Skin Facts, Care & Treatments

Skin Facts

Skin is the largest organ in the human body. An average adult has a skin surface area of about 2.0 square meters (21.5 sq. ft.).  Skin is the primary barrier between our bodies and the environment thus providing essential protection against infection and excessive water loss.  Skin also provides other important functions including temperature regulation, insulation, touch sensation and Vitamin D synthesis.  Skin is comprised of 3 primary layers, Epidermis, Dermis and Hypodermis.  The Epidermis is the outermost layer and is comprised of 5 sub-layers.  New cells are generated in the lower layers then gradually move towards the outer layer called the stratum corneum.  As the cells move towards the surface they begin to die and become filled with keratin (a protein). The process is called keratinization and takes about 1 month to complete.  The dead cells at the skin surface are constantly being sloughed off and replaced.  The Dermis lies below the Epidermis and contains nerve endings, blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands and sebaceous glands. The Hypodermis, while not technically part of the skin, is the critical interface that attaches the skin to the underlying muscle and bone.  It also supplies the blood vessels and nerves to the skin. Skin is a very important organ providing several critical functions.  Proper care and nourishment are critical to overall good health.  Help keep your skin healthy with Kaiderma™ Skin Care products.

 

Skin Care and Treatment

Proper skin care begins with protection from damaging external elements such as ultraviolet radiation, wind and dirt.  These elements can permanently damage skin and lead to more serious conditions such as skin cancer. Whenever possible, proper clothing and sunscreen should be used to cover exposed skin.   Next, good hygiene is a critical component of skin care.  Dead cells, constantly being sloughed off, combined with secretions from the sweat and sebaceous glands to form a mixture that promotes bacterial and fungal growth.  If not regularly washed away this can disrupt some of the skin’s functions and lead to skin damage.  Damaged skin is more prone to infection, premature aging and other undesirable cosmetic changes.  Skin should be properly hydrated to help maintain good health and appearance.  An effective moisturizing product should be used regularly on dry skin or when in dry conditions.  Drying agents such as some soaps and chemical products should be avoided, or their use followed by application of a moisturizing agent.  Lastly, skin requires nourishment. Vitamin A, also known as retinoids, helps with the keratinization process, reduce sebum production, and helps reverse photodamage. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps regulate collagen production, lipid processing , and provides photoprotection.  Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative damage and protection against harmful ultraviolet rays. This nourishment can be supplied through proper nutrition and topical application of appropriately formulated products.  Skin is an important organ whose care can assist with overall good health and appearance.