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The skin has seven functions in the body

The skin not only gives us our appearance and shape, it also serves other important functions in the body:

Protection: Through the fat cells in the subcutaneous tissue the skin protects the body against blows and falls. The Stratum Corneum acts as a barrier against bacterial invasion. The Stratum Germinativum produces melanin pigment as a natural protection from ultraviolet light.

Regulation: controls our body temperature so that it maintains our internal heat regardless of environmental climate. It does this through the excretion of sweat from the sudoriferous glands, and the dilation of the blood vessels in the dermis.

Sensation: Because the skin contains so many tactile nerve endings, the brain can be made aware of the stimuli of pain, heat, and cold in any part of the body.

Absorption: The skin is able to absorb some oil or fat-based substances on a topical level, but deeper penetration is confined to either medication or application of a water-based substance by means of galvanic current. Penetration of cosmetic preparations is restricted to the epidermal layer only.

Excretion: the eccrine and apocrine glands excrete perspiration and sweat for temperature regulation.
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Dry, dehydrated skin?

Dry, dehydrated skin?

What can I do about my dry, dehydrated skin?

Dry, dehydrated skin can be a temporary problem ? one you experience only in winter, for example ? or a lifelong concern.

Dry skin, also called xerosis, is a very common problem in modern life, affecting people off all ages, even infants. And scientists agree ? because of a sharp decline in the Stratum corneum lipids (lipids are fats that are essential for the structure and function of living cells), especially the significant drop in ceramides (one of the more important structural components of the lipid barrier), by the time we reach age 40, our skin will almost certainly be dry and/or dehydrated. Continue reading “Dry, dehydrated skin?”

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Exfoliation Benefits

Exfoliation Benefits:

An exfoliant is any agent that removes dead skin cells from the surface Stratum Corneum to reveal the newer smoother skin underneath. The benefits of exfoliation are fairly obvious:
• Removes dull, dry skin
•Smoother, softer skin
•Reduces lines, pigmentation, hyperkeratoris
•Stimulates cell renewal & turnover rates
•Facilitates hydration and absorption of ingredients Continue reading “Exfoliation Benefits”

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Facial 101

Facial 101

Steaming the Skin by the Vaporizer Method
Steaming the skin should be regarded as part of the cleansing process and is a natural way of activating the circulation, thus softening the skin, relaxing and dilating the follicles. It may also induce slight perspiration by stimulating soporiferous glands, which has a cleansing action on the skin and assists in the elimination of waste. The warmth and moisture facilitates the use of the water-soluble cleansing products and leaves the skin hydrated.

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What are the benefits of exfoliation or Acne, Dehydration, Aging, and Pigmentation skin types?

 

 

 

What are the benefits of exfoliation or Acne, Dehydration, Aging, and Pigmentation skin types?

The concept of stimulating the skin by exfoliation is not a new concept.  It is one of the oldest skin treatments developed and over the years different implements and ingredients have been used to exfoliate.

Hydroxy Acids is one of the popular method for exfoliation.  The era of Hydroxy Acids began in the 1990’s when there was a surge of popularity for their beneficial effects on skin, they were actually discovered in the early 1970’s.  When doctors found that certain naturally-occurring nontoxic substances called Alpha Hydroxy Acids, found in edible fruits and vegetables, had profound beneficial effects on the skin.

For Acne Skin: We know that there is an overproduction of sebum and dead cells that binds together in the follicle causing a blockage.  This is retained further because in acne skin, there is less of the enzyme cholesterol sulfatase due to fewer lamellar granules.  It is the lamellar granules that stimulate the enzyme to dissolve the NMF, allowing the cells to detach.  Creating a condition known as Retention Hyperkeratosis.  Hydroxy Acids mimic the enzymes in lamellar granules, dissolve the NMF and allow the cells to detach therefore clearing the congestion in the follicle.  They will also dissolve the desmosome protein linkages causing a burst in skin exfoliation. Continue reading “What are the benefits of exfoliation or Acne, Dehydration, Aging, and Pigmentation skin types?”

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Tips to keep Skin Moisture Hydration

Tips to keep Skin Moisture Hydration
1. Drinking two liters of water daily is vital for a healthy body. Many skin conditions can be improved with increased water intake.
2. Consumption of more than eight alcoholic beverages per week can contribute to skin dryness and bodily dehydration.
3. One’s experiencing flakiness, tightness or obvious dryness should increase their water intake, adjust to a richer moisturizer and use a moisturizing masque at least three times a week.
4. One should use an SPF 15 sunscreen over the face daily to prevent incidental sun damage. A sunblock should be applied to the body if sun exposure is anticipated, and the hands should always be protected by an SPF 15 if they are exposed while driving in sunlight.
5. If one uses sun beds or tans regularly, this may be the cause of significant sun damage.

Oil Secretion
1. Oily shine may indicate overuse of exfoliants, dehydration and/or overactive sebaceous glands. Focus on home care products that can regulate oil production without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
2. For one’s experiencing breakouts, check for comedogenic ingredients in their skin and hair care regimens, as well as their make-up.

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Skin Diseases and Disorders

Skin Diseases and Disorders

 Skin Diseases and DisordersSkin Diseases and Disorders

Herpes Simplex: caused by a rival infection, therefore it is highly contagious. It is characterized by erythema, pustules and vesicles (watery blisters) often grouped in a cluster around the mouth (herpes labialis). It is a recurring disease, and the skin treatment should be postponed until the condition recesses and two weeks after the lesions have disappeared. Can be spread to the fingers (herpes whitlow), eyes (corneal herpes) or genitals.

Impetigo Contagiosa: this is a spreading staphylococcal or streptococcal infection of the skin presenting a thin blister or oozing erosion which grows over several days into a honey colored crust. It is common in children and often spreads from the nostrils, which form a reservoir of bacteria for infection. Scratching and other members of the family are frequently affected. The condition is common during the summer months. In tropical countries sessions may be widespread and severe epidemics occur. It clears rapidly with antibiotic ointment.

Infected Acne: features are seborrhea (giving skin an oily appearance), comedones (blackheads), papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. There are different grades of acne (degrees of severity). A mild acne condition with comedones and one or two papules or pustules can be treated in the skin treatment center. However a more severe acne vulgaris or cystic acne with many comedones, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts may need medical treatment prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist. The Skin Therapist can still treat the inflammation and remove comedones and provide homecare advice.

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