Epidermis
The epidermis is our body’s protective shield. It is the outermost layer of skin. Formed by layers of cells, the epidermis plays an important role besides making us beautiful or handsome.
> Contains squamous and basal cells
> Contains melanin – the pigment that gives us skin color
> Part of the immune system – prevents foreign bodies from entering our body
> Layer that is completely exposed to the elements
The epidermis is over a layer of skin called the dermis. Through natural bodily processes, skin cells continually renew themselves. The dead cells work their way up through the layers and eventually become part of the epidermis. Every 4 or 5 weeks, the skin renews itself. The epidermis actually has 25 to 30 layers of dead skin. In this skin layer, there are no blood vessels.
Environmentally Sound
Once you understand that the epidermis includes a buildup of dead skin cells, the importance of rejuvenating skin care products becomes obvious. Dead skin cells clog the pores, causing skin problems like acne. They also can make your skin look unhealthy if not periodically sloughed off. Chemical peels were invented to speed the sloughing process. By clearing the surface of the skin of dead cells, newer skin is revealed. Newer skin is firmer and healthier looking.
The environment is hard on skin. Exposure to toxins, chemicals, weather and sun can cause many skin problems. These include skin cancer, rapid aging, drying and flaking, eczema and rashes. There are a myriad of skin care products on the market.
> Lotions specially designed for the face, the hands and feet, or the body
> Emollients for deep moisturizing
> Cleansers
> Lubricants
> Special creams and serums like retinol to act as an antioxidant
> Topical ointments and creams for skin problems
> Skin lighteners
Products designed to control skin issues, such as excessive oiliness
Any product that is chosen for care of the skin should have enough active ingredients to have an effect, and the delivery system should penetrate the skin enough to insure the active ingredient reaches its target.
Make No Mistake
Caring for the outer skin layer should be a matter of routine. Because it is a barrier to unwanted toxins and pollutants, puncture of any kind should be treated promptly. But day-to-day care is a matter of proper cleansing and moisturizing. Special attention should be given to the hands and feet, especially in the winter. Dry skin can cause cracks in the skin, which are painful. But it is the face that most people concentrate their efforts on. Caring for your face skin is easy as long as you follow certain basic rules.
> Always use water with your cleanser to cleanse your face
> Follow a cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing regimen faithfully
> Be kind to the skin on your face and don’t scrub it too hard
> Use the right kind of cleansers and moisturizers for your skin type
It is important to spend time on the cleansing process and not be in a rush. The products you buy should be used as directed for best results. If it says to massage the cleanser on in circular motions, then that is exactly what you should do. If it says to leave the cleanser on for at least 3 minutes, removing it sooner may mean you won’t get the full benefit. It takes so little time to do the job right, yet the benefits are for the world to see!