Naturally Connected

Licensed Massage Therapist/Licensed Esthetician

Skin Facts

The Functions of Human Skin

The skin is the largest organ of the body. This elastic, protective covering is thinnest on the lips and eyelids and thickest on the palms and soles. Following are the six primary functions of the skin:

Heat regulation

– the skin regulates body temperature by sweating, which is the production of moisture by the sweat glands (suderiforous glands). The evaporation of this moisture enables the body to cool itself.

Absorption

– the epidermis layer of the skin contains an acid mantle layer which limits the amount of substances entering though the skin that affect the body to a minor degree.

Secretion

– the sebaceous glands excrete oil to lubricate and maintain the health of the skin.

Protection

– fat cells provide insulation and protection against trauma to the internal organs. The skin also protects itself from the harmful effects of light and acts as a barrier against the invasion of bacteria.

Excretion

– perspiration is the process by which the sweat glands excrete waste materials.

Sensation

– nerve endings in the skin allow us to feel heat, cold, touch, pleasure, pressure and pain.

 

Skin Conditions

Acne –

Acne is the most common skin condition in humans, affecting nearly 45 million Americans each year. Acne develops where there are more oil glands present, e.g. face, scalp, chest, back and neck. There are many different types of acne and each patient should be treated according to their particular case.

Aging –

Aging of the skin is a result of many different factors that can be broken into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic or uncontrollable aging is chronological and genetic. Facial wrinkling, expression lines and drier, more sensitive skin may be a result of intrinsic aging. The extrinsic or more controllable factors of aging refer to exposure to the sun and/or pollutants which cause a breakdown of the skin’s structure, leading to discoloration, wrinkles, skin growths and even cancer. Many skin scientists believe the extrinsic factors are to blame for 90% of the visible signs of aging. When attempting to correct signs of aging, it is important to use products that not only treat, but also prevent future damage from occurring.

Hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration) –

Hyperpigmentationis the darkening of an area of skin. Causes of hyperpigmentation range from sun damage caused by UV exposure, hormone fluctuations due to pregnancy or menopause, and skin injuries such as acne scarring. Certain skin types can also be more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. It is important to consult with a skin care professional prior to using products to even skin discoloration as high percentages of strong ingredients can cause further irritation and lead to more discoloration.

 

Rosacea

Rosacea is a somewhat misunderstood skin condition. Currently, there is no known cure or cause. Rosacea is generally characterized by persistent redness and/or breakouts on the central areas of the face, commonly affecting the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. Although there is no cure, there are many different methods of controlling rosacea symptoms. There are medical therapies that work well in conjunction with cosmeceuticals and professional treatments to control rosacea symptoms. Consult a physician for a diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

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