On average, we naturally shed around 22kg of dead skin cells throughout our lifetime as new cells are made.
What is the role of our skin?
Our skin is the largest organ of our body!
It is responsible for several sensations such as touch, pain and heat, it protects us against infections and from water such as when its raining or when we swim.
It also plays an important role in regulating body temperature as when blood flows near the skin it can release heat and as moisture evaporates from the skin our body temperature reduces as well.
To allow our skin to perform all of these functions for us we need to keep it healthy.
So how do we take care of our skin?
- Protect it from the sun using SPF 50 sunscreen, wearing a hat and sun safe clothing.
- Use moisturiser to prevent skin breakdown.
- Take shorter showers or baths and avoid using hot water.
- Avoid skin products that contain irritating ingredients such as fragrances.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Stay hydrated.
- Limit foods high in sugar, carbohydrates and milk as these can increase breakouts.
- Avoid smoking as this can reduce the strength and elasticity of our skin. `
Which of these steps will you add into your routine to keep your skin healthy?
Regularly check your skin for signs of new, changed or discoloured areas of skin or signs of skin breakdown such as tears or wounds, and visit your trusted healthcare professional with any concerns.
Book an appointment with our massage therapist, chiropractor or naturopath here or call us on 9651 5559.
Find more of our health tips here.
Sources:
Clinical Excellence Commission. 2021. Caring for your skin. https://www.cec.health.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/664640/Caring-for-your-skin.PDF
Health Direct. 2022. Skin. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/skin
The Royal Women’s Hospital. Caring for your skin. https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/staying-well/tips-for-staying-well/caring-for-your-skin