1. Your Protective Coating
Skin is your protective coating and is made up of three layers; the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. The dermis is the thickest layer and is found between the epi and hypo dermis. The dermis contains your hair follicles, glands and blood and lymph vessels, which means that it is where sweat, as well as the body's natural oils, are produced.
2. A Well-Oiled Machine
Dermis works to control the moisture of the skin and hair and also helps to regulate body temperature. Sebum, which is secreted from glands within the dermis, is a natural oil that keeps your hair and skin moist and flexible. Everyone produces different amounts of sebum, which is why some people have naturally dryer hair and skin than others. Sweat is produced in different glands also present in the dermis. Sweat it the body's natural air conditioning system, and also works to remove toxins from the body. While many people believe that sweating leads to acne breakouts, the opposite is true if the skin is washed often. Sweat helps to remove oils and dead skin cells from inside the pores which can then be washed off of the epidermis.
3. Where Wrinkles Come From
Not all wrinkles are created equal, in fact there are three distinct classes of wrinkle. Fine lines are caused by the abnormal thickening of the dermis due to improper moister or sun damage. Furrow lines begin in the muscle found below the hypodermis and occur naturally in line with our smiles and facial features. Skin folds are caused when collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis are damaged or destroyed, and should be protected by eating a healthy diet of vitamin and mineral rich fruits and vegetables and avoiding free radicals created by air pollutants, UV light and cigarette smoke.
4. Caring for the Dermis Can Help Slow Aging
Glands within the dermis work to keep your skin hydrated and flexible, which in turn has an anti-aging effect. Routine care can ensure that your dermis works at maximum potential. Use facials or alpha-hydroxy creams occasionally which help to remove dead skin cells and free the pores of build-up, opening the pathways for normal sebum and sweat secretion. Always use mild soap when washing your skin, as harsh chemicals and perfumes can build-up quickly. Additionally, it is important to use as little makeup as possible and wash it away completely before bed to prevent the clogging of pores.
5. Maintaining the Epidermis Can Help Protect the Dermis
Skin cancer begins with dark spots found on the epidermis, or outermost layer of the skin. When treated quickly, treatment is relatively easy and will often leave little or no scarring. However, if skin cancer goes untreated, it quickly furrows down into the dermis and hypodermis, requiring evasive surgical treatment for removal. Protect your dermis and have any abnormal growths or spots on the skin looked at by a doctor as soon as you notice them.
Member Comments