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Skin health, what you need to know?

2024-10-20 09:45:00, Shëndeti CNA

Illustrative photo

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and has many important functions.

It constitutes a first barrier for the protection of the body from the outside, such as bacteria, viruses, and mechanical damage.

The skin also helps regulate body temperature.

Skin structure

The skin consists of three main layers:

1. Epidermis: This is the outer layer of the skin, which contains cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin color. The epidermis is responsible for protection from external damage and is also sensitive to factors such as the sun and pollutants.

2. Dermis: This is the middle layer that contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat and seborrhea glands. The dermis is responsible for the elasticity and strength of the skin.

3. Hypodermis (subcutaneous layer): This is the deepest layer, which contains fats and connective tissue, helping to protect internal organs and regulate body temperature.

Skin functions

1. Protection: The skin constitutes a protective barrier for the body, keeping out microbes, chemicals, and physical damage.

2. Temperature regulation: The skin helps to regulate body temperature through sweating and dilation or constriction of blood vessels.

3. Sensation: There are many nerve receptors in the skin that help in the feeling of touch, pain, heat and cold.

4. Desire and Expression: The skin plays an important role in the expression of emotions, such as blushing from a sense of shame or other emotions.

5. Production of Vitamin D: The skin helps synthesize vitamin D when exposed to the sun, which is important for bone health.

Skin health

Skin health is important and is affected by various factors, including:

•Diet: A balanced diet with necessary vitamins and minerals is important for healthy skin.

• Hydration: Drinking enough water is important for maintaining skin hydration.

•Using the right products: Choosing skin products, such as cleansers and moisturizers, helps maintain skin health.

•Sun protection: Using sunscreen helps protect the skin from sun damage and helps prevent skin cancer.

• Avoiding pollution: Avoiding exposure to chemical pollutants and harmful substances is important for skin health.

Common skin problems are varied and can affect individuals of any age. Here are some of the most common problems that occur with the skin:

1. Acne

Acne is one of the most common concerns, especially among teenagers and young adults. They are caused by the blockage of hair follicles by sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria. Acne can appear on the face, back, and chest.

2. Dermatitis

Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that occurs due to irritation, allergies, or environmental factors. Common types of dermatitis include:

•Atopic dermatitis (eczema): A chronic condition that causes dry, red, and itchy skin, often associated with allergies.

• Contact dermatitis: Caused by contact with irritating or allergic substances, such as chemicals or some hives.

3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes the formation of red plaques, covered with white or silver flowers. It usually appears on the fingers, knees, and scalp and can cause an itchy feeling.

4. Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic disease that causes redness of the face, making it look irritated. It can be accompanied by pimples and dilated veins on the face.

5. Dry skin

Dry skin can occur due to environmental factors, nutrition, or as a side effect of certain medications. It causes pulling sensations and can lead to itching and discomfort.

6. White beard (Tinea)

Ringworm is a fungal infection that usually affects the skin and causes white patches. This can happen on the skin and scalp.

7. Tinea Versicolor (Tinea Versicolor)

This is a skin disorder that causes strange and different colored spots and is caused by a reaction to a type of fungus.

8. Skin cancers

Skin cancer is a more serious concern, with common types such as:

•Melanoma: A dangerous form of skin cancer that develops from pigment cells (melanocytes).

•Basal cell carcinoma: A more common and less aggressive type of skin cancer.

•Squamous cell carcinoma: Another common type of cancer that often occurs in sun-exposed areas.

9. Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces more melanin than usual, resulting in dark spots (like sun spots) on the skin.

10. Skin rash (Seborrheic Dermatitis)

This is an inflammation of the skin that occurs in areas rich in sebum glands and is often accompanied by burning and peeling of the scalp, face or body. / CNA