Wound healing tends to decelerate with age. An older soldier wounded on the battlefield has to wait longer for recovery. This phenomenon has been observed since World War I, and multiple factors contribute to this delay. In older adults, the skin becomes thinner, less elastic, and more susceptible to damage. Additionally, the decline in strength of skin cells responsible for producing keratin, crucial for wound healing, is evident with advancing age. Chronic conditions such as diabetes can further impede the healing process, as inadequate blood sugar control may lead to compromised circulation and slower wound repair.

Inadequate consumption of essential nutrients, notably protein, can lead to issues in wound healing. Deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc are also contributors to delayed wound healing. As we age, the number of medications we take tends to increase, and these medications can impede the wound-healing process. The initial stage of wound healing is inflammation, commencing immediately after the wound is incurred and lasting for three to four days. Consequently, the use of medications that diminish inflammation, such as steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, may decelerate wound healing. Additionally, anticoagulants, commonly known as blood thinners, can also have a retarding effect on wound healing. However, if you suspect that a medication is causing your wound to heal poorly, you should not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.

Delayed healing can also be attributed to a slower immune system response compared to its previous efficiency. The process of covering a wound with a new layer of skin involves the migration of surrounding skin cells, a task that necessitates the collaboration of nearby immune cells.

Nonetheless, a 2016 study conducted at Rockefeller University in the U.S. revealed that aging can lead to a breakdown in communication between skin cells and immune cells. The researchers compared 2-month-old mice (equivalent to 20 years old in human years) with 24-month-old mice (equivalent to 70 years old in human years). The study found that in the older mice, it took significantly longer for keratinocytes to migrate to wounds. For migration to occur, keratinocytes must transmit signals to nearby immune cells for assistance, and the keratinocytes in the older mice exhibited impaired signaling. Whether you're a human or a skin cell, communication appears to gain greater significance with age.

To facilitate faster wound healing, begin by delicately washing the wound with soap and tap water. Avoid excessive use of disinfectant to prevent damage to normal cells. The subsequent step involves applying a moist dressing. Contrary to the past practice of allowing wounds to dry until scabs formed due to concerns about moisture causing infection, a moist environment is now recognized as more conducive to wound healing. This environment promotes the migration of surrounding skin cells, aiding in the healing process. It's essential to note that this advice applies primarily to minor wounds. For larger, deeper, or persistent wounds, it is advisable to seek medical attention at your local clinic. Communication is important in this case as well. Always maintain open communication with your doctor throughout the healing process.

Jeong Jae-hoon is a food writer and pharmacist. He covers a variety of subjects, including trends in food, wellness and medications. This column was originally published in Korean in Joongang Ilbo on Dec. 21, 2023. – Ed.