Dr. Jeremy Burgess/Science Photo Library
Our skin is not only our largest organ, it is also the one we are most familiar with. We are constantly looking at it, touching it, cleaning it, inspecting it. However, when we think about taking care of it, our thoughts often jump to aesthetics. We’re inundated with ads for lotions and potions that claim to improve our appearance – as if sexual attraction is the only important factor in this particular organ.
However, aside from cosmetic concerns, there are many other reasons to take care of our complexion. According to new research, this condition can have knock-on effects in other parts of the body. Because of the dense blood vessels beneath the surface, inflammation that begins in the skin can easily spread to the heart and brain, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia. Wrinkles aren’t just a reflection of our age—they can actually drive the aging process. Therefore, we should think about skin care the same way we think about exercise: the best reason to do it isn’t for aesthetics, but for the undeniable health benefits.
So making sure our epidermis is in good condition should be a top priority for anyone who wants to increase their chances of living a long life, which is why we’ve put together a special report on the best ways we know to take care of it (see ” Why taking care of your skin is so important for your long-term health”).
Using scientific methods can help us make informed decisions about new products
As evidence mounts about the importance of skin to overall health, research into how to care for your skin is moving away from the marketing of health products and into the realm of proper scientific research.
For example, we now know that certain foods can reduce damage caused by air pollution and the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and we may be able to nurture our microbiomes by being in contact with nature more frequently. Adopting a scientific method can also help us evaluate new trends and fads so that we can make informed decisions about goods and services that have proven benefits, rather than just claims of a quick fix.
Beauty may not be superficial – but wanting to protect our bodies from the outside in isn’t. It saves our skin in many ways.
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