomes thinner. Cuts and abrasions take longer to heal. Bruises show more, and skin loses its elasticity. Wrinkles appear and then become deeper.
Ultraviolet light
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Ultraviolet light from the sun damages elastin fibers in the skin, which makes skin lose its elasticity faster. Protect yourself form ultraviolet light by wearing sunblock, staying out of the sun from 10 AM to 2 PM, and wearing a hat and shirt when you go outside. Remember to apply sunblock at least thirty minutes before you go outside. Remember to reapply it according to the instructions on the bottle.
Some medications and some skin exfoliating products can make you more susceptible to sunburn. Make sure to read all the information provided with any medication you are taking or product you are using. -
Smoking
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Smoking increases the appearance of wrinkles by damaging connective tissue. Do not start smoking. If you already smoke, try to quit. There are many methods to help quit smoking, including nicotine patches, nicotine gum, hypnosis, and prescription medications.
Irritants
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Chronic exposure to irritants can damage the skin and make it look older more quickly. Minimize exposure to chronic irritants by avoiding exposure or wearing protective equipment (like masks, safety glasses, goggles, lab coats, and gloves) designed to minimize exposure.
Dehydration
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Dehydration contributes to dry skin and skin damage. It makes your skin less supple. Drink plenty of water. Replace calcium lost through sweating by eating foods high in calcium like skim milk and low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese. Try to drink water throughout the day rather than waiting to drink when you are thirsty. Stay away from drinks that can actually make you dehydrated like coffee, caffeinated soda, tea, and alcoholic beverages.
Hormones
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As estrogen levels decrease, the amount of collagen in the skin decreases, which contributes to skin losing its elasticity. Hormone replacement therapy can stop or slow down the loss of collagen, but the benefits and hazards of hormone replacement therapy should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor.
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