The skin is the largest organ in the human body and functions as a protective barrier against external dangers.
Loss of integrity of this barrier can lead to severe disability and serious consequences.
The mechanism by which wounds heal and heal is very complex and involves physiological events such as:
- inflammation
- coagulation
- tissue remodeling of scar tissue
When a wound occurs, collagen, exposed sub-endothelium and tissue factor set in motion an aiding process attempting to repair the damage. Platelet aggregation is triggered with a mechanism of degranulation and release of chemokines, cells that play a key role in the immune response, to form a clot with successful hemostasis. Coming next are neutrophil granulocytes, cells that specialize in fighting infection with the task of purifying bacteria and creating a better environment for wound healing.
Subsequently, macrophages, immune blood cells, come into action and activate bacterial phagocytosis, engulfing bacteria and other things, completing the cleaning of the wound.
A proliferative phase follows with accumulation of cells and abundant connective tissue in which hyaluronic acid, collagen, elastin and proteoglycans are helpful.
Eventually remodeling occurs with the elimination of immature type III collagen and the formation of mature type I collagen.
Components that help in wound healing are substances that can promote tissue repair and regeneration. Here are some examples
- Collagen. An essential protein for skin structure, collagen helps provide a matrix for new tissue growth.
- Vitamin C. Essential for collagen synthesis, vitamin C also helps fight infections and promotes wound healing.
- Zinc. A mineral that plays a crucial role in tissue repair and immune function.
- Arginine. An amino acid that can stimulate wound healing and improve blood circulation to the injured area.
- Vitamin A. Important for skin regeneration and immune response, vitamin A is essential for wound healing.
- Vitamin E. An antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
- Hyaluronic Acid. Helps maintain moisture in the wound and promotes tissue regeneration.
- Growth Factors. Proteins that stimulate cell growth and tissue regeneration.
- Aloe Vera. Has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that can speed up wound healing.
- Honey. Honey, particularly Manuka honey, has antibacterial properties and can aid in wound healing.
The reports provided on Tiiips website are for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.
Components that can exacerbate wound healing process include various factors that can negatively impact the healing process. Here are some examples
- Infections. The presence of bacteria or other microorganisms can infect the wound and delay healing.
- Diabetes. This condition can reduce blood flow and impair wound healing.
- Cigarette Smoking. Smoking can reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the wound, slowing down the healing process.
- Alcohol. Alcohol abuse can compromise the immune system and delay wound healing.
- Malnutrition. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can hinder proper healing.
- Chronic Stress. Stress can negatively affect the immune system and slow down healing.
- Age. Wound healing tends to slow down with aging due to reduced cell regeneration.
- Dehydration. Poor hydration can impact blood circulation and the body's ability to heal.
Compendium of the most significant studies with reference to properties, intake, effects.
Han G, Ceilley R. Chronic Wound Healing: A Review of Current Management and Treatments. Adv Ther. 2017 Mar;34(3):599-610. doi: 10.1007/s12325-017-0478-y.
Abstract. This article reviews the physiology of wound healing and discusses current approaches to treating a wound.
Velnar T, Bailey T, Smrkolj V. The wound healing process: an overview of the cellular and molecular mechanisms. J Int Med Res. 2009 Sep-Oct;37(5):1528-42. doi: 10.1177/147323000903700531.
Abstract. This review discusses wound classification, the physiology of the wound healing process and the methods used in wound management.
Gantwerker EA, Hom DB. Skin: histology and physiology of wound healing. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2011 Aug;19(3):441-53. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2011.06.009.
Abstract. This article presents the dynamic process of wound healing and the basic tenets to minimize scarring.
Sorg H, Tilkorn DJ, Hager S, Hauser J, Mirastschijski U. Skin Wound Healing: An Update on the Current Knowledge and Concepts. Eur Surg Res. 2017;58(1-2):81-94. doi: 10.1159/000454919.
Abstract. At the end, this update will present 3 topics of high interest in skin wound healing issues, dealing with scarring, tissue engineering, and plasma application.
Martin P, Nunan R. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of repair in acute and chronic wound healing. Br J Dermatol. 2015 Aug;173(2):370-8. doi: 10.1111/bjd.13954.
Abstract. Issues are described and how, through improved dialogue between basic and clinical researchers, we can extend our current knowledge to enable the development of potential new therapeutic treatments.
Kallis PJ, Friedman AJ. Collagen Powder in Wound Healing. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018 Apr 1;17(4):403-408.
Abstract. This article critically reviews the current evidence for collagen powder as an adjunctive therapy for chronic wounds and presents indications, limitations, and principles of use. In general, there is a need for high quality studies and randomized control trials to support its use in clinical practice.