The life cycle of your skin

The life cycle of your skin

You may have heard us talking about using products like our Exfoliating Face Mask to remove dead skin cells. However, did you know that skin cells go through a skin cycle? And that these skin cycles can vary with everyone? 

Let’s take a closer look at the life cycle and how it can affect our skin.  

What is a skin cycle? 

New skin cells are formed in the deepest layer of our skin, the stratum basale. These new skin cells work their way up to the surface of the skin (epidermis) and by the time they have reached  the surface, the skin cell has matured and either naturally flakes off or will be removed through exfoliation. 

How long is each skin cycle? 

A skin cycle can vary from person to person. There are certain factors, such age, hormones, stress and gut health that can all have an impact. On average the skin cycle takes 2-3 weeks between the ages of 18-25 increasing to 4 weeks between the ages of 25-40. As we grow older the rate of the skin cycle begins to slow down and by the time you are in the age range 40-50 it will have slowed to around 8 weeks and to 12 weeks by the time you reach your 50’s and 60’s. 

What happens when our skin cycle slows down? 

Dead skin cells gather on the surface of the skin, and this can lead to bacteria becoming trapped in pores causing breakouts. The dead skin cells can also lead to fine lines and wrinkles becoming more pronounced. Using skincare products that help to stimulate cell turnover will ensure new cells can thrive as they make their way to the surface. When the surface of the skin is made up of newer cells, the skin will be soft and radiant. 

Allow time for your products to work 

Your skin won’t be able to bask in the benefits of your skincare products until your skin has been through a few cycles of renewal. This is why it’s important to stick with the same products for a few months, as you will likely not see any benefits until you have been consistently using them for a while.   

Help your skin cycle with a simple ishga skincare routine 

1.Start by removing the dead skin cells and other debris on your skin by using ishga Exfoliating Face Mask. This can be used 1-2 times a week or you can mix a small amount with ishga Active Cleansing Lotion to create a gentle, daily exfoliator. 

  1. Spritz some Hebridean Marine Toner onto your skin to help reset the pH balance.
  2. Apply a small amount of Rejuvenating Eye Balm to the eye area. The formula is lightweight and won’t overload the thinner, more delicate skin of the eye.
  3. Finish by applying ishga Anti-oxidant Marine CreamBalancing Marine Cream or Hydra+ Marine Cream. Each one contains our unique fucus serratus seaweed extract. Fucus serratus has been found to regenerate skin cells, promote natural collagen, and natural hyaluronic acid production in the skin, whilst delivering hydrating properties to lock in moisture.
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