Have you ever wanted to turn back the clock? Step back in time and make better decisions for your skin? Whether you wish you’d followed a more consistent skincare routine in your 20s or had been more aware of sun protection in your youth, most people have a skin regret or two.  

But even if you’ve always been an A+ skincare student, as you age, your skin not only starts to lose elasticity, but it also can have an increase in ‘zombie cells’, affecting how your skin looks and responds to skincare.     

What Is The Zombie Cell?   

Senescent or ‘zombie cells’ are what start to happen as your cells stop growing but continue releasing inflammatory and tissue-degrading molecules1. These zombie cells degrade collagen production and can cause visual signs of ageing.  

The Skincare Newbie Formulated To Help   

According to Olay’s new research, there are three key skincare ingredients that can work to support your skin throughout this senescent process.  

Firstly, PHCA or p-coumaric acid: This breakthrough ingredient has been found in a recent study to reduce the occurrence of zombie cells, which can lead to an improvement in pores and fine lines.   

Secondly, bakuchiol: This plant-based, retinol-like alternative offers the same skin-supporting benefits without the UV sensitivity. This makes it stable enough to include in both your morning and nightly skincare routine.  

And finally, collagen peptides. As your collagen production slows throughout the ageing process, opting for skincare products that offer a hydrating collagen mix is essential.   

Olay Ultra Firming Serum  

10 years in the making, the Olay Ultra Firming Serum ($69.99 at Chemist Warehouse) has been designed to help visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines, firm-up skin, reduce the visible size of pores, smooth skin texture and even improve skin hydration. If all that isn’t enough, it’s also suitable for all skin types – as it comes with the dermatologically tested seal of approval.   

Plus, the serum promises the lifted and firmed skin results in just 28 days. Yes, in just one month, you could be seeing the benefits of adding this lightweight, nourishing serum into your daily skincare routine.   

Rewinding The Clock   

Even though rewinding the clock might feel like the perfect answer to all of your skin concerns, the best approach is to diligently apply your skincare routine while embracing the mindset of ageing gracefully. Because at the end of the day, everyone’s skin shows a different story. So, as much as we’re all for a power-packed routine designed to help you look and feel your best, remember to be kind to yourself.  

1 https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/health-and-zombie-cells-in-aging/ 

Emma Allcock

Content Producer

Emma Allcock began her career in the world of fashion and beauty in 2015, interning for various PR fashion houses. Naturally her love for style soon extended to beauty, and Emma landed firmly in the beauty and wellness world thanks to an internship-turned-role at local Australian fragrance brand Maison Blanche. One thing that remained consistent whether unpacking accessories or creating social content? Her commitment to an always-perfect manicure. Luckily, she’s since turned her talents to helping her readers achieve the same, writing about all things beauty and wellness. Emma is now a Content Producer for Marie Claire, with her words and recommendations also appearing across BEAUTYcrew, ELLE, beautyheaven and Girlfriend. Emma loves the process of diving deep into the world of testing (and writing) about everything from haircare to fragrance. When she’s not slathering her skin in something new, she’s going for an early morning stroll to catch a stunning sunrise (coffee in hand, of course), because life’s all about that wellness balance after all.

Sign up for our newsletter

Want 15% off at Adore Beauty? Sign up to the latest news at Marie Claire.

By joining, you agree to our Privacy Policy & Terms of Use

About your privacy

Are Media Pty Limited collects your personal information through this site to process registrations, send out newsletters, communicate offers, discounts, competitions, or surveys, and to provide you with targeted advertising based on your online activities. Our Privacy Policy contains information on how you can access or correct your personal information, which entities we may disclose your personal information to (including overseas recipients), how to opt out of targeted advertising, and how to lodge a complaint.