As a dermatology practice, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy skin. While many people may view skincare as purely cosmetic, the truth is that healthy skin is essential to overall health and wellness. In this blog post, we’ll explore the medical importance of maintaining healthy skin.
Protection from the environment
Our skin is our body’s first line of defense against the environment. It protects us from harmful UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors that can damage our health. Not only that, skin is a barrier that serves as one of the body’s first lines of defense against harmful microbes, according to the NIH. When our skin is healthy, it’s better equipped to protect us from these threats.
Barrier function
In addition to protecting us from external threats, our skin also serves as a barrier to keep our internal systems functioning properly. It helps regulate our body temperature, prevents water loss, and keeps harmful bacteria and other substances out of our bodies. When our skin is damaged, this barrier function is compromised, which can lead to a variety of health problems including dry skin, irritation, chronic dermatitis, and other skin issues.
Early detection of health issues
Many health conditions can manifest themselves through changes in the skin. For example, certain types of rashes can indicate autoimmune disorders, while changes in pigmentation can be a sign of skin cancer. According to this article from TheHealthy.com, medical dermatologists are seeing an increase in skin issues, especially related to immune system problems. These include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Dermatologists may help discover conditions during routine visits—before a specialist would—which can help patients get treated in earlier stages of illness. By maintaining healthy skin and scheduling regular check-ups with a dermatologist, you can catch these issues early and seek appropriate treatment.
Psychological benefits
It’s no secret that when we look good, we feel good. Healthy skin can improve our self-confidence and overall mental health. On the other hand, skin issues such as acne or psoriasis can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and social isolation.
At SkinMD, we believe in taking a comprehensive approach to skincare. That means not only treating existing skin issues but also educating our patients on the importance of maintaining healthy skin. We offer a range of services to help our patients achieve healthy, beautiful skin, including medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and skin cancer screenings.
Whether you’re dealing with a specific skin issue or simply looking to maintain healthy skin, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve your skincare goals.
