Nurse Kim Talks Skin

Nurse Kim Talks Skin              

Kimberly Morris-Flores, MSN, RN, CPPS

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and covers the entire external surface.  We know that it is made up of three layers, epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis all of which have specific function and anatomy.  What that means is that our skin is the body’s first line of defense against pathogens, chemicals, and mechanical injury.  We need to keep it intact and help the skin to do its job protecting us.  You may ask - how does it help protect us? It helps us to regulate our temperature, supports our endocrine system by producing Vitamin D, our exocrine system by excreting sweat, and we experience the sensations of touch, heat, cold and pain through the nerve endings in our epidermis.  It serves as a barrier to water, pollutants, infection as our first site of immunological defense as it covers our entire external surface.  In fact, the epidermis contains much of our normal flora and each body region has its own microbiome, much like our gut.  When the protective barrier of our skin is altered, we can suffer infection, increase in wrinkles, changes in texture and pigmentation. 

Many of us are concerned with the aesthetic nature of our skin.  We want it to be smooth, looking and feeling plump and hydrated, free of blemishes, wrinkles, and spots. Unfortunately, there are things that we are exposed to, many of which may be unintentional.  For example, secondhand smoke, air pollution, and certain cleaning products emit fumes which are damaging to the skin.  Air quality alone has demonstrated its impact on skin aging, attributing to wrinkles and an increase in pigment spots on the forehead and cheeks.  Our dietary habits, smoke from cooking with certain fuel sources can contribute in a negative manner, not to mention the potential damage of UV rays from the sun.  While there is always a need for further research, current strategies for protection should focus on repairing the skin barrier, replenishing the antioxidant reserve, and reducing inflammation caused by air pollutants.  Research has demonstrated some key ingredients in a skin product that will help maintain our skin as the effective barrier it is intended to be. Emollients and humectants that contain antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E have been shown to reduce the transepidermal water loss, neutralize free radicals, increase skin barrier function, prevent collagen degradation and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreens with Oxybenzone and Zinc Oxide prevent the synergistic effect of air pollution and UV.

Skin Saver Barrier Lotion is crafted with a thoughtful blend of emollients, humectants, and essential fatty acids that work harmoniously to nurture and protect your skin. Our formulation includes propylene glycol, a powerful humectant that attracts and binds water to your skin, ensuring lasting hydration. Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, another key ingredient, acts as a humectant with soothing properties, calming your skin and promoting a soft, supple feel. Glyceryl stearate, an emollient, is added to soften and smooth your skin, while ricinus communis seed oil contributes beneficial fatty acids for skin health. Palmitate, also a fatty acid, further enhances the nourishing effects. We've included dimethicone as a skin protectant, mineral oil for its occlusive barrier, and jojoba seed oil known for its wrinkle-fighting properties and ability to soothe sunburn with essential vitamins and minerals. To ensure your skin's well-being, Skin Saver Barrier Lotion also contains 0.5% Triclosan for its antimicrobial properties.