The condition of the skin is not only an indication of existing diseases. The skin also plays a primary role in connection with the aesthetics and visual appearance of a person. In addition, the skin performs numerous functions.
What is the skin?
Schematic diagram showing the anatomy and structure of the skin. The skin is a sensitive organ. Daily care and medical precautions help against skin aging and skin diseases. Click to enlarge. The skin is a natural cover, which consists of several layers. It surrounds not only the externally visible part of the body. The skin is an organ that also lines or envelops many internal organs. It is also known as cutis or derma in medicine. On the skin there is a visible layer of microorganisms, which is technically correctly called skin flora. An intact skin flora is the prerequisite for healthy skin and its unrestricted functionality as well as beauty. In addition, the skin, like any organ, is subject to natural aging processes and can become diseased due to various influences.
Anatomy and structure
Surely many people already know that the skin is a complex of different layers, which in turn consist of different tissues and these in turn consist of varying cells. If the skin were cut through, could be seen in cross-section first the outer skin layer is the epidermis. Below this, the second layer of the skin is the dermis, whose name corium is also correct. The lowest layer of the skin is the hypodermis or sub (-under) cutis. Within the structures of the skin, another anatomical medium can be recognized. The fibrous collagen substance gives the skin its limited elasticity and resistance. The individual layers of the skin remain intact for a lifetime. The skin renews itself by the fact that the keratinized and no longer functional skin cells simply fall off.
Functions and tasks
When it comes to the function of the skin, it comes down to several areas. The natural covering holds the entire body together, both inside and out, and also performs a number of protective functions. When the skin is intact, it is considered an ideal shield against low and high outside temperatures. The skin thus plays an essential role in the “air conditioning” of the organism. It can release excess energy when overheated and retain heat when undercooled. The skin is thus an important temperature regulator. The skin provides further protection against UV radiation, against mechanical influences and chemical substances. In addition, the skin serves to a certain extent as a “sliding organ” and for moistening in the form of the mucous membranes. In addition, the skin provides a natural barrier against the loss of fluid and prevents the access of microorganisms. Within the sensory organs, humans are able to feel movement and pain through the skin via receptors located in the nerves. Temperature differences and deviating pressures are received through the skin. The skin is used like a feeler when touching. In addition, the skin is constantly engaged in its repair.
Diseases
As reliable as the skin is, it is equally vulnerable. A whole range of diseases of the skin are treated in dermatology. These include both defects of the skin acquired during life and congenital defects or diseases. Skin diseases are characterized by various complaints that include dandruff, annoying itching, redness, scabbing, oozing, wheals, papules, pustules and rashes. The classic diseases of the skin include shingles, neurodermatitis, psoriasis, acne, fungal diseases, heroes, eczema, warts and port-wine stain. The individual skin diseases are characterized by different courses and show a more or less good prognosis. The skin is extremely sensitive to abnormal changes in the organism. These can lead to diseases of the skin on physical or psychological impairment. The vaginal fungus, thrush, a hyperhidrosis and a hair loss are also considered diseases of the skin. Individual diseases of the skin refer in particular to the mucous membranes or only special skin tissues. A variety of diseases of the skin can already be hereditary or genetic.In addition, some skin conditions do not develop until adulthood.
Typical and common diseases
- Vitiligo (white spot disease).
- Skin rash
- Skin fungus
- Rosacea (rosacea)
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Skin cancer
