If you want a meaningful outcome, you have to plan purposefully. When it comes to skincare, often times, we just jump on the latest trending product or (worse) our friend's product recommendation without considering our own unique set of circumstances. Last week's episode helped us set meaningful skin intentions through a purposeful approach. If you haven't done it, go back to episode one and complete the handout. You'll thank us later.
This week's episode is going to build on what we discovered last week by enriching your understanding of skin (in general) and your skin (in particular).
Anatomy & Physiology of Skin
The skin is the body's largest & primary protective organ and is made up of two layers - the epidermis & dermis. The skin has 5 primary functions:
Everyday, all day long and without our involvement, the skin performs these critical functions through a variety of physical and chemical processes. The goal of any skincare regimen should be focused on preserving, protecting and nourishing the skin so that it can optimally carry out its functions.
Categorizing & Characterizing Skin
Skin Types
There are two ways to talk about skin type - one involves how your skin balances oil & moisture and the other involves how your skin reacts to UV exposure.
There are 4 basic skin types:
Each skin type will require different care in order for the skin to function at its best. For example, an oily skin type will most certainly require a cleansing routine that helps to normalize sebum production. But that would be the opposite for a dry skin type. Understanding your skin type is the first step to crafting effective skincare.
Fitzpatrick Scale
The other way to identify your skin type is to determine how much melanin (or pigment) is in your skin and how it reacts to UV exposure using the Fitzpatrick Scale.
You are born with a skin type. Although your skin can change with age, your skin type remains constant for most of your life. Proper skincare isn't about changing your skin type, but rather helping it perform at its best.
Skin Conditions
Skin conditions are how your skin responds to external and/or internal factors such as your environment, diet, stress, lifestyle, medication and hormones. As such, skin conditions can change. The 5 most common skin conditions that we see and treat include:
In last week's homework, you identified skin conditions that concern you. Please return to that list and update with any changes.
Don't forget to store each week's homework in one place, so that you're creating your very own skincare journal. We'll see you next week to discuss cleansers!
