Skin

Your skin is your shell, it protects you within and keeps harmful substances out. The skin is the largest organ in your body, and just like a cell, it acts as a membrane that keeps the bad out and lets the good in.  The National Institute of Health states, “It holds body fluids in, preventing dehydration, and keeps harmful microbes out—without it, we would get infections. Your skin is full of nerve endings that help you feel things like heat, cold, and pain.”  Your skin works hard and rapidly to keep you healthy, so it’s important to keep your skin protected and nourished.

Nurturing

The easiest and most effective way to care for your skin is keeping it clean. Showering and washing your hands keeps bacteria off and prevents you from spreading bacteria from one person to another. After washing and cleaning, you could add a nice moisturizing lotion or cream to lock in nutrients and prevent dry skin and in some cases, a rash. Moisturizers have certain chemicals that help the skin from breaking and drying out. This is highly recommended to prevent a winter rash. Next is to just go outside and feel the sunbeams on your skin. When exposed to the sun, the bones in your body release vitamin D and endorphins. However, too much sun can hurt your skin and may increase the risk of skin cancer. So before going in the sun, just add some sunscreen (preferably SPF 30 or 45) and apply it evenly. And of course, exercise, balanced diet and plenty of sleep are the number one ways to maintain overall health.

Easy Skin Care Tips from the CDC

  • It takes less than five minutes to protect your skin and help prevent diseases:
  • Put on sunscreen with sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher and with both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B (UVA and UVB) protection. Reapply sunscreen after swimming and excessive sweating.
  • Seek shade and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Cover up with clothing and sunglasses.
  • Avoid using tanning beds and sunlamps.
  • Put on insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin to protect from mosquito and tick bites.

 

Sources:

  1. http://www.woundsinternational.com/journal-content/view/the-importance-of-the-skin-barrier-in-managing-periwound-areas
  2. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/kids/healthy_skin.asp
  3. http://psychcentral.com/news/2014/06/21/mouse-study-finds-sun-exposure-releases-endorphins/71511.html
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/family/minutes/tips/protectskin/

The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. Marque Medical is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.