Zombie cells sound like science fiction - but they’re real and already a part of your skin. To demystify zombie cells, we asked Dr Alexis for an expert explanation as to what they really are, how they affect skin and what your skincare routine can do to support healthier-looking skin over time.
What are zombie cells, really?
Also known as senescent cells, zombie cells are old or damaged cells that stop functioning properly but don’t leave the body. Instead, they linger in the skin and release inflammatory compounds that accelerate aging and impact overall health. In younger skin, the body naturally clears these cells away. But as we age, that process slows down, meaning senescent cells build up over time.
Why your body skin shows zombie cells first
Although we tend to focus on facial aging, the thinner skin on our necks, chests and hands means they show signs of aging even earlier. These areas typically receive more UV exposure and receive less focused sun protection, which results in a faster accumulation of zombie cells. Our new longevity duo utilizes advanced exosome technology, which directly targets cellular senescence and improve skin health.
The inflammaging connection
Zombie cells release inflammatory compounds that accelerate skin aging and also impact overall health. This low-grade inflammation, or inflammaging, has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and dementia, which is why supporting your skin barrier matters for long-term health.
How to help your skin manage senescent cells
Consistency is key for skin longevity, UV exposure is one of the main drivers of skin aging and daily SPF is one of the most effective longevity tools. Hydrating your skin and supporting the skin barrier also helps reduce skin stress. Our formulas combine targeted longevity ingredients, such as exosomes, adaptogenic botanicals and antioxidants, to help defend against environmental aggressors and support smoother, softer and firmer skin.
The Joonbyrd longevity approach
Joonbyrd’s Longevity duo combines advanced skincare science with sensorial body rituals. Big Time Longevity Body Wash contains organic sunflower sprouts to support NAD+ production and skin vitality, while Future Romance Longevity Body Glaze is engineered with grape flower exosome technology. Together, the formulas combat zombie cells and help clear them away.
FAQs
Are zombie cells real or just marketing?
Very real. Though "zombie cells" is admittedly more dramatic than the scientific term, senescent cells. Throughout your life, your cells divide, repair, and eventually reach the end of their natural cycle. When we're young, senescent cells are cleared away, but as we age, more and more of these cells accumulate, secreting biochemical signals that drive chronic inflammation, suppress the immune system and accelerate aging.
Can skincare actually do anything about them?
Yes. Bioactive peptides are at the forefront of celluar senescence. Certain peptide formulations have been shown to reduce the accumulation of senescent cells while also triggering collagen and elastin production and strengthening the skin barrier.
Equally important is supporting the skin's wider environment: adaptogens such as ashwagandha, centella asiatica, and ginseng regulate cortisol and improve microcirculation, which matters because chronic stress is a known driver of cellular senescence. Joonbyrd's ALXmd04™ technology incorporates hardworking actives, prebiotics, antioxidant defense, and adaptogens.
Does fasting help?
There is increasing evidence that dietary restriction - including caloric restriction, fasting, or fasting-mimicking diets can extend both lifespan and healthspan, with one of the mechanisms being the removal of senescent cells, likely by enhancing the immune system's ability to recognize and clear them before these zombie cells accumulate.