How the skin works

Your skin is made up of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. These layers work together and support each other. To learn how skin works you must understand the purpose of each of the following layers:

The epidermis is the outer layer of skin. It contains melanin, which gives your skin color and protects against infections.

The next layer is the dermis, which is where blood vessels are located. It’s also where you find collagen (which supports your epidermis) as well as sweat glands, hair follicles, and nerve endings.

The final and deepest layer of skin is the hypodermis. This layer of skin connects to muscle and bone, and it is made of subcutaneous tissue, which provides insulation and helps control the body’s temperature.

A Little TLC

Although your skin is tough and can withstand a lot of damage, it’s important that you give it all the help you can. When skin is in poor condition, it will have a hard time doing its many jobs. Skin that is not properly nourished, hydrated, and protected may become dry, itchy, painful, and easily damaged.

Every 28 days or so, your skin will regenerate itself. This means that it won’t take long to see dramatic improvements when you start caring for your skin.

However, it’s important to note that some damage may not be healed in just a month’s time. For example, spending too much time in the sun or smoking can permanently damage the collagen you currently have and reduce collagen production.

Collagen supports your skin. When your collagen levels drop, your skin will begin to sag and can form wrinkles. Collagen damage may not be replaced when your skin regenerates.

Proper Skin Care

Although it’s best to start caring for your skin early in life, it’s never too late to start. Your main focus should be keeping your skin hydrated, nourished, and protected.

Hydration involves making sure that you drink enough water, and minimise your intake of fizzy or sugary drinks because they can dehydrate you. It’s also very important to use a daily moisturiser to hydrate your skin after cleansing.

Nourishing your skin means eating right, although some nutrients can be delivered with oils, serums, and moisturisers. Your skin needs beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and antioxidants (from Rooibos and Green Rooibos), amongst other nutrients.

Finally, protecting your skin means staying out of the sun and making sure you’re properly covered when you do go out. In addition to using sunblock, you need to make sure that you’re selecting an SPF that offers broad spectrum (both UVA & UVB like for example Derma Protect SPF 20) protection for your climate.

Knowing how skin works can help you protect and take care of your body. Create a solid skin care routine to handle problems proactively, improve your overall health, and maintain a youthful appearance.