As skin ages naturally, changes in all layers of the skin (epidermis, dermis and subcutis) are noticed. 

Epidermal Changes

At the epidermal layer, the functions of the two most common cell types, keratinocytes and melanocytes, are disrupted.

Normal, healthy skin owes its natural coloration to the synthesis of a normal amount of melanin and to its even transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes. Common occurrences, such as ultraviolet light exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes and genetic predisposition, increase melanin production and can cause darkly pigmented patches to appear on the skin. Dark pigmented lesions due to the hormonal changes of pregnancy, are known as melasma.

Dermal changes

The key cells in the dermis are fibroblasts. They produce collagen fibers, elastic fibers and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). This translates to firm, tight, well hydrated skin. However, environmental exposure and the passage of time can lead to textural changes such as shrinkage of collagen, elastin, and GAGs of the extracellular matrix.

Collagen (responsible for skin strength and resilience) and elastin fibers (responsible for skin elastic properties) degenerate faster than new collagen and elastin are made. Elastin fibers become clumped and less flexible, allowing the external appearance of wrinkles and the loss of skin elasticity. Collagen fibers lose their symmetrical bundled nature, becoming loose and in disarray. As its connective tissue foundation grows weak, the skin becomes loose.

The SkinTx SKIN TREATMENT SYSTEM™ affects the regulation and function of the following:

Regulation of keratinocytes
By using a Retinol, Tretinoin or Tazarotene preparation (the gold standards in skin rejuvenation), that penetrates well with Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Phytic Acid, keratinocyte activity is regulated in order to push fresher cells to the surface faster. This will result in smooth, clear, and tolerant skin, with an effective barrier function that is well hydrated.

Regulation of melanocytes
By using Hydroquinone, the gold standard for bleaching hyperpigmented lesions, the SkinTx SKIN TREATMENT SYSTEM™ regulates the pigmentary system, resulting in an even color and skin tone.

Regulation of fibroblasts

The SkinTx SKIN TREATMENT SYSTEM™ can help stimulate fibroblasts in the dermis to produce:

• New collagen and normal elastin (for increased firmness, tighter skin and fewer wrinkles).
• Hydrated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the extracellular matrix (for increased proper hydration).

This stimulation is needed to keep skin healthy, moist, firm and properly hydrated.

Angiogenesis

It also stimulates angiogenesis for improved circulation.

Skin Tx

The effects of the treatment system on the regulation and function of fibroblasts, keratinocytes and melanocytes result in healthy skin.

The characteristics of healthy skin are:

• Smooth: Soft, compact stratum corneum
• Firm: Dermis rich with collagen and elastin fibers
• Even pigmentation: Melanocytes function properly
• Good hydration: Extracellular matrix is rich with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)
• Free of damage: Absent of scars, large pores, and photodamage
• Functions properly: Normal renewal of keratinocytes, melanocyte and fibroblasts
• Tolerant: Tolerates sun, cold, heat, contact and most products

For a full description of the product line, click the following link to the SkinTx website.