SKIN EXPLAINED
by Jennifer DeCarlo | Feb 20, 2016
Skin is the body’s largest organ and one of the most important. In order to achieve optimal skin health, understanding the various skin types and concerns as well as factors that potentially cause the appearance of damage is essential.
UNDERSTANDING SKIN
The skin is the largest organ of the body with multiple layers, structural proteins, and vital components responsible for its health and appearance. The key to optimal skin improvement is understanding this dynamic organ.
SKIN TYPES & CONCERNS
Every skin is different, and the combination of each skin type and particular skin concern presents a unique set of characteristics.
UNDERSTANDING SKIN
The sun is the source of energy that sustains life, but accumulated exposure without proper protection has negative consequences. The main types of rays that damage our skin are UVA and UVB. This damage manifests in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, and discolouration, but the most dangerous consequence is a higher risk of skin cancer.
To adequately shield skin from the sun, sunscreen needs to be a part of every daily skincare routine. Options include physical UV-reflecting ingredients, chemical UV-absorbing ingredients, or a combination of both, but the most important thing to look for on a label is the term “broad spectrum.” This indicates full coverage from the entire spectrum of UVA and UVB radiation, whereas SPF only measures the length of time one is protected from the UVB rays responsible for sunburn.
Research has shown that sunscreen alone may not provide adequate protection from environmental damage. A key finding shows that the average consumer does not apply enough sunscreen, therefore only obtaining up to half the protection stated on the bottle. Second, sunscreens may only block 55%* of the free radicals generated by UV exposure. For broad range protection against all sources of environmental skin aggressors, it’s imperative to use a topical antioxidant in conjunction with a daily sunscreen. SkinCeuticals offers a range of antioxidant products that have been clinically proven to neutralize damaging free radicals induced by UV radiation and pollution.
* Haywood, R., et al, J Invest Dermatol 2006;121:862-868
