WHAT IS HEALTHY SKIN?
Skin is the largest organ in our body, its appearance is a reflection or our health so the best thing to do in order to keep it in good conditions is avoid junk food, do not smoke, excercise regularly and drink plenty of water
It is important to have a basic idea of anatomy and the physiological processes which allow the skin to function correctly and to create and maintain good quality of our skin.
The layers of the skin are called epidermis most superficial, dermis and hipodermis the deeper layer. Each part performs specific functions and is responsible for a particularly job in the skin. The level and efficiency of function from these three skin layers will determine the overall quality of the skin.
THE EPIDERMIS
The epidermis is the most superficial and well known layer of the skin. Its main function is to act as a "barrier".It consists of a thin layer made of different types of cells but 95% are "queratinocytes". This part of the skin in constantly renewed and its first function is to protect us by preventing everything from passing into deeper layers. If this layer is not functioning correctly the skin loses its smooth appearance as a consequence of bad keratinisation.
WHERE THE EPIDERMIS AND DERMIS MEET
there are specific cells called melanocytes which produce colour to protect the skin from the sun. This colour is produced in the superficial part of the dermis and migrates as melanosomas. The same amount of melanocytes exist regardless of the colour and tone of the skin but the level of activity differs between skin types. There is increased activity in fototypes 4, 5 or 6. Hyperpigmentation is the result of uncontrolled activity of melanocytes as a consequence of excessive exposure to the sun or hormonal activity such as pregnancy, which results in lentigos, hyperpigmentations or melasma.
THE DERMIS.
The Dermis contains fibroblasts which are important cells in charge of the production of Hyaluronic Acid. This substance is responsible for the Hydratation of the skin and the "plump" appearance as well as the production of Collagen and Elastin, which are the most important proteins in the skin to provide their architecture, structure, and firmness. The level of activity of the fibroblast cells decreases after the age of 35, producing less collagen and elastin which results in sagging and wrinkles.
Good function of the skin results in a healthy appearance, and beauty starts in the skin.