Introduction and study
Nowadays, the skin care has become both; the art and the science as well! The days are no more when it was so simple – superficial procedure to wash the face with any kind of soap and plain water. In a present scenario, basic skin care encompasses an educated agreement of the skin's many functions and how lifestyle habit (both - internal and external) impress it. The skin covers an average of about 19 sq ft and weighs about 7 pounds! Before getting into the basic skin care, one should know the anatomy of the skin in a very glance manner.
The cross section of the skin shows three defined layers. The epidermis is the most outer layer called as the cuticle or protective layer. This is made of tightly packed, scale-like cells that are constantly being shed. The all new cuticle layer of skin gets built every 28 th day. (However, this is supposed to be getting slow down as the age advances). The next layer comes is the dermis layer. It is also popular as 'true skin' since most of the vital functions of the skin are carried out or held here. This layer is composed of the glands that secrete sweating and sebum (oil), the papilla (that produces hairs), nerve-fibers, blood capillaries, lymph nodes and glands and sensory receptors. The last - third layer known as the subcutaneous layer, which is composed of fatter tissues that give the body smoothness and firmness and serves as shock absorbers for the vital organs. Moreover, it stores energy and is effective insulators.
Factors to be kept in mind for basic skin care
Sun Exposure
One should not be exposed much under sunrays (especially at noon when it really hurts). However, exactly opposite to that, tender sunlight (early in the morning) is the best for skin. Hence, avoid extensive sun exposure between 1000 to 1500 hr. Mind reflected light from sands, waters, cements and snows. One should wear a sunscreen that protects from both; UVA and UVB with an SPF of minimum 15. Apply sunscreen lotions at least ½ hour before going in the sun and reapply it hourly while swimming or perspiring. Go for the apparels that are long-sleeved shirts, long-legged pants and a sun-hat. Sunglass helps for protecting the eyes. One should avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.
Smoking
Researches performed at the Medical College of Wisconsin revealed that the women who smoke one pack of cigarettes daily or more have 50 per cent higher chances of developing facial hairs! It is speculated that such condition is because of the effects smoking has on the ovary and/or hormones’ metabolism.
Exercise
Exercises benefit the skin and aid in maintaining a clean, vernal complexion by improving blood circulation, calming the nerve endings and promoting a deeper more restorative sleep. Even the best skin care programs would not be as effective without consisting light and useful exercises.
Rest
In today’s world, there is a busy schedule for everyone; from morning until night work work and work! This ruins-up the mind, body and spirit. It is now proven that proper rest would be the phase wherein body goes under self maintenance. It would be recharged and then a new zeal would be added to each organ. Sleep scientists and researchers opine that sleeplessness contributes to have chronic fatigue, poor work productions, ill humors and dissatisfactions with lives.
Addictions
Avoid alcohol and smoking. They ruin up the life and damage skin cells significantly. The tobacco is narcotic and affect. Recent studies reveal that alcohol consumption for even moderate drinkers (1-2 oz a day) can also drastically damage the liver and can bring cancerous growth anywhere in the body. The skin may become over-dry and then it starts cracking. The skin appears older than the actual age of a person.
Cosmetics and Nourishment
Skin care programs are generally put together with three kinds of products: cleansers, toners and moisturizers. However, extended programs might include eye creams or oils, masks, exfoliates and most probably special deep treatments. Since these products are the groundwork for each skin care program, the quality of the overall therapy depends upon the quality of the ingredients or products used. Generally, herbal products with natural ingredients are in boom. They can be applied or can be consumed for better health of skin. Herbs like Aloe, Butea, Turmeric, Ginger, Indian gooseberry, holy basil are considered to be effective in general skin care. Include more fresh vegetables and fruit juices in order to provide essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.
