The skin is the largest organ of the human body and has three main functions: protection, regulation and sensation. The primary function of the skin is protection. It is our first line of defence and provides protection from: mechanical impacts and pressure, variations in temperature, pathogens, radiation and chemicals. The skin also regulates several aspects of physiology, including: body temperature via sweat and hair, changes in peripheral circulation and fluid balance via sweat. Importantly it acts as a reservoir for the synthesis of Vitamin D. Finally, it contains an extensive network of nerve cells that detect and relay changes in the environment. There are separate receptors for heat, cold, touch, and pain.
Not only is it an important organ it is also the second largest host to our microbiome after the gut. There are several hundred different microbial species that reside on the skin and the beauty of our skin is now thought to be closely linked to the balance of the microorganisms that populate it.
Just as we look after our kidneys, heart and other organs so we need to look after our skin. Looking after our skin requires feeding not only all 3 layers of the skin (the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) with nutrients that will enable the cells to stay in optimum health, but also feeding the beneficial microorganisms that live on the skin. For these reasons as well as the added benefit of having beautiful healthy glowing skin, what we put on our skin is actually very important.
When thinking about our skin care we need to look closely at what we are using. Many soaps and creams contain ingredients that are harmful to our skin and when absorbed are also harmful to our health. Steer clear of any creams that contain phthalates, parabens, sulfates, and petroleum by products and always read the ingredient labels. In the cosmetic industry price does not always reflect quality!
Many cleansers are harsh and contain alcohol and other detergents which strip the skin of its’ lipids. Lipids are important as they form a natural skin barrier holding in moisture whilst keeping out dirt and other impurities. When stripped of lipids we are likely to lose too much water, so it is for this reason that many moisturisers contain wax. These moisturisers are formulated to form a barrier over the skin preventing moisture loss, however they also stop the skin from breathing properly, from being able to absorb needed nutrients, and from being able to release toxins out of the skin. Removal of this waxy barrier in turn requires a harsh cleanser and so the cycle continues.
Last month Synergyworldwide launched a programme of natural skin products that feed and heal the skin from the inside out. These products have been formulated to give the skin the nutrients it requires and re programme the skin to act young again. One of the creams reactivates tired fibroblasts to make more collagen 3, another seeks broken DNA in the hypodermis and repairs it, they help increase the moisture content of the skin by 85% in 30 mins and using micro biotic technology feed the ‘good’ microorganisms and keep them in balance. Together these creams purify, fortify and protect the skin, keeping it feeling, looking and behaving as it is designed to do. The programme is suitable for all skin types, male, female, and for people of all colour.
If you would like to know more about the programme and the science behind it please contact Helen Prosper at helen@ livewellandprosper.uk or 07545 227272
livewellandprosper.uk
