The skin has two main layers. Within them lie a range of difference cells, nerves, glands and hair follicles. When the skin becomes dry, it wrinkles and ages more quickly. The best way to prevent this is by using a moisturizing body lotion.
The Skin
The outer layer of the skin is called the epidermis. The epidermis itself is made up of several layers. The topmost layer is mostly dead skin cells, which fall off about every two to four weeks. The base of the epidermis is where new skin cells are manufactured. As they approach the surface of the skin they become flattened and die, becoming the new outer layer as the old one is shed. The second major layer, lying below the epidermis, is the dermis. Made of living cells, the dermis contains blood vessels, collagen, elastin fibers, and oil and sweat glands.
Changes in the Skin
As your skin ages it thins, begins to lose its elasticity and becomes more prone to dryness. According to SteadyHealth.com, there are two types of aging. Intrinsic aging is caused by inherited genetic traits; there is very little that can be done about this type of aging. Extrinsic aging however, is another matter. This is the form of aging that is caused by your lifestyle, diet and external environmental factors such as sun and wind exposure.
Dry Skin
Use body lotion to prevent dry skin. Chose one that suits your skin. The first thing to consider is if you have sensitive skin and are prone to allergies. If this is the case, choose a lotion that is unperfumed and contains little or no additives. Unscented, organic lotions are ideal.
Considerations
The next thing to consider is the moisturizing factor. Lotions that contain humectants are beneficial for dry skin because they protect and moisturize skin by drawing moisture from the dermis to the epidermis. If the humidity is high, humectants can also attract water to the skin form the atmosphere. This helps to keep the skin smooth and flexible. Commonly used humectants include glycerine, dimethylaminoethanol or DMAE, niacinamide or B3, and idebenone.
Features
Emollients are ingredients that fill in the gaps between skin cells. They help to replace lipids in the skin and to smooth dry or roughened skin. Emollients may be either water or oil based. Water-based emollients are light and non-greasy. Oil-based emollients may leave a slight residue on the skin.
Member Comments