Understanding Your Skin

From Dr. Norma Braun:

The skin, our second largest organ, covers our entire body and is part of the
Integumentary System, which includes the skin, nails, hair, glands, and nerves. It serves several critical functions:
Protection: Shields us from physical and biological threats like toxins, pollutants, sun, and bacteria. Immune cells in the skin defend against bacteria and release histamine in response to allergies.
Excretion: Sweating helps regulate body temperature.
Absorption: Absorbs sunlight to produce Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and anti–inflammatory actions. Skin can also absorb certain medications.
Temperature Regulation: Blood vessels in the skin constrict to retain heat or dilate to release it, promoting sweating to cool the body.
Secretion: Oil from glands at hair follicles lubricates the skin. Age, hormones, and damage affect oil production, with younger people secreting more oil. Blocked glands can cause acne.
Sensation: Nerves in the skin detect cold, heat, and pain, essential for protection and well–being. Goosebumps, caused by muscle contractions around hair follicles, help reduce heat loss and can be triggered by intense emotions.

The skin has six layers and varies in thickness:
Thinnest: Eyelids (0.1 mm)
Thickest: Palms and soles (1.5 mm)

How to Protect Your Skin

Sun Protection: Ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UVB, cause skin damage and cancer. Sunscreens with SPF 30–50 are recommended. Wearing hats and avoiding
peak sun hours (10 am to 1 pm) also helps. Fairer skin requires higher SPF and
more frequent application, especially if swimming or sweating.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water. Apply unscented lotion after showers to maintain skin moisture. Aging and medications may reduce the sense of thirst, so regular sipping is advised.
Diet: Consume foods rich in Vitamin C for skin maintenance and healing.
Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for healing, growth in children, and hormone
production.
Activity: Physical activity increases blood flow to the skin, promoting health.

Persistent skin problems should be evaluated by a primary care physician or
dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This is just a brief introduction
to the marvel of skin!
Understanding Your Skin