Caring for Your Skin

Skin plays a major role in our body's well-being. Properly caring for your skin requires being able to interpret your skin’s needs and understanding it’s functions. Here are some facts to help you understand the importance of maintaining healthy skin!

1) Skin Is the Largest Organ of the Human Body 

Skin’s primary function is to protect your internal organs from damage caused by external factors, including infection.

2) Skin Is Composed of 3 Distinct Layers 

Skin is made up of 3 layers. The outermost layer is called the epidermis, which acts as a waterproof barrier. The second layer is the dermis, which contains hair follicles, sweat glands, and connective tissue. The third layer of the skin is called the hypodermis. The hypodermis contains blood vessels, nerves, and consists mostly of fat which insulates the body.

3) Skin Plays a Vital Role in Regulating Body Temperature 

Skin uses blood vessels located in the hypodermis to regulate body temperature. The blood vessels expand to release heat and constrict to retain heat.

4) Skin Renews Itself Every 28-30 Days 

Our bodies constantly shed old dead skin cells. Our skin sheds approximately 30,000-40,000 skin cells every minute of the day, which adds up to about 9lbs worth of skin a year! New skin cells are formed in the deepest layer of the epidermis and pushed towards the top as we shed.

5) Skin Is Responsible for 15% of Our Body’s Weight 

Our skin is composed of about 1.6 trillion cells, weighing in at an average of 8-9 pounds worth of skin.

Our skin not only protects our bodies from external elements, but it is also responsible for some very important internal functions like regulating body temperature. Although skin has the remarkable ability to renew itself, skin cell turnover slows down as we age and factors like UV exposure, hydration, and infection can be detrimental to the health of your skin and may increase the risk of premature aging. Your skin's condition can also be used to measure your overall health. Skincare is not only important for your physical health, but dedicating time to your skin’s well-being can also benefit your mental health. The first step to healthy skin is navigating what’s best for your skin by evaluating your skin’s needs.