Skin Health

Back Clinic Skin Health Functional Medicine Team. An individual’s skin can reveal stories about their life, from the glow of pregnancy to the spots that surface from sun damage. People hear about protecting their skin from the sun’s rays, but many simple health moves can keep one’s skin in great shape. This is because skin provides a physical and chemical barrier between the outside environment and the inside tissues.

This barrier functions to protect underlying tissues from pathogens, chemicals, and environmental exposures. Structurally, the skin is comprised of two main layers, the epidermis, and the dermis. The epidermis, or upper layer, is responsible for the barrier functions of the skin. The dermis is the structural and nutritive support underneath the epidermis. Each layer has its own unique structure and function, and each has its own requirements. Various challenges for healthy skin include:

• Photo-damage or exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Sunburn is the most common form.
• Dry skin
• Wrinkles
• Healing Wounds
• Aging

Nutritional status plays an important role in the maintenance of healthy skin. Skin nutrition may be enhanced directly through topical applications. Topical application of micronutrients can complement dietary consumption, leading to a stronger, healthier protective barrier of the body.