NOT JUST SKIN DEEP

The skin is the largest organ in the body and how to take care of it is best explained by an expert

- Puja Awasthi

Dr Sunil Sanghi, 57, senior consultant, dermatology, studied medicine at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune. A fellow of the American Association of Dermatology, he enjoys playing lawn tennis and table tennis.

BEYOND ‘JUST’ SKIN: The condition of our skin is indicative of overall health. Thus skin which is yellow, blotchy or sallow is indicative of trouble elsewhere. Many diseases like hepatitis first manifest as itching or rashes on the skin. The quest for beauty has shone an even more intense spotlight on it.

THE LOOK OF HEALTH: A healthy skin reflects a healthy body. Such skin is smooth, warm, hydrated and has an even tone. There are five primary skin types: oily, dry, normal, combination and sensitive. Each skin type has its own sets of unique characteristics and needs that can affect the look and feel of your complexion. A balance of oil and moisture leads to blemish-free and smooth skin with fine pores. While genes play a major role in skin type, care routine, sunlight, temperature, stress, hormones, smoking, alcohol and exercise also affect it.

SIGNS THAT ALL IS NOT WELL: Flakes, cracks, rashes or visible hair and nail changes.

NORMAL CHANGE: The skin becomes thinner over time. There is loss of volume, especially in the cheeks, and bags form under the eyes. The effects of aging on the face are inevitable. These changes are normal with time. A newborn has delicate skin, teenagers have acne and the elderly have wrinkles. During pregnancy or rapid weight gain or loss, stretch marks can appear, which, despite the marketing hype, will not go. The marks result from the dermis—the middle layer of the skin—being stretched beyond its capacity and a resultant tear in its fibres.

WHAT IS UNACCEPTABLE: Severe acne leading to scars, rapid wrinkling and loss of volume or early progression of baldness.