The skin is the most complex organ in the human body. It should make sense to treat your skin as you would all organs, right?

Epidermis: The skin consists of three layers. The most superficial, the epidermis, has the very important function of protecting the underlying layers. The cells responsible for pigment production are found here, thus the skin color and tone is determined in this superficial layer. This layer consists of 5 individual layers and is about 0.2mm thick in total.

Dermis: The thicker dermal layer, which is located below the epidermis, contains the glands, hair follicles, small blood capillaries and the cells which are responsible for anti-aging. If you accidently cut yourself and the wound bleeds, it would mean that you have cut through the epidermis. This layer’s thickness varies between 1-2mm.

Hypodermis: The third layer of the skin is the subcutaneous fatty layer which lies underneath. This layer contains the main arteries and lymphatic capillaries. The main function of this layer is insulation. It also connects the skin to the rest of the bodily systems.

Your health affects the skin in such a way that it is visible in the skin. For example, imperfections on the jaw area is indicated by a hormonal imbalance whereas the cheek area could indicate a health problem concerned with the lungs. Today’s society is all about appearance and grooming as it brings about the amount of self respect. As a whole, we are far more career driven as in previous centuries and unfortunately appearance sells. It is perceived that in order for one to be accepted as ‘beautiful’ the skin has to be clear, flawless and have a nice overall tone. Very few people are this fortunate.

Skin conditions like sensitivity, uneven skin tone, premature aging and acne are the most common skin concerns in South Africa. The reason for this is the amount of pollution and harmful UV rays our skin has to compete with on a daily basis.

These conditions can be prevented and even improved with the correct care for the skin. The first step is to determine what the primary cause of the problem is. Sensitivity could be caused by an impaired protective layer or even using the incorrect products e.g. men using improper shaving regimes, causing a skin rash or ingrown hairs. Women might be using the incorrect skin care products. Hyper pigmentation could be caused by prolonged UV exposure or hormones whereas Acne has a few factors contributing to the formation thereof.

You don’t necessarily have to go for facials every month, but at least get a professional opinion. Your skin care therapist will look at your skin thoroughly, asking questions about your health and family history until she has come to a conclusion. You can then discuss product usage. Sometimes, if the problem is intrinsic, meaning caused by hormones, genetics or poor nutrition, you have to see a dermatologist or doctor.

One should start taking care of their skin at a young age already as aging and other problems start occurring at a much younger age as before. Years ago there weren’t so many skin problems and the use of skin products were not popular. This is only because the degree of pollution and stress were much less compared to today, thus the skin didn’t have to ‘fight’ to survive.

Please keep in mind that not only the face needs attention. Our neck and hands are where the first signs of aging become visible.

Everyday skin tips
 

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