November is National Healthy Skin Month, and it’s all about raising awareness for the body’s largest organ. It’s vital that you take care of your skin year-round, so we have some interesting skin facts and tips for keeping it healthy.
The Skin’s Jobs
The skin has a total area of around 20 feet and has many essential functions. It protects us from the elements and dangerous microbes. Our skin also permits the sensitivity of touch, heat, and cold sensations. It helps regulate body temperature and keeps the necessary nutrients inside our body. The skin is made up of three layers:
- Epidermis– Outermost layer of skin that is waterproof and gives us our skin tone.
- Dermis– It is located directly beneath the epidermis and contains tough connective tissue with hair follicles and sweat glands.
- Hypodermis– This deeper layer contains mostly fat and connective tissue.
Numerous skin conditions can affect the skin, and you should take care of them because they can worsen and cause other issues. Pain, infection, social issues, and anxiety are conditions that can develop if skin issues go untreated. If you have skin issues that cause concern or have not gone away with home remedies, it’s time to see your dermatologist. Dermatologists specialize in different skin issues, so they can accurately diagnose and work with you on a treatment plan to help relieve symptoms.
Year-Round Skincare
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) has some tips to keep your skin healthy from head to toe through November and beyond. Here are some highlights:
- Wash your face every day and after exercising.
- Check your skin regularly for skin cancer signs.
- Use petroleum jelly for minor injuries and to moisturize skin and nails.
- Prevent blisters and corns by wearing shoes that fit correctly and trim your nails regularly.
- Protect your skin from the sun by wearing a broad-spectrum sunblock with at least 30 SPF.
- Keep your skin moisturized daily by applying after a bath when the skin is still damp to lock in moisture.
As a locally-owned expert in all your skincare needs, Alamo Heights Dermatology can help people of all ages. Whether you have a persistent skin issue, want to look at your cosmetic options, or need to schedule your annual skin cancer check, we can help. Call us at (210) 255-8447 or fill out our online appointment request form here.
References:
https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/awareness-campaigns/national-healthy-skin-month
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/picture-of-the-skin#1
