Care For Your Skin By Understanding Its Structure
Most of us take our skin for granted
Most of us take our skin for granted. For the vast majority of most peoples' lives, their skin seldom requires attention. causes you no inconvenience and proceeds to perform its vital functions without any intervention from you whatsoever.
However, when things do go wrong with your skin, pain, discomfort and an unsightly appearance can result. It is at these times that you suddenly realise the important role that your skin plays in your general well being.
When faced with an unwanted condition, it is helpful to understand just how your skin performs its functions. This will make instances such as contact dermatitis and dry skin less intimidating and maybe even help to treat them.
Without your skin, your body would not function. It prevents external pathogens from invading and helps your body avoid or recover from injury. Further, your skin is part of the body systems that keep internal body heat at the correct level and monitor the surroundings by sense of touch.
The common perception is that the skin forms a single, unvarying layer over the body. This, in fact, is not so. Factors such as genetic make-up and position on the body are responsible for differences in skin colour, thickness, hairiness and rigidity.
On a broad level, the structure of the skin divides into three main groupings, namely, the epidermis, dermis and subcutis.
The top layer, the epidermis, is actually a combination of 5 different sub-layers. Each sub-layer has its own characteristics and function. However, as a whole, the main function of the epidermis is to produce an on-going supply of new cells to replace the cells that are naturally shed as you go about your normal everyday life. These fledgling cells are sourced from the bottom sub-layer of the epidermis and, over time, gradually make their way up to the top outermost sub-layer.
The central section of your skin is the dermis layer. Here several vital functions are performed. Sweat glands, blood vessels, hair follicles, sebaceous glands and the protein collagen all reside here. The collagen bestows flexibility and durability whilst sweat glands and blood vessels help to maintain correct core body temperature. The sebaceous glands secrete an oily substance, called sebum, that lubricates the skin.
In comparison, the innermost layer, the subcutis or hypodermis, is less varied. Adipose fat tissue and collagen cells, insulating and protecting your body against blows, are the main constituents.
Two skin conditions that are closely associated with the skin's structure, and occur when things go wrong, are contact dermatitis and dry skin.
Contact dermatitis results when irritants cause an adversely reaction, the body's normal defence mechanisms overreacting to an external allergen. Itchiness, red sore patches, peeling and split skin are typical symptoms. The best course of action to take is to identify the allergen and prevent contact either by removing the source or employing a barrier method such as gloves or an effective barrier cream.
Using a barrier cream, that also contains moisturisers, is the best treatment for dry skin. Further, you should try to limit continual water contact and exposure to the offending cleansing products.
Your skin, with correct care and attention, will give you a lifetime of uncomplaining service. By knowing a little about its functions and structure you will be better placed to provide the appropriate care and attention and experience a trouble free, healthy and younger looking skin.
by: Peter Friswell
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