Part 1 - Our skin is a mirror reflecting our internal and external health. When our skin is unhealthy, it manifests various conditions that not only affect our appearance but also signify underlying issues. From acne, eczema and infections to premature aging and skin cancer, the state of our skin speaks volumes about our overall well-being. In this two-part blog post, we'll take a practical look at skin health and some simple steps to avoid unhealthy skin and improve your overall well being.
Surfing Wisdom
While travelling I had the chance to learn how to surf. One of the first surfing lessons taught was about skin care and no, I did not expect that at all. The lesson was simple, unless you want to look 30 years older than you are, you had better use sunscreen and use it properly! The second thing taught was also about skin care, and it was that if you didn’t look after your skin, you had a much higher chance of skin issues, including skin cancer.
Later on, I read that our skin is actually our body's largest organ. Again, I did not expect that. And I read that the skin plays a crucial role in protecting us from external elements, regulating temperature, and even aiding in detoxification. But beyond its physiological functions, healthy skin also contributes significantly to our confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Why Your Skin Health Matters
Protection: Our skin acts as a barrier, shielding our bodies from harmful pollutants, microbes, and UV radiation. A healthy skin barrier prevents pathogens from entering the body and reduces the risk of infections and diseases.
Regulating Body Temperature: When the body becomes overheated, sweat glands secrete perspiration onto the skin's surface, which evaporates and dissipates heat, cooling down the body. Conversely, during cold conditions, blood vessels near the skin constrict to conserve heat, thereby maintaining a stable internal temperature.
Vitamin D Production: Sun exposure triggers a biochemical reaction in the skin that leads to the synthesis of vitamin D. This essential vitamin plays a pivotal role in calcium metabolism, bone health, and immune function.
Body Immunity: The skin houses a complex network of immune cells ready to identify and neutralize foreign invaders, thus contributing to the body's innate immune response. Additionally, the skin produces antimicrobial peptides that help fend off dangerous bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
Perspiration: Sweat glands in the skin get rid of waste products such as urea, ammonia, and lactic acid, aiding in detoxification and maintaining an electrolyte balance within the body. Through perspiration, the skin helps regulate the concentration of various substances in the bloodstream, ensuring optimal body health.
Our skin is a resilient organ capable of remarkable regeneration and repair. However, prolonged neglect and exposure to unhealthy habits can compromise its integrity, leading to various skin conditions and premature ageing. Be sure to check out Part 2 of our blog where we’ll look at the surprising importance of your skin’s microbiome along with some simple skin health tips!
Comments