Skin is the largest organ of the body. Additionally, skin performs significant functions to help us sustain overall health, so it’s worth doing our part to protect this frontline defense system.
Skin protects us from dehydration by holding in the body’s fluids. It’s up to us to keep refilling the fluid levels by drinking water and eating foods that contain water – such as fruits and vegetables. Remember, skin supports the hydration of all organs inside the body. Well-hydrated skin also ages more gracefully.
As temperatures rise outside, remember skin acts as the body’s thermostat. When we overheat in the sun, the body compensates by opening the small vessels near the skin’s surface – called capillaries – to help the body cool down faster. Hydration ahead of thirst can also support the skin’s temperature control system in the summer heat.
Skin is a barrier against microscopic organisms that can affect our immune system and possibly make us sick. That is a good reason why it’s important to clean a cut or abrasion to our skin. By cleaning and appropriately bandaging a wound, we are more likely to prevent germs from entering the body. Summer events during which you might want to protect your skin include riding bicycles, gardening and other yard work, or outdoor activities where you might attract insects. Insect bites can be mostly harmless, or they can produce infections. Treat all skin injuries in a way that promotes healing sooner, rather than later.
In all outdoor activities, protect your skin against sunburn. Sunburn – like other burns – requires time to heal and can cause infections if it breaks the skin. Additionally, sunburn increases risk of skin cancer, promotes premature aging, and quickens dehydration. People of all skin types and shades can be affected by sunburn.
The American Academy of Dermatology says, ‘practice safe sun.’ You can do that by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, and applying sunscreen. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended to apply every two hours, or sooner, after swimming or sweating. Sunglasses should have UV protection, and clothing should be lightweight, but unable to see through. The ideal hat should have a wide brim and no holes in it. If you’re wearing flip flops or other open shoes, remember to apply sunscreen to your feet. Apply it to all areas of the body not covered by clothing.
Avoid sunburn but do get safe sunlight exposure a little each day. Sun is required for your skin to make vitamin D, which is necessary to promote healthy bones and other parts of your body.
If you have questions about specific skin conditions, including acne, contact us at (940) 665-1751.
