What Factors Can Cause Damage To The Skin And How To Protect It From The External Environment?

Skin, especially the face is affected by external environment constantly and other intrinsic factors such as the health of an individual and his/her lifestyle. The damage of the skin is evident as characterized by tightness, dullness, wrinkles, roughness, lost of elasticity as well as becoming red among other signs. Skin protection is therefore very imperative.

The following are factors that cause damage on the skin

1. Sunlight

Exposure of the skin to the Ultra-Violet (UV) rays from the sun damages the skin cells. UV is a significant cause of skin pigmentation. The UV rays also cause changes in the texture of the skin such as thinning and thickening. Additionally, sun rays causes thinning of blood vessels which contribute to bruising by just a minor trauma in the sun-affected areas. The UVs are also major contributors of skin cancer.

2. Air pollution

Dust can block the skin pores and also enhance bacteria increase on the skin. This can cause acne or spots. Unseen chemical contaminants are known to inhibit ability of the skin to repair itself.

3. Climatic changes

Climate changes from unexpected high temperatures to extreme humidity. The skin is capable to cope with the changes in climate though it is affected.

4. Hormonal changes

Hormones such as oestrogen and testosterone may also affect the skin. High levels of Oestrogen can lead to uneven skin pigmentation while low levels make the skin dry and prone to environmental damage. On the other hand, high amounts of testosterone make the skin pores larger and cause facial hair.

5. Age

Aging is natural and therefore individuals need to understand the expected changes so that they can take good care of their skins. Changes that occur as one ages include; loss of skin elasticity, appearance of wrinkles, enlargement of the pores and appearance of lines around the eyes.

Skin Protection

The skin plays a vital role of protecting our bodies and therefore skin protection is very crucial. The following are ways of protecting the skin;

a) Limit exposure to the sun

One way of limiting exposure to the sun is using skin care products that provide protection against Ultraviolet rays. The skin products when appropriately applied can give the skin a fresh and youthful look. Another skin protection method from the sun is using sunscreen when one is outdoors for long hours in sunny days. Covering of the skin by use of long sleeved shirts, trousers wide covering hats can also protect one from direct sunlight. One can also avoid the negative effects of sun by staying indoors or use sun shade when the sun is at high intensity.

b) Treating the skin tenderly

One should cleanse the skin on daily basis to remove dirt, germs, unwanted oils and dead cells. However, the cleansing should be done in a gentle way to avoid further damage. One should washing the skin with warm water and a soft cleanser twice a day. Hot water and long showers should be avoided as they may remove essential oils from the skin. One should avoid strong soaps or detergents which can also remove oils from the skin. After bathing, one should dry the skin gently with a dry skin while ensuring some moisture remains. If the skin is dry, an individual should apply suitable moisturizer.

c) Eating a healthy diet

Healthy diet with a lot of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and whole grains is very essential for skin protection. Diets with plenty of vitamin C and less unhealthy fats and processed starch are known of enhancing a youthful looking skin.

d) Knowing the skin

One should pay attention and seek medical care in case of anomalies on the skin. For instance appearance of abnormal freckles, growths and moles on the skin can be a sign of a serious disease like cancer. One should also consult a dermatologist in case of frequent acne, inflammation, irritations and skin rashes

e) Staying Hydrated

This is vital to skin protection at as it prevents scaly or chapped skin. One should drink a lot of water and use moisturizing lotions or creams

f) Taking Health precautions

Skin protection involves checking what touches the skin. One should avoid sharing personal effects like lip balms and towels. Additionally, one should pay close attention while touching face with fingers or items that have been used by others like telephone receivers.

g) Regular exercises

Exercises help to firm the skin and also enable the skin to heal. They also boost antioxidants responsible for fighting free radicals. This leaves the skin healthier with a young look. Exercises also increase production of collagen thereby increasing skin firmness.

In conclusion, skin protection can be simple but in case of a serious problem, one should consult a doctor.