The skin is a complex organ consisting of. The main properties of the skin. The vascular system of the skin

28.09.2019

Hello dear readers. We talk so much about face masks and various skin care products that today I wanted to talk about the structure, renewal, respiration and nutrition of our skin. I think this information will be very interesting to you. Our body is made up of biological tissues. They form the skeleton, muscles, all organs, nerve fibers, skin, and so on. By the way, the latter (skin) protects them all from external negative influences. It is a malfunction of soft tissue (or rather, a combination of several of them at once, because it consists of three main layers). The skin is designed to maintain the body's thermal balance at the proper level, to protect it from the "invasion" of foreign elements, the harmful effects of direct sunlight, and so on. Among other things, it is the largest organ in the human body in terms of area.

Without skin, the body would not be able to maintain its vital functions for even one day. It has a number of extremely important functions that ensure the stable operation of all organ systems.

From how well and how quickly the skin is renewed, one can draw conclusions about its condition and the health of the human body as a whole.

Skin: its structure and main functions

It consists of 3 fundamental layers: epidermis (upper), dermis (middle) and, accordingly, hypodermis (lower). The epidermis is covered with dead, keratinized cells, forming, in fact, the uppermost, horny, layer.

Epidermis

It is formed by epithelial cells, tightly adjacent to each other, which are located in several layers at once. The stratum corneum, by and large, is not a separate layer of skin, but the uppermost edge of the epidermis.

It is the stratum corneum - the first, and one of the most significant, barriers that protect our body from most factors, those that can extremely adversely affect it.

The hydro-lipid mantle (pH of human skin: 3.8-5.6) also provides a huge help in this. In this chemical environment, most bacteria, viruses, fungi die.

In the epidermis there are no even such significant blood highways. But, in its lower layer there are special cells: melanocytes. They produce melanin, a substance responsible for skin color. The more melanin, the darker the skin. It is a very important pigment for protecting the skin from the sun and ultraviolet radiation.

Dermis

The next layer of skin also consists of several projectiles. The upper ball is the sebaceous glands. Sweat glands are located just below.

They work in a tight "tandem", releasing a biological secret to the surface through special ducts. The fibers lying deeper, endow the integument with elasticity, elasticity, while numerous collagen threads - with strength.

Hypodermis

The deepest layer. It is also called subcutaneous tissue. It pursues two main, vital, goals: softens, absorbs, any mechanical influences on the body, and also serves as a highly effective heat-insulating pad.

In it, as well as in the middle layer, many small blood vessels and nerve fibers are concentrated.

Some interesting facts. Human skin is:

✔ More than 5,000,000 hairs located on a total area of about 2 square meters.

✔ Fabric, 65-85% moisture.

✔ Skin pores contained in every square centimeter in a number exceeding 100 units.

✔ There are twice as many nerve fibers (receptors) on one centimeter as there are pores, namely, two hundred.

✔ On average, the skin is up to 2-2.5 millimeters thick.

✔ Throughout the body, the skin has unequal thickness, elasticity, rigidity, and so on, for example: on the heels it is almost not elastic, but rather rough and thick, but on the eyelids it is quite the opposite.

✔ Throughout his life, a person changes about 20 kilograms of keratinized skin.

In general, the skin is extremely complex. It is only at first glance that it is homogeneous. In fact, in addition to the fact that it consists of different layers that perform various functions, the skin is permeated through and through with a huge number of vessels, nerves, ducts of the sebaceous and sweat glands.

You can also look at the structure of the skin from a different point of view (not by layers). So, its framework is formed by collagen fibers, as well as reticular and elastic fibers. The skin itself is formed by papillary and reticular projections.

In addition to glands, blood vessels, nerves, the skin contains hair follicles, lymphatic ducts, and even small muscles. As you can see, the skin is the most complex organ in its structure. It has a number of functions.

The main functions of the skin:

Respiratory function. It consists in the fact that the skin is able to absorb a certain amount of oxygen and, accordingly, emit carbon dioxide outward. This function is provided by its porous structure.

Immune. This is the capture, processing, and also - the transport of specific antigens to the site of tissue damage by foreign bodies, with the ultimate goal of developing an immune response.

Protective. The body, thanks to it, is to a certain extent protected from foreign microorganisms, mechanical, thermal, chemical injuries, hypothermia or overheating, water ingress into it, and so on.

Thermoregulatory. As already noted, the skin is the guarantor of maintaining the optimal temperature balance of the body. It retains heat in it, and also contributes to increased heat transfer when the body overheats (this is, among other things, possible due to the sweat glands).

Receptor function. There are thousands of nerve endings on its surface. And thanks to them, a person can feel touch, cold or heat, external microtrauma, and so on.

Blood depositing function. This vital "liquid", in the total mass of the skin, can contain about 1 liter (in children - 2-3 times less, depending on age and body weight).

Exchange. Toxins, excess moisture, salt and other substances are eliminated through the skin. This function also contributes to maintaining a stable water-salt balance.

Each of these functions is important. But, all of them, taken together, ensure the normal performance of the whole organism. This is extremely important.

How our skin breathes and skin nourishment

It's amazing how unique this organ is! He has relative autonomy, as he is able to "breathe" and "eat".

This happens through the skin pores. They are not large enough to allow harmful microorganisms or most harmful substances to penetrate through them, but oxygen and the overwhelming number of nutrients (especially those processed using special modern technologies) are passed through the skin without problems.

Breathing skin

Breathing is a set of specific biological sequential processes that support the unhindered entry into the body of an important element - oxygen, as well as the removal of carbon dioxide from it. Cutaneous breathing is breathing that is carried out by the diffusion of these gases through the surface (skin) of the body.

Oxygen that enters through the pores is retained there for some time, which turns out to be quite sufficient for the diffusion process to take place. Naturally, this method cannot completely replace pulmonary respiration, but, to some extent, it is quite capable of helping it.

Skin nutrition

In the same way - through the pores, she can eat. Have you ever wondered how nourishing creams or masks, for example, work in a positive way?

The secret lies in the fact that the skin is able to absorb vitamins and minerals through its pores, assimilating them, and some part, through the bloodstream, delivering to other organs.

These abilities of the organ we are considering today have been discovered a long time ago. And during all this time there was not a single reason to doubt their veracity.

The skin, like a "sponge", absorbs air and various substances, as a rule - useful, since it retains others in an amazing, but quite understandable, from the point of view of physiology, way outside. This is the principle behind the action of a very large number of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. But, this should be borne in mind with the aim of preventing the penetration of substances harmful to health through it.

How quickly the skin is renewed and how it happens

Every organ in our body is subject to natural renewal. This process is called regeneration. Leather is no exception.

Modern research has shown that, regardless of the layer in which the cells are located, their complete renewal takes about 2-2.5 weeks. The same period can be considered the "life span" of skin cells.

They originate in the deepest layers, but gradually come to the surface, and already there they die off and gradually peel off. If we talk about how the skin is renewed, then we can say that this entire cycle, on average, takes 27-28 days.

That is, in a lifetime - almost 1000 complete skin changes. But, the rate of renewal and the quality of new cells depend on various factors, including the age of the person!

How our age affects skin renewal

Smooth, delicate and, at the same time, elastic skin is the "privilege" of youth. So it is generally accepted. And this is indeed a true statement. And although modern skin care methods are capable of real miracles, all the same - the years always take their toll. So, age influences the rate of regeneration very strongly.

Every year it happens more and more slowly, and the quality of new cells leaves much to be desired: the integument contains few elastic fibers, which is why they become flabby. The upper layers also change very sluggishly, as a result of which the appearance of the skin becomes not very aesthetically expressive.

A key beauty factor is the stable renewal of skin cells.
The old, naturally, die off, peeling off, and in their place come the young, which have emerged from the deepest layers of the skin, called basal.
They, unlike old cells, 100% cope with their functional physiological duties, which have already been described above.

But from about the age of 27-30 this process (renewal) slows down significantly. Dead cells accumulate, young ones do not arrive.

The skin itself becomes dull, flabby, weakened, its protective and aesthetic functions are significantly reduced.

The collagen content also gradually decreases, without the presence of which in sufficient volume the density, firmness, elasticity of the skin is lost.

How to help your skin renew itself

Fortunately, modern ways to keep skin looking youthful are very effective. And they are available to almost everyone.

Among them: the use of products with an exfoliating effect (in the peeling complex), special massage, washing with cool water, vitamin and mineral preparations, proper nutrition, and so on.

✔ Peeling includes: the use of funds aimed at exfoliating dead cells (scrub, gommage, for example), mechanical peeling (brossage, ultrasonic peeling, microdermabrasion or mechanical "resurfacing"), physical peeling (cryotherapy and laser resurfacing), chemical peeling ( superficial, median, deep).

✔ A comprehensive solution for rejuvenating and renewing the entire skin, and in particular the face: sculptural massage and elos rejuvenation. These are practically safe procedures with almost no contraindications. They have an amazing effect in terms of rejuvenation and improvement of appearance.

✔ Don't have the time and money to use special procedures? No problem! Regular washing with cool water can also help. So, washing the skin, including the face, about 5-6 times a day every day, you can help to strengthen its elasticity, improve color, return a fresh look. The water must be clean and cool. The same effect is achieved if used. It can be prepared from various herbs, fruit juices, vegetables, decoctions and infusions.

✔ The use of natural masks (you can even those that are made with your own hands at home), special creams and lotions enriched with vitamins and minerals is not a guarantee, but one of the serious steps towards improving the situation with the skin, including with its age changes.

✔ Proper nutrition - skin support from the inside. If substances useful for her enter the body regularly and in full, then she will stay beautiful, healthy and young longer.

Particular attention should be paid to the presence of fresh vegetables and fruits on the table, as well as cereals. Love yourself and your body, take care of your skin and be healthy.

The skin is the largest human organ that covers the body. The complex structure and functions of the skin have developed in the process of human evolution.

What is leather?

Skin - the outer cover, the thickness of which varies in different areas of the skin from 0.5 to 5 mm (excluding the hypodermis). It is an elastic, porous tissue that protects the human body from physical and chemical attack.
Skin has important properties:

stretching;
waterproofness;
sensitivity.

The skin is a natural barrier to pathogenic microorganisms. Thanks to temperature, tactile, pain receptors, the skin reacts to heat and cold, touch, pain. All over the body (with the exception of the feet and palms), hairs grow that protect the skin from overheating and react to external stimuli.

The thickest skin is found on the palms and soles. The thinnest and softest - on the eyelids and male genitals.

Internal structure

The skin is made up of three layers:

upper - epidermis or skin;
middle - dermis or skin itself;
internal - hypodermis or subcutaneous fat.

Rice. 1. General structure of the skin.

The description of the layers is presented in the table “Structure and function of the skin”.

*Layer*	*Structure*	*Functions*
Epidermis	Consists of keratinocytes - cells containing keratin (skin protein). The thinnest layer, consisting of five layers: Horny - keratinized cells; Shiny - 3-4 rows of elongated cells; Granular - 2-3 rows of cylindrical, cubic, diamond-shaped cells; Spiny - 3-6 rows of spinous keratinocytes; Basal (germ) - 1 row of young cells. In the basal layer, cells are constantly dividing and growing. There are also melanocytes - cells that secrete a protective pigment (melanin), and immune cells. Gradually rising (due to the growth of the lower layer), the cells die off, completely fill with keratin and become a stratum corneum, which peels off over time	Mechanical protection; Repulsion of water; UV protection due to melanin; Protection against the penetration of pathogenic microbes
	The most functional layer. Contains living cells, blood vessels, receptors, sweat glands. Here are the hair follicles from which the sensitive hairs grow. Consists of two collagen layers: Papillary - under the epithelium; Mesh - above the hypodermis. From the dermis, through diffusion, nutrients enter the epidermis layer	Giving skin elasticity due to the sebaceous glands; Thermoregulation due to the work of sweat glands (they secrete up to 5 liters of sweat to cool the surface of the body); Perception of an external stimulus
Hypodermis	The thickest layer. On the skull it is 2 mm, on the buttocks - 10 cm or more. Consists of dense adipose tissue	Thermal insulation; Accumulation of nutrients for skin cells

Rice. 2. The structure of the epidermis.

Hair, nails and skin glands (sweat, sebaceous, milk) are modified human skin and are called skin appendages. Their rudiments are found in the dermis.

Rice. 3. The structure of the dermis.

Metabolism

In addition to providing protection against water, microorganisms, ultraviolet light, as well as thermoregulation and irritation, the skin is involved in metabolic processes.
Some breakdown products are eliminated through the skin, in particular:

urea;
ammonia;
salt;
toxic substances;
medications.

In addition, the upper layers of the skin are able to assimilate oxygen, which is 2% of the total gas exchange in the body.

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The inner layers of the skin synthesize vitamin D under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Light skin is more susceptible to sunlight than dark skin. However, light-skinned people, unlike dark-skinned people, are prone to sunburn.

What have we learned?

We learned about the structure and function of human skin. The skin is made up of three layers, each of which has a specific function. The epidermis is a protective layer, the dermis is sensitive, and the hypodermis is insulating.

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Human skin plays an important role in the structure of the body, so it is useful for everyone to learn interesting facts about human skin... Covering our entire body, the skin performs vital functions to ensure the normal functioning of the human body. An ordinary person does not even know about some of the amazing properties of the skin.

The skin is the largest human organ... Its mass can reach 4 kg, and the area is approximately two m2.
Indoor dust is 66% dead skin cells... Interestingly, our body gets rid of 30 thousand dead cells in one minute. Throughout its life, the human body produces about 18 kg. skin, and the process of complete renewal occurs approximately a thousand times.
White skin color appeared relatively recently, about 30-50 thousand years ago... This happened due to the loss of part of the melanin pigment by people who went to the North. There are people who do not have this pigment. This phenomenon is called albinism, and is extremely rare - in 1 person per 110 thousand.
Each person has 30 to 100 moles on their body.... There are cases when this number reaches 400. There is a hypothesis that the owners of a large number of moles are less likely to suffer from age-related diseases.
Women's skin is thinner than men's... This explains why the appearance of wrinkles in women occurs earlier.
Surprisingly, the legs are most often the object of insect bites.... In addition, scientists have found that a person who has just eaten a banana is more likely to be bitten by a mosquito. They also love to bite blonde hair.
Can't Tickle Yourself because the cerebellum knows that a person is touching himself with his own hands and simply ignores these actions.
Sweat glands regulate body temperature... There are two to three million of them. Most of the sweat glands are found on the palms, feet and forehead. The common myth that sweat smells bad is not true. In fact, this smell is formed by microorganisms that live on the human body. Most of these bacteria are under the armpits. There, their number per cm2 is 80 thousand, compared with 2 thousand on a clean surface.
There is a special pigment in human skin - melanin... The content in the body determines its color. If there is a small amount of melanin, a person's skin is light, and if there is enough pigment in the body, it becomes darker.
Freckles appear in adolescence, and by the time they reach their 30s, they almost completely disappear.... Their presence indicates a lack of melanin in the body.
The smoothness of the skin is determined by the state of collagen... In youth, the cells of this protein are twisted, which allows the skin's surface to appear smooth and taut. As we age, collagen cells receive less nutrients and become clogged with heavy metals. This leads to their straightening, which lowers the skin tone. Collagen is 70% dry dermis. Its productivity decreases by 1% annually.
The outer layer of the epidermis ensures the skin is waterproof... The cells of the epidermis are interconnected very tightly, and there is a layer of fat on the surface. This layer becomes thinner if the body is exposed to water for a long period. As a result, water penetrates into the skin cells and it wrinkles.
On the feet, the skin thickness reaches up to half a centimeter - this is the area of the roughest skin... And on the eyelids, the skin is very thin.
The sebaceous glands are capable of producing about 20 grams of sebum in 24 hours.... It combines with sweat and creates a special protective skin film that prevents bacterial damage. There are different numbers of sebaceous glands in different parts of the body. So, on the back of the hand they are almost absent, but on the forehead, chin, nose, under the hair, on the chest, their number is 400-900 per 1 square centimeter. Acne and blackheads are common in these areas. The latter indicate clogged pores.
If the human body lacks vitamin D, vascular networks or asterisks form on the body.... This disease develops in 90% of people, so eat a nutritious diet for a healthy body.

Skin: structure and function. General characteristics.

The skin is a very important and complex organ. About 1 cm2 contains more than a thousand nerve endings, 645 sweat glands, 75 sebaceous glands, 65 hair follicles, 25 meters of nerve fibers and 6 meters of blood vessels. The skin protects our internal organs from microorganisms and the adverse effects of the environment. The skin is a kind of barrier between the external environment and the body. In part, it helps the work of all organs: it participates in respiration and metabolism, regulates body temperature, and is a secretory organ.

Healthy skin- one of the important prerequisites for improving the general state of human health. In an adult, the area of the skin is from one and a half to two square meters, the mass of the skin is about 18% of the total body weight. In terms of its thickness and density, the skin is not the same - it is denser on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet. The thickness of the skin covering the neck, thighs, back, and also the skull is about 4 mm. The thinnest skin on the eyelids is 0.4 mm, as well as at the external auditory canal - 0.1 mm. About 70% of human skin is water. A 70 kg person has 8 liters of water in their skin, which is why hydration is so important for the skin.

The type of skin largely depends on objective and subjective factors, among which can be named such as age and belonging to a particular race, nationality, gender. The condition of the skin can vary depending on the profession (employment, working conditions) and living conditions in general. The climate and seasons of the year have a significant impact on the condition of the skin, changing both its color and elasticity. The skin helps us breathe. The skin releases up to 800 ml of water vapor per day. This is twice as much as the lungs! The skin secreting sweat frees the body from harmful metabolic products and poisons that enter the body along with food, liquid and air.

Skin structure... The skin is made up of three layers - epidermis, dermis and hypodermis... All these are links of one chain, which are closely interconnected.

Epidermis. The epidermis is the outer and thinnest part of the skin (0.1 to 2 mm). The epidermis is composed of five layers. The upper - the stratum corneum - is in direct contact with the external environment. It is formed by dense cells that constantly peel off (about 2 billion keratinized scales are detached from the skin surface every day, with a total weight of 5 grams). When the skin is peeling, dust, dirt and microbes are removed from the surface of the skin along with the dead skin cells.

The stratum corneum determines the permeability of the skin for various substances, including space. Under the influence of friction, sunlight, the stratum corneum thickens. Under the stratum corneum there are 4 layers: shiny, granular, spiny, embryonic (basal). In the deepest layer - the embryonic (basal) - the formation of new cells continuously occurs.

The germ layer at the border with the dermis forms the basement membrane. In the basement membrane from keratin - an extremely important protein for the skin - new young cells are synthesized - keratinocytes, which repeat in miniature the path of every organism living on Earth. They are born, go through a certain path of development and die off. The process of new cell formation occurs mainly during a night's sleep. Within 3-4 weeks, a young cell from the basal layer rises to the surface of the epidermis and dies. Thus, every month there is a complete renewal of the epidermis. In the cells of the germ layer, a dye is formed - melanin, which determines the color of the skin and hair, and the more there is, the darker the skin. The activity of melanocyte cells, which produce melanin, directly depends on the intensity of solar radiation.

The formation of melanin is enhanced by ultraviolet rays. It is thanks to this that we sunbathe. The pigment cells on the surface of the skin are unevenly located. For example, there are twice as many pigment cells on the skin of the face as on the inner side of the hand, so the face tans more and more quickly. But significant irradiation leads to hyperstimulation of melanocytes, and "chocolate" tan can contribute to the development of malignant pigmentary neoplasms. With an even distribution of melanocytes under the influence of ultraviolet rays, the skin is covered with a beautiful golden tan. If melanocytes are unevenly distributed in the skin, then in places of their accumulation pigment spots and, as one of the forms of pigmentation, freckles can form.

Dermis. Translated from the Latin language "derma" means "own skin". The dermis includes: fibroblasts, macrophages, collagen and elastin fibers, intercellular substance, blood and lymphatic vessels, nerve endings, skin muscles, hair follicles, sweat and sebaceous glands. The dermis plays the role of a framework that provides the mechanical properties of the skin - its elasticity, strength and extensibility. The dermis is a thicker layer of skin compared to the epidermis. Its thickness reaches 2.4 mm. In the dermis, there is a papillary layer adjacent to the basement membrane and a thick mesh layer lying under it. The papillary layer contains bundles of smooth muscle cells that attach to the hair follicles. When we are cold, these microscopic muscles contract, hairs rise, the surface layers of the skin contract, and bumps form.

The reticular layer of the dermis is a plexus of fibers that determine the strength, elasticity, and extensibility of the skin. These fibers are divided into two types: one is made of collagen protein, the other is made of elastin. It is the elastin fibers that give the skin elasticity, and the collagen fibers - the strength. The elasticity and smoothness (otherwise tone and turgor) of the skin surface is provided by the large amount of water in the dermis. If you want to keep your skin firm and smooth for a long time, then you need to take care of its hydration. This is also important because the skin easily loses moisture, and stress, environmental pollution, improper care accelerate the process of moisture evaporation and increase skin dehydration.

The epidermis does not have blood vessels, so the dermis supplies the epidermis with vitamins, oxygen, proteins, minerals, trace elements and amino acids. Both layers are closely related to each other. But in the process of aging of the body, this connection is gradually destroyed, and as a result, the epidermis receives insufficient oxygen and other nutrients - and the skin becomes gray, sluggish, flabby. The dermis is supplied with a large number of blood and lymph vessels. They nourish it and remove harmful metabolic products from it. An extensive network of capillaries in the dermis shines through the thin epidermis and gives the skin a pink tint. The dermis is also abundantly supplied with nerve fibers, many of which have sensitive receptors.

In general, the skin contains 250 thousand sensitive receptors for cold, 30 thousand recipes for heat, 2 million pain nerve endings and 500 thousand receptors for touch. Inside, the dermis is permeated with sweat, sebaceous glands and hair follicles. Through a duct, or sweat channel, the sweat gland drives sweat to the surface of the skin through the pores. Sweat is secreted by the contraction of the muscle fibers surrounding the gland, which keeps the skin's surface moisturized. The secret of the sweat glands is sour. Thanks to the sweat glands, thermoregulation of the whole body is carried out. Sweating and evaporation occurs continuously at any temperature, increasing as it rises. In structure, the sebaceous gland resembles a bag filled with lard. The fats of the sebaceous glands are fats of glycerin and fatty acids. The sebaceous gland flows open into the channels that exit the hair skin. There can be 6-10 sebaceous glands around one hair. On the face, part of the sebaceous glands opens directly to the surface of the skin. On average, about 3 grams of fat are released from the sebaceous gland per day. The released oil softens the skin and hair. Depending on the amount of fat secreted by the sebaceous glands, the skin is distinguished between normal, dry, oily and combination. The fat released onto the surface of the skin creates on it (together with sweat) an acidic water-fatty film called the "water-lipid matter" of the skin. 5-7 days after the release of fat on the surface of the skin, its antibacterial properties are lost, as the fat decomposes. The breakdown products of fat irritate the skin and cause the person to feel itchy. If such sebum is removed with soap and water, then even in young and healthy skin, surface acidity is restored after 3-4 hours, which is why it is so important to use the right products for cleansing the skin.

Hypodermis(subcutaneous fat) This is the lowest, deepest layer of the skin. It consists of loose connective tissue, in the loops of which fat is located. The thickness of this layer varies widely. In the area of the abdomen and buttocks, it can reach 10 cm or more. There is no fat layer on the eyelids, it is small on the nose (up to 2 mm), auricles and lips. The subcutaneous fat contains a rich network of blood vessels and nerve fibers. It stores fat reserves, which are energy reserves for the body, which are consumed in emergency situations, for example, during an illness. Subcutaneous tissue protects the body from bruises and hypothermia. Formed from a layer of fat, this layer allows the skin to glide smoothly over the organs and muscles it covers. Beneath the connective tissue is a powerful layer of skeletal muscle. With their contractions, the muscles strengthen the elastic fibers of the skin, improve blood circulation in it and promote the absorption of fat.

Function of the skin. The skin, as one of the most important organs of the human body, has several very important functions:
- Creates a protective barrier, which contributes to the preservation of moisture, electrolytes and high molecular weight compounds in the body;
- Is a mechanical barrier that protects against harmful mechanical, physical, chemical influences and the penetration of microorganisms;
- Plays an essential role in the thermoregulation of the body;
- The surface of the skin has bactericidal properties;
- The presence of sweat glands performs the function of an excretory organ;
- Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin;
-Due to the presence of nerve endings, it collects information about changes in the external environment, is an organ of pain and temperature sensitivity.

Skin types... There are several classifications for defining skin. The skin is classified according to photosensitivity and the function of the sebaceous and sweat glands. In addition, a combination of indicators such as allergenicity, moisture, greasiness, elasticity, skin profile, vascular condition, pigmentation level and sensitivity are taken into account. Thus, we get up to 30 different types of skin. The main types of skin. There are four main types of skin, depending on the oil content and moisture content: dry, normal, combined and oily... You can combine information about each of them in order to more conveniently determine the client's skin type and understand what kind of care is required.

Oily skin. This type of skin has a characteristic oily sheen and wide pores that are very noticeable. Oily skin is not prone to the formation of wrinkles, since excess sebum prevents it from drying out, but on oily skin they constantly appear, but comedones, acne and acne constantly appear on oily skin. Oily skin is almost always porous. The reason for this is not fully understood. But, apparently, certain substances can lead to increased keratinization of the upper layer, while a pressure is created, under the action of which the pores expand in a funnel-like manner. Dust and dirt are deposited on the greasy skin faster than on dry skin. Maintaining a well-groomed appearance of the skin with an oily type is not easy. Oily skin is due to the secretion of sebum, and epidermal lipids are responsible for the water balance. Therefore, even oily skin can be dehydrated and require moisturizing care at the same time as defatting. The male hormone testosterone is to blame for the excess fat. The female body also produces it, therefore, during puberty and the formation of the endocrine system, when the level of hormones changes, the skin of most adolescents becomes oily and can become covered with acne. But oily skin does not indicate an excess of this hormone in either men or women. It's just that the sebaceous glands have an individual, hereditary sensitivity to this hormone. And even the best care cannot change the hereditary program.

A special case: oily but dry skin. Dermatologists call this condition dry seborrhea. Such skin, even being relatively oily and forming blackheads and sebaceous plugs, nevertheless looks matte, rough and dry. The reason for this is a lack of moisture combined with an excess of fat, which, however, is completely absorbed by the thickened stratum corneum, so that the skin looks porous and loose.

Combination leather. This is a somewhat "worsened" version of normal skin. It is also the most common. The skin has a healthy appearance, an even structure and oily areas with large pores in the so-called T-zone - the chin, nose and forehead, and on the cheeks, in the area of the eyes and temples - dry. Such leather can have uneven coloration and uneven texture. Owners of combination skin, who know its features, can achieve masterly precision when caring for it. In the case of combination skin, you should have two sets of cosmetics on hand: for oily and for dry skin. Especially if the difference between these zones is significant. The most common mistake of owners of combination skin is that all skin is treated as oily, as a result of which the areas around the eyes are dry, which leads to early formation of wrinkles in this area. Therefore, it should be remembered that a differentiated approach to the care of combination skin is a basic principle. Severe combination skin is essentially only found in adolescence. It is at this age that it is important to properly care for oily areas, preventing the appearance of acne, while moisturizing dry areas. At older ages, care for combination skin can be minimized, as combination skin, with proper care, often becomes normal with age.

Normal skin. Those lucky enough to have this type of skin almost always look great. Their skin is smooth, with small pores. The moisture and fat content in such skin is harmonized, and various irritations appear extremely rarely. With proper care, deep wrinkles do not appear on this type of skin until the age of 50-60. But, unfortunately, the owners of normal skin are very rare. With age, normal skin tends to become drier, and therefore care must be changed. In addition, the structure of the skin is such that, even being normal, it changes its properties under the influence of weather conditions and the state of the body. Sometimes in women, before menstruation, pustules may appear on the skin of a normal type. During this period, there is an increased production of hormones. This increases the activity of the sebaceous glands, but for people with normal skin, pustules and acne are usually not a big problem. The only problem with normal skin is to keep it healthy. To do this, the skin needs to be cleansed and protected from environmental influences. Cleansing should not overdry the skin, and environmental protection products should not be overly oily. Also, to maintain a healthy, beautiful appearance of the skin, you should select different products depending on the season: in winter - as for slightly dry, and in summer - as for slightly oily.

Dry skin... With this type of skin, the skin is usually very thin, has small pores and a matte, dull tone due to the reduced oil content. In adolescence, this type of skin looks very attractive: peach cheeks, lack of shine, invisible pores. But on such skin wrinkles are quickly formed, especially around the eyes, peeling, and its owners experience a feeling of tightness. Climate that is too hot or too cold makes the skin dry even faster. The air in our apartments and offices is too dry, which also has a negative effect on the skin. Sometimes it "dries up" so much that it begins to peel off, cracks appear on it, and the skin becomes rough. In this case, they talk about sensitive skin (this has nothing to do with allergies). Do not confuse dehydrated and dry skin. These are different concepts. Dehydrated (flaky) skin can be oily or normal. Dry skin lacks both fat and moisture. This is to blame for the insufficient function of the sebaceous glands, which produce less fat than is required for the formation of a natural protective film that protects the skin from drying out.

Unfortunately, even with the best care for dry skin, the sebaceous glands will not produce more sebum. However, proper care can make up for imperfections and keep dry skin attractive. Dry skin care should be as delicate as possible, and this applies not only to the number of drugs used, but also to their composition. Products for dry skin should be hypoallergenic and free of aromatic fragrances. The biggest problem with dry skin is the early appearance of wrinkles. That is why careful and properly selected care is important for such skin.

On a note. With age, the skin changes, gradually it becomes all that exists, loses its firmness and elasticity. Accordingly, cosmetics should also change. In addition, cosmetics should be selected taking into account the season and climatic conditions. Also, the temporary conditions of stay (humid climate of resorts, frost, wind) should be taken into account. When choosing funds, one should be guided by a simple rule: make up for deficiencies and eliminate surpluses. In addition, you need to know that any skin needs four main stages of care: protection, cleansing, hydration and nutrition. Be sure to take into account the age. In this case, one should be guided not only by biological age, but also by the condition of the skin.

Conditions of the skin

Sensitive skin. The concept of "sensitive skin" is very firmly entrenched in our life. Clients of cosmetologists are complaining about her more and more often, they write about her in magazines, talk about her at professional congresses, and special cosmetics are produced for her. 7 out of 10 women in Central Europe describe their skin as sensitive. But only one has really sensitive skin. In most cases, the owners of such skin are blondes and redheads with very light skin and blue or green eyes. Their skin not only produces little fat, but also has a very thin stratum corneum and very little protective pigment. Because of this, she is especially susceptible to all external stimuli. As well as internal stress. For some people, all the signs of "sensitivity" - irritation, redness and flaking of the skin - occur after the use of cosmetics that are not suitable for their skin. In others, such manifestations are noted with a change in climatic conditions. A skin reaction like this is very often mistaken for an allergy or some kind of dermatological disease, such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis. Nevertheless: if for a long time such symptoms appear suddenly, for no apparent reason, most likely we can talk about sensitive skin.

The most "sensitive nature" are those areas of the face, on which either anatomically too thin skin, or the so-called lipid barrier is lost or weakened. An example of such areas is the nasolabial area and the area around the eyes. It is no secret that irritation most often appears in these places.

Loose (fading) skin Loose skin is easy to fold, it is pale, prone to wrinkles and is characterized by insignificant sebum secretion, reduced elasticity, stretched pores. In the outlines of the face, even in young people, the hollowness of the cheeks, deep premature nasolabial folds draw attention to themselves. Withering, or aging, of the skin occurs with aging of the entire body. The first signs of aging appear on the skin of the face and neck much earlier than on the body. Signs of withering of the skin of the face and neck begin to appear gradually from 25-30 years and become noticeable by 40-45. With age, the skin becomes thinner, its elasticity decreases, it easily folds, wrinkles appear. First of all - in the area of the eyes (crow's feet), then - at the corners of the mouth, on the bridge of the nose. Where in youth there were charming dimples, now completely unnecessary wrinkles. With age, there is an excess of skin on the cheeks, chin, neck, the oval of the face changes. Sudden flabbiness of the skin can be caused by a sharp weight loss, especially if a woman is at the age of 35-40 years, when the processes of regeneration and the formation of new cells are significantly slowed down.

Dehydrated skin It is a skin condition that can occur in any skin type. In cosmetology, dehydrated skin is called that contains an insufficient amount of water and is not able to retain it in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The uppermost, stratum corneum, layer of the skin is 33% water, which is why it is so plastic and elastic. With age, under the influence of various aggressive external factors (improper care, thinning of the stratum corneum, UV radiation, smog, dry indoor air, sudden temperature changes), the water balance of the skin is disturbed and the loss of fluid important for the life cycle of the cell begins to exceed its intake. With a prolonged shortage of water in the epidermis and deeper in the dermis, mechanisms of drying and thickening of the upper layer (to lock the moisture inside) are triggered, the aging process of cells accelerates, dehydrated skin begins to inflame, peel off and loses its barrier properties - the ability to prevent the entry of various pathogenic bacteria into the body and toxins.

Dry and combination dehydrated skin. The term "dehydrated" refers to the presence of moisture in the skin. When it is insufficient, dry and combination skin looks dull, it is rough to the touch, flaky. Such skin can become hypersensitive, prone to irritation. After prolonged exposure to the wind, sun or cold, the skin becomes rough and irritated areas appear; without the use of cosmetics, the skin slightly "burns" and there is a feeling of tightness.

Oily, dehydrated skin... Oily, dehydrated skin looks dull with enlarged pores. The skin is flaky in places. It is prone to irritation and poor healing of lesions, while the skin produces a large amount of oil. There is a feeling of tightness after washing. After prolonged exposure to wind, sun or cold, the skin may become rough and irritated.

Acne prone skin... During adolescence, the skin tends to become covered with pimples and blackheads, but it must be borne in mind that if you have these problems, then they can appear again at any age. From 80 to 100% of adolescents, to one degree or another, suffer from skin rashes, and an increasing number of adult women also face these problems, possibly due to the abuse of contraceptive pills, stress, hormonal disorders of a various nature.

Causes of skin rashes... It used to be thought that skin rashes - acne, blackheads - were associated with certain types of food or dirty skin. Today it is attributed to oily skin and psychological factors such as stress. Recent studies have shown that acne is caused by the accumulation of keratohyalin, bacteria and fats in individual hair follicles; the most vulnerable are the large follicles located on the face, chest and upper back. This is influenced by some other possible reasons:
- Heredity - in many cases, skin rashes are associated with heredity;
- Hormonal background (it is believed that an excess of any hormones can cause acne breakouts). Everyone has both female and male hormones; in women, this phenomenon may be associated with the menstrual cycle. The use of birth control pills also changes hormonal levels in the body, and this can be one of the reasons. In addition, stress is reflected in the level of adrenaline release, which can also affect the condition of the skin;
- Comedogenic cosmetic products. A non-pore-clogging oil-free product is the best for breakout-prone skin. People with oily acne prone skin are advised to use cosmetics only on a fat-free basis;
- Moisture, which contributes to skin irritation. This may occur more frequently during the summer, although the sun cures the skin for some people.

Inflammation of the sebaceous glands. In adolescence, the content of hormones in the blood rapidly increases, and this intensifies the secretion of more sebum by the sebaceous glands. Hormones can cause excess keratin to clog follicular outlets, resulting in a typical skin lesion called acne. In adults, acne can occur for any of the above reasons. Blackheads (closed blackheads - white-headed; open-ended blackheads) form when clots of keratin and sebum clog a hair follicle. Some acne can develop into typical pustular skin rashes. These pimples and papules form from acne when the wall of a clogged follicle ruptures and dead skin cells, fat, and bacteria enter the dermis. The number of white blood cells then increases, blocking the infection from spreading to the lower layers of the skin. Reddening of the skin appears, and white blood cells mixed with dead skin cells, fat and bacteria accumulate in the follicle, forming pus. Then a red bump with a yellowish head, called a papule, appears on the skin. Pimples should not be squeezed out, as bacteria can penetrate deeper into the skin and may leave a scar. If left untouched, the white blood cells will gradually destroy the living bacteria.

Skin problems. Clogged, dark, open pores. Excess hormones and improper skin care lead to hypertrophy and changes in the shape of the sebaceous ducts and glands. Respiratory and bactericidal properties of cells and skin immunity are reduced. Inflammatory processes begin. Decrease in elasticity, formation of wrinkles on the skin. The reasons for their appearance are the natural aging processes of the body, active facial expressions, the negative impact of the environment, lack of rest and bad habits. In addition, due to the harmful action of free radicals and stressful situations, metabolic processes weaken, hormonal levels change - and the skin can acquire the first wrinkles.

Stress spots. With nervous overstrain, aggressive hormones are produced, the walls of blood vessels become permeable, and blood circulation is defective. "Hungry" cells lose their protective membrane functions. This leads to a metabolic disorder of the skin, an increase in the excitability of nerve receptors and a decrease in tissue elasticity.

Acne. The reason for the appearance is stress and hormonal changes, which cause an increase in sebum production. At some point, the pores are no longer able to handle the increased sebum, and acne-causing bacteria begin to multiply in the pores.

Skin health. How to determine the condition of the skin? Healthy skin has a soft glow and an even texture, not prone to acne breakouts. The pores of healthy skin are the same size. Healthy skin is velvety to the touch and has an even tone. Such skin produces a sufficient amount of sebum to protect itself from excessive moisture loss, while not having an excessive shine. Acquiring and maintaining healthy skin is not an easy task. To do this, it is necessary to devote a certain amount of time daily to skin care, which consists of five stages: cleansing, improving the structure of the skin (mask), toning, moisturizing and protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the environment. Complete these five steps on a daily basis will keep your skin healthy and look younger and more attractive.

Remember that in order to achieve maximum results, you must regularly perform all procedures: every morning, cleanse, tone and moisturize the skin; then use protective equipment to protect it from excessive loss of moisture and harmful environmental influences. Every evening before going to bed, it is imperative to cleanse, tone the skin and moisturize it in order to remove all impurities, sweat products, dead cells and excess fat that accumulate on the surface of the face during the day. It is recommended to use a mask twice a week, which improves the structure of the skin by removing keratinized particles from the skin surface.

Skin care is not an exact science, because in each case an individual approach is applied, which depends, first of all, on the type of skin and its condition, the regularity and correct sequence of the use of cosmetics. The skin of any person is especially sensitive to both external and internal influences: diet, medications, stress, hormone levels, temperature, humidity, ultraviolet radiation and environmental pollution. How much the skin is able to cope with harmful effects on a daily basis depends on the gene pool and the person's age. Despite the fact that natural data are different for everyone, there are ways to keep your skin young and healthy for a long time! But before using soap or moisturizers, keep in mind that each cosmetic should be designed exclusively for that skin type. Using unsuitable cosmetics can harm your skin. While the right products will not affect skin type, they will stimulate the skin's ability to deal with the harmful effects of the environment on a daily basis.

Spot check of skin type. The most accurate way to reflect the needs of a client's skin is to measure the amount of sebum she is producing. Sebum is a natural moisturizer that is secreted through the pores and forms a protective layer that helps the skin retain moisture. The best time to conduct a spot check is in the morning. Cleanse your face with cleansers. After 3 hours, gently apply a paper towel to the center of your forehead and support it for 15 seconds so that it can absorb the fat that has accumulated on the surface of the skin. Place a second tissue on your cheek at the outer corner of your eye and support it for the same period of time. Then compare both napkins:. If there are traces of fat on both wipes, the sebaceous glands are working normally and the skin type is normal. If a trace of fat is barely visible on any of the wipes, the skin type is dry. The absence of greasy spots means very dry skin type. ... If there is a lot of fat on both wipes, the skin type is oily. The larger the oily trail, the more oily the skin. If there is a greasy mark on the napkin that you applied to your cheek, and on the one that you applied to your forehead, the mark is more noticeable, the skin type is combined.

What is leather? It is a natural barrier that is located between the outer and human skin performs a number of very important functions and tasks and ensures the smooth operation of the entire human body. In this article, we will find out what the value of human skin is, why it is needed, what diseases it can be exposed to.

Function of the skin

Thermoregulation is a very important process that must regulate the temperature of the human body and keep it constant, regardless of environmental conditions. More than 80% of heat exchange occurs precisely through the skin.
Receptor... Receptors are organs or cells that are able to translate external influences into nerve impulses and transmit signals of this influence to our nervous system. Pain, tactile receptors are located here. Those that react to cold and heat. There are about 6 million cells per 1 square centimeter, and of them there will be 5 thousand receptors that are responsible for the perception of certain external signals.
Protective- a very important function, since it is the human skin, the meaning of which is revealed in the article, that is a kind of barrier for the penetration of various infections through the surface of the body. Therefore, if there are any injuries on the skin, they must be treated in order to prevent the penetration of harmful substances into the human body. In addition, sweat is released on the surface of the skin, which is acidic and kills most bacteria.
Respiratory... Thanks to the skin, gas exchange occurs in the human body. Scientists are still arguing about the importance of gas exchange for human skin. But it is known for sure that we receive a large amount of oxygen through the skin.

Excretory... Together with sweat, all those components that need to be removed from the body for its proper functioning are released through the skin.
Exchange... Regulation of water-salt and temperature balance. All this happens due to the exchange of substances with the environment. As a result, the regulation of many processes occurring in the human body is carried out.
Synthetic... The essence of this function is that a special pigment melanin is synthesized in human skin, which allows you to neutralize the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Melanin is a good antioxidant. In addition, with its help, the human body receives vitamin D, which protects it from bacterial infections and is still considered one of the best means of combating diseases such as tuberculosis. This vitamin causes the formation of protective peptides in the body, which activate the immune system, and destroys Koch's bacillus.
Blood deposition. In the blood vessels of the skin, about 1 liter of blood can be retained, which is kind of necessary when wounds occur.
Self-cleaning... The skin constantly loses its cells due to contact with the environment, but thanks to regeneration, we practically do not notice this.

All these functions perfectly show how important human skin is.

Skin structure

Answering the question, what is leather, it is necessary to dwell in more detail on it consists of three layers. The outer layer is called the epidermis. It is he who is constantly in contact with the environment. The second layer is the skin itself, or the dermis, or it is also called the dermis. And the deepest layer is the subcutaneous fatty tissue, which in some people can reach a thickness of several centimeters. Let's look at all these three layers in more detail.

Epidermis

Dermis

The dermis is made up of connective tissue. Its main constituent parts are collagen and elastic fibers. They give the skin its elasticity. Thanks to this property, we can painlessly move the limbs, while stretching the skin. In addition, the dermis contains receptors through which we feel touch, pain, cold and warmth. Sweat and sebaceous substances are located here, which will release substances from the human body into the environment. Finally, the dermis contains hair follicles and a small amount of muscles that affect them.

Let's dwell on the glands and follicles in more detail. The glands are divided into sebaceous and sweat glands. The sebaceous glands secrete a special secret called sebum, which prevents water from entering the human body, as well as the loss of moisture from the body. A person will release about 20 g of sebaceous secretion during the day. Sweat glands look like twisted tubes with an excretory duct. Depending on the physique, the intensity of physical activity, a person can release about half a liter of sweat every day. Sweat plays an important role in the water-salt balance, controlling homeostasis as the constancy of the internal environment, and in the heat regulation of the human body, since it evaporates from the surface of the body and cools it.

Hair follicles are located deep in the dermis and underlie hair growth. They are approached by blood vessels that bring oxygen and essential nutrients and nerves.

Subcutaneous adipose tissue

It is the deepest layer, consisting mainly of adipose tissue and fat cells. This fat serves a variety of beneficial functions. Firstly, it is a place where energy and fat-soluble vitamins are stored, thanks to which the human body can go without food for some time. Secondly, adipose tissue is an excellent insulating material that protects the body from hypothermia. Thirdly, this layer of skin in a certain way protects a person from injuries and fractures.

We have answered in detail the question of what is leather. Now let's turn to the diseases that the skin can be exposed to, as well as the methods of treatment.

Diseases and treatments of the skin

What is leather? It is primarily an organ. And therefore, like any other human organ, it can get sick. What are the main problems associated with human skin?

Hives

Blisters on the skin, redness, itching - almost every one of us has encountered such problems at least once in our life, and some suffer from it all the time. Hives, as this ailment is called, can cause many reasons. This is an unhealthy diet, and contact with synthetic materials, and, of course, allergies. Hives are easy to distinguish from other skin problems. It is characterized by blisters and itching. In addition, urticaria passes quickly enough (if we are not talking about a chronic disease). Blisters stay on the skin for no more than a day. For hives, various antihistamines are usually prescribed.

Fungal diseases. Rubromycosis

Despite the great preventive medical work, fungal diseases are still widespread. The most common is rubromycosis. It affects the skin of the feet and interdigital folds. With this disease, mucous peeling and cracks appear. In the absence of timely treatment, the disease from the feet can spread further over the entire surface of the skin. With rubromycosis, antifungal ointments and keratolytic drugs are prescribed.

Epidermophytosis

The most common form of the disease is interdigital. Cracks, loosening, weeping erosion appear. Most often, athletes and workers in hot shops suffer from this ailment. With a timely visit to a doctor, the disease can be easily cured with conventional antifungal drugs.

Microsporia

Another disease and scalp, which children often suffer from. The fact is that animals are carriers of this disease. Rounded lesions with clear contours appear on the skin. Pustules and peeling are possible. When the disease spreads to the scalp, hair may break off 4-6 mm from the skin surface. If such foci of the disease are found, it is necessary to consult a doctor. As a rule, a dermatologist prescribes antifungal ointments, and with an advanced disease, drugs that include a hormonal component.

The skin, photos of all its components are presented in the article, suffers from many influences and diseases. We have listed only the most basic ones.