Skin is the visible outer layer of our body that is the key to our overall well being. Skin is what shows and glows when we are happy from within or breaks out and becomes dull when we experience some internal discomforts. It is the outer layering of our body that we tend to take most care of since we need to look good. People spend a lot of money to get the best skin products and skin treatments to make their skin radiant.
There are many factors that affect the skin in many ways. The texture, the elasticity of the skin, and the changes in the skin with age- all these can be divided into:
- Internal factors
- External factors
Internal Factors
The factors include Genetics, Hormones and specific health conditions like PCOS or Diabetes.
Genetics
Whether you have normal, dry or oily skin- it is the genes that determine it. Genetics also determine the biological aging of the skin and the skin texture. Many skin conditions like Dermatitis or Psoriasis or skin sensitivity are also genetic in nature.
Hormones
Hormone and skin changes have a huge impact on skin. You must have noticed people having great skin during their youth and by the time they start aging, the skin loses its luster. Hormonal changes tick off as soon as puberty starts. The rise of hormones in teenagers affects the sebaceous (oil) glands and causes an imbalance in the skin. During pregnancy, a rise in the hormone levels can increase the production of melanin and a form of hyperpigmentation or melasma. During and after menopause, female estrogen levels decline which has the skin losing its moisture.
An imbalance in thyroid hormones causes dry skin, hair fall, and brittle nails whereas high insulin in the body causes the skin to sag and lose its elasticity. Insulin resistance is also responsible for darkening of the skin around the neck and presence of skin tags on the body.
Health conditions
PCOS (Polycystic ovaries syndrome) can affect the skin in many ways. One of the major skin issues is acne and several skin outbreaks if a person is suffering from PCOS. The growth of facial hair is also very common in PCOS. PCOS affects the insulin levels and results in complications like diabetes or heart diseases. This can result in dark patches on your skin. Diabetes can cause a skin problem called diabetic dermopathy which are mostly light brown, scaly patches. Hypothyroidism causes dry skin and thinning of hair.
External Factors
Lifestyle
When the body is subjected to certain lifestyle conditions, it does affect the body internally and the result is shown on the skin externally. A high-stress level can cause irritation in the skin, allergies and wrinkles and lines around the eyes and mouth. Alcohol and smoking have been linked to premature aging of the skin. Smoking destroys Vitamin B and C in the body which is extremely essential for a healthy skin. Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the skin and makes it look flushed.
Exercise is a good way to increase the blood circulation in the body and provide our skin with the much-needed oxygen. Getting enough sleep can rejuvenate the skin cells.
Nutrition
Healthy eating habits which include a lot of fruits, vegetables, and water result in having the best of skin. Whole grains and fish, instead of meat keeps the skin healthy. Limited intake of sweets and dairy is advisable for a healthy skin. It is also important to drink a lot of water, especially for elderly people. Oily and fatty diet results in skin problems like frequent acne, along with an increase in weight which can result in other health issues.
Sun damage
Photoaging or sun damage is the main cause of premature aging of the skin. The harmful rays of the sun breakdowns the important collagen and elastin that keep the skin tight and supple. Deeper lines and wrinkles occur, the texture of the skin becomes rough, thicker and it looks dehydrated and it even results in uneven skin tones.
Harmful products
The skin has a pH balance between 4.7 and 5.75. Use of harsh products like harmful cleansers and moisturizers not only impair the function of the epidermis but also damage the skin structure. Such harsh products that ruin the pH balance of the skin result in dehydration of the skin. Skin peels also damage the skins pH balance. The skin might also become sensitive and hypersensitive. Sensitive skin is susceptible to frequent flare-ups and even diseases like dermatitis. Professionals who are exposed to chemical products, frequent makeups are in regular contact with harmful chemicals which are aggressive on the skin.
A Comprehensive Guide On How To Choose Personal Care Products