The largest organ in the human body, the skin, is a protective barrier of the integumentary system that covers around 22 square feet of area. Skin is only a few millimeters thick but is around one-seventh of our overall body weight. The three layers that make up the overall structure of the skin are the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. The epidermis protects the skin and creates new skin cells to replace the dead ones on the surface. The dermis is the thickest layer of the skin and is responsible for touch, fighting infection, and the production of sweat. Collagen is a protein that makes skin cells strong and the protein elastin, keeps skin flexible. The hypodermis part of the skin is made up of fatty tissue to provide insulation and to store energy. Regulation of body temperature is possible through this layer and dehydration is prevented as well. Skin protects the body from microbes and is responsible for the sensations of heat and cold.
Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, Skin Cancer are some of the commonly known diseases. Skin diseases could be caused by bacteria caught in pores, allergen’s, medications, diabetes, UV radiation, Genetics, or due to diseases effecting other internal organs. Skin might appear discolored, patchy, peeling with open lesions, pus filled bumps, scaly or rough when having certain disease. A biopsy or patch test is usually performed to diagnose the underlying cause. Sometime it is treated using antibiotics, antihistamine, steroids, ointments or creams.
You can maintain skin health by drinking plenty of water and plant-based diet. Beauty sleep is also important. Sun protection must be used as necessary. Contact with harsh chemicals should be avoided. Skin conditions arising due to genetics cannot be avoided.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness month in USA and November is the national Healthy Skin Month. About 20% of the US population will develop Skin Cancer. It is due to the photosensitivity of the skin
My References :
https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/awareness-campaigns/national-healthy-skin-month
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21573-skin-diseases
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