“What you need to know about zombie skin cells, according to dermatologists”

Key points

• Zombie cells are skin cells that stop dividing but remain active and inflammatory.
• Senescent cells can release inflammatory signals that damage nearby healthy cells.
• Accumulation contributes to fine lines, loss of firmness, and uneven tone with age.
• UV exposure, oxidative stress, and aging accelerate formation of zombie skin cells.
• Experts recommend retinoids, sunscreen, and vitamin C to mitigate effects.