January 2023

Deepa Ranpara [MBCHB]

The beauty of our skin

Our skin is the largest working organ of our body and our most important, it's much more than an outer shell that protects us from harmful foreign pathogens, bacteria,viruses, dirt and harmful ultraviolet rays. After all that hard work that it does, it definitely needs to be taken care of and loved. Rejuvenation and support from natural skincare concoctions is just the therapy it needs. One of the most important things to realize is that every human’s skin is different and some products might not really work efficiently on your skin. At times there could be an adverse reaction to some products and this could lead to mild to life threatening situations.This Article is here to help you better understand your skin type and what you should do to keep it in its best state.

The Anatomy of the Skin

The anatomy of the skin is quite simple really, the skin has three main layers. The outer epidermis - a water proof layer that is responsible for our skin tone. Right below the epidermis is the dermis a layer that is formed from a network of deep connective tissue,hair follicles and our sweat glands.Finally the deeper subcutaneous layer of our fat cells,connective tissue and blood vessels.

Different Skin types

The concept of humanity is that every single person is born with a different set of genetics, this in essence proves that everyone's skin type is different but still similar in anatomical structure.Characteristically speaking mainstream skin types are grouped in the following subtypes;

• Normal skin

• Dry skin

• A combination of Normal and dry skin

• Oily skin

• Sensitive skin

The Normal Skin Subtype

“Normal skin” is frequently referred as eudermic. This type of skin is neither too oily or too dry.It is free from skin blemishes. Skin pores are fine and hardly visible.Skin tone is even,clear and smooth. People with this skin type have a radiant complexion combined with good blood circulation and it does not show aggressive factors towards elements and irritants.

The Dry Skin Subtype

Dry skin is a subtype that prominently shows redness, lack of moisture,itchy and flaky skin.This can also sometimes be painful.Environmental factors such as weather can lead to dry skin.Cold weather or dry air can lead to this condition.There are also numerous health conditions that cause skin drying such as diabetes,eczema and dehydration. People with this skin type should use a moisturizer as much as possible.

The Combination of the Normal and Dry Skin Subtype

This type of skin is subject to constant change. It features two or more skin types and the condition of your skin would fluctuate between seasons. This type of skin is characterized by dry flaking skin on the cheeks while excessive shine and oil appears on different areas of the face. Shine is more prevalent on the ‘T - zone of the face’

However, there are environmental factors that come into play. Certain products and lifestyle habits can contribute to combination skin type; using harsh products that contain dry ingredients can trigger your skin to produce excess oil, which can worsen breakouts in the T-Zone while drying out other parts of the face.

The Oily skin subtype

Overproduction of oil on the face results in a consistently glossy or greasy appearance, which is exactly what it means to have oily skin. If you don't treat your oily skin, your pores may grow and become clogged with dead skin cells. With this skin type, blackheads, pimples, and other forms of acne are also typical. Shiny and prone to breakouts are two of oily skin's primary traits.less obvious creases,Clearly visible and enlarged pores,Makeup might be readily removed.

Sensitive skin subtype

Skin that is sensitive is more likely to react to stimuli than skin that is normal won't. It is a thin skin that frequently causes uncomfortable sensations like heat, tightness, redness, or itching.

Characteristics of this type of skin is as follows;

• Rashes and bumps

• Stings or burns

• Itchy skin

• Redness

• acne

Notes

Identification of your skin type is very important as it can change when subjected to different environmental conditions, the weather, age, hormones and stress. Understanding what's good for your skin allows you to use the right products with minimal or no reaction and side effects. Identification is very important for good skin health.