Many people take their skin for granted. They don’t realize just how amazing skin really is. In this article, I will try to enlighten you to some of the facts about your skin. I will also offer some tips on how to care for your skin properly.
Skin is the great protector of your body. It covers every single part of you. It acts as a container, holding together everything inside of the body. Skin is renewable, tough, virtually waterproof, stain-resistant, and flexible. It is like a shield, defending your from the ravages of the outside world. It helps protect you from trauma, chemicals, most bacteria, viruses, and ultraviolet light. Skin also acts as a thermoregulator, helping to keep your body at the proper temperature.
The largest organ in the human body is skin. As such, skin weighs an average of about eight pounds, has a coverage of about twenty-two square feet, and has a thickness between 0.5 – 4.0mm. It is made up of three layers, the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. These complex layers are composed of cells, glands, hair follicles, blood vessels, and nerves.
The outermost layer, the epidermis, is constantly renewing itself. It sheds 30,000-40,000 dead cells every day. New cells are made and take about a month to reach the surface. The middle and thickest layer, the dermis, contains nerves, blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat and oil glands. This layer enables you to sense pressure, temperature, and pain, providing you a connection with the outside world. The hypodermis, or subcutaneous layer, is the innermost, base layer. It is mostly made up of fat, which acts as cushion and provides insulation.
Skin can be a great reflector of your internal health and environment. Its’ texture and condition can show what is going on in the inside. Known as the “third kidney”, skin aides the body in removing toxins that the kidneys may not be able to. The proper functioning of urinary and bowel systems decreases the stress on the skin andvremoves the impurities accumulated in the skin because of internal factors. Stress can also have a major impact on the appearance of skin. External factors such as sunlight, dirt, and weather, can also affect how skin looks. It is important to nurture your skin and keep it clean.
Skincare will vary depending on the texture and oiliness of your skin. Also, weather changes can make your skin drier than usual. Regular and proper cleansing will remove impurities and help keep your skin looking its best. Before cleansing, you should wash your hands thoroughly. If you have long hair, it can help to tie it back or put it up. Look for natural and gentle cleansers that work with your skin type. Facial wash should be gently swept on with fingertips in a upward motion from neck to forehead. Rinsing with cold water will close pores and help keep dirt from entering. A good quality moisturizer should be used afterward. This is especially important during the winter when your skin will be its driest.
I hope that this article has informed you of some facts about your skin. It really is a very amazing part of our bodies. Hopefully after reading this, you have a better understanding of how it works and how to care for it.