The basics of skin care

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The basics of skin care
Human skin is one of the largest organs in the human body, covering and protecting the underlying multiple layers of ectodermal tissue, muscles, bones, ligaments and other internal organs.

The functions of skin also include barrier and immune function, vitamin D synthesis, thermoregulation and protection from dehydration.

Our skin reflects our basic health and to be healthy and to appear healthy, we have to protect it from external and internal damages. Being the outermost part of the body, our skin has to bear the brunt of the attack of external elements, including weather, dust and dirt and also suffer physical injuries. Regular cleaning, cleansing and moisturizing are the basic requirements to keep it in prime health.

Proper washing and cleansing are necessary to remove dirt, remnants of facial applications and pollutants from our face. Application of moisturizers help in nourishing our epidermis. The moisture lost due to sun exposure and dry winds is replenished. Periodical exfoliation removes the dead outer layer of epidermis, opens up the pores and gives a glowing healthy complexion.

The articles in this segment, cover the essential elements of a basic skin care routine, including daily regimen, dos and don'ts and health tips.

The essential elements of a basic skin care routine

• Basic knowledge of daily routine
• Cleansing
• Toning
• Moisturization
• Exfoliation

Advanced skin care needs

• Nourishment and revitalization
• Sun protection
• Masks
• Cosmetics
• Routine for different tones

Routine for different weather conditions

• Routine for humid weather
• Routine for cold weather
• Routine for hot weather

Routine for all age groups

• Neonates
• Preteens
• Teens
• Twenties and thirties
• Forties
• Fifties and beyond

Basic care of different skin types

• Normal type
• Oily type
• Combination type
• Dry type
• Sensitive type

Basic knowledge of cosmetic products

Homemade preparations

Clinical procedures

Take care - Protect your skin - Do no harm

Skin Lightening Treatment

Dermal conditions and diseases

References: 1.FDA. Cosmetics: Guidance & Regulation; Laws & Regulations. Prohibited & Restricted Ingredients. [website]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD. Updated 26 January 2015. 2.Schwanitz HJ, Riehl U, Schlesinger T, et al. (2003). "Skin care management: educational aspects". Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 76 (5): 374–81. 3.Blume-Peytavi U, Hauser M, Stamatas GN, Pathirana D, Garcia Bartels N (2012). "Skin care practices for newborns and infants: review of the clinical evidence for best practices". Pediatr Dermatol. 29 (1): 1–14. 4.Abbas, S, JW Goldberg, and M Massaro. "Personal Cleanser Technology and Clinical Performance." Dermatologic Therapy 17(2004): 35-42. 5.Nash, Frank, et al. "Maintenance of healthy epidermis: cleansing, moisturization, and ultraviolet protection." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 6(2007): 7-11. 6.Rawlings, AV, et al. "Moisturizer Technology Versus Clinical Performance." Dermatologic Therapy 17(2004): 49-56.

Current topic: Skin care basics.