Basics About Skin 101

Many people might not think of skin as an organ but it is the largest organ in our bodies. We need skin to maintain the proper body temperature and protect our internal organs from damage. We also get our sense of touch through our skin. It covers our entire body and has pores that let in certain elements and release others. What we put on our skin matters because it is absorbed into our bodies.

Three Layers of Skin

Our skin actually consists of three layers. The subcutaneous layer is the deepest layer of skin, followed by the dermis in the middle then the epidermis on the outside. The skin contains blood vessels, nerve endings and sweat glands as well as hair follicles. The layer we see is the epidermis. Eating healthy foods matters because they have an impact on the health of all our layers of skin. We use natural skin care products to improve the health and appearance of the epidermis.

How the Epidermis Works

New cells are formed at the base of the epidermis. They move toward the top of this layer of skin, which takes up to a month. The older cells on top die and come to the surface, which is what we see. We lose up to 40,000 dead skin cells every minute. In a year, we lose about nine pounds of dead skin cells. A whopping 95 percent of the cells in the epidermis work to create new cells. The remaining 5 percent of the cells in the epidermis product melanin, which gives your skin color. This is also was makes it possible for your skin to get a tan. It is important to wear sunscreen when you are exposed to the sun to protect your skin against damage and possible cancers. You should also wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face from the sun.

Taking Care of Your Epidermis

Cleansing your skin twice daily is important to remove dirt, makeup and dead skin cells. Exfoliating is the ultimate way to slough off dead skin cells and reveal fresher new skin. Many people exfoliate once a day. After you wash your face with warm water, you can close the pores with a refreshing cold rinse. Then dry your skin completely using a soft towel. Never rub your skin, which can cause irritation and fine lines. Use a toner after you wash your face to remove any remaining traces of grime. Now your skin is ready for a moisturizer. The richness of your moisturizer depends on the dryness of your skin and your anti-aging goals. Even people with oily skin need a light moisturizer to maintain the proper balance. To have glowing skin, use a facial mask once a week. Usually a mask remains on your face for 20 minutes or longer. It might be rinsed or peeled away to make your epidermis look its best.

Skin is our most visible organ. Knowing more about your skin and how it works makes it possible to give it the highest level of care and respect.

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