skin and nails

The topic is “кожи и ногтей” which translates to “skin and nails”.

Skin and nails: deep immersion in health and care

I. Fundamentals of anatomy and skin physiology

1. Skin layers: The skin is the largest organ of the human body that performs many important functions. It consists of three main layers: epidermis, dermis and hypoderma (subcutaneous tissue).

   • Epidermis: The outer layer, with a thickness of 0.05 to 1.5 mm, depending on the body. It does not contain blood vessels and consists mainly of keratinocytes, cells producing keratin – protein, which provides strength and waterproof skin. The epidermis is divided into five layers:

     • The horn layer (Stratum corneum): The most outer layer consisting of flat, dead keratinocytes filled with keratin. It acts as a protective barrier, preventing the loss of moisture and the penetration of harmful substances. These cells constantly deserve and are replaced by new ones.
     • Shiny layer (Stratum Lucidum): A thin, transparent layer present only in thick skin, for example, on the palms and soles. It consists of flattened, dead keratinocytes containing eleidine, an intermediate product of keratin.
     • Grain layer (Stratum Granulosum): Consists of keratinocytes containing keratohyalin – protein, predecessor of keratin. In this layer, the process of keratinization begins.
     • Surpable layer (Stratum Spinosum): It consists of several layers of keratinocytes connected by desmosomes (structures that provide communication between cells). Contains Langerganes who are involved in the immune response.
     • Basal layer (Stratum Basale): The deepest layer of the epidermis, consisting of one layer of stem cells, constantly dividing and forming new keratinocytes. Contains melanocytes producing melanin – a pigment that protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation.

   • Dermis: It is located under the epidermis and is a thicker layer containing blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands, as well as collagen and elastin, giving the skin strength and elasticity. Derma is divided into two layers:

     • Sosochka layer (Stratum papillare): The upper layer of the dermis, characterized by the presence of papillae that led into the epidermis. Contains capillaries and nerve endings.
     • Mesh layer (Stratum Reticulare): The deeper layer of the dermis, consisting of dense connective tissue rich in collagen and elastin. Contains hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands.

   • Hypoderm (subcutaneous tissue): The deepest layer of the skin, consisting mainly of adipose tissue. It serves as an insulator, a shock absorber and a supply of energy. The thickness of the hypoderm varies depending on the body and individual characteristics.

2. Skin functions: The skin performs a wide range of vital functions:

   • Protection: The skin is a barrier that protects the body from mechanical damage, infections, ultraviolet radiation and chemicals.
   • Temperature regulation: The skin helps maintain constant body temperature due to sweating and changing the diameter of blood vessels.
   • Sensitivity: The skin contains many nerve endings that allow you to feel touch, pressure, pain, temperature and itching.
   • Vitamin D: The skin synthesizes vitamin D under the influence of sunlight.
   • Exciting function: The skin removes metabolic products through sweat.
   • Immune function: The skin contains Langerganes cells involved in the immune response.

3. Skin types: There are several basic types of skin, depending on the level of moisture and the production of skin fat:

   • Normal skin: Well -moistened, has a smooth texture, even tone and little noticeable pores.
   • Dry skin: Not enough moisturized, it can be peeling, itching and prone to irritation.
   • Burnic leather: Excessively produces skin lard, has a brilliant look, expanded pores and is prone to acne.
   • Combined skin: It has different types of skin in different areas of the face, usually oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and normal or dry on the cheeks.
   • Sensitive skin: Prone to irritation, redness and itching in response to various factors, such as cosmetics, sun or cold.

4. Factors affecting the health of the skin: The skin condition is affected by numerous factors, both internal and external:

   • Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays an important role in determining the type of skin, its sensitivity and a tendency to certain diseases.
   • Age: With age, the skin loses collagen and elastin, becomes thinner, dry and more prone to the formation of wrinkles.
   • Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menopause or taking hormonal drugs, can affect the condition of the skin.
   • Nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, is necessary for the health of the skin.
   • Dream: The lack of sleep can lead to stress, which can negatively affect the condition of the skin.
   • Solar radiation: Long -term exposure to solar radiation is one of the main causes of premature aging of the skin, the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, and also increases the risk of skin cancer.
   • Smoking: Smoking damages collagen and elastin, worsens the blood supply to the skin and contributes to its premature aging.
   • Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can dehydrate the skin and cause inflammation.
   • Stress: Stress can cause various skin diseases, such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.
   • Environment: Air pollution, dry air and temperature changes can negatively affect the condition of the skin.
   • Cosmetics: The wrong choice of cosmetics or its improper use can cause irritation, allergic reactions and other skin problems.

II. Fundamentals of anatomy and physiology of nails

1. The structure of the nail: The nail consists of several parts:

   • Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consisting of tightly compressed keratinocytes.
   • Nail bed: The skin under the nail plate to which it is attached.
   • Matrix: The area under the proximal nail fold, where the nail is growth. Matrix cells are divided and moved forward, forming a nail plate.
   • Lunked: The white semi -moon region at the base of the nail, which is a visible part of the matrix.
   • Nail fold: The skin surrounding the nail on three sides.
   • Eponichia (cuticle): A thin strip of skin covering the base of the nail and protects the matrix from infections.
   • Hyponichia: The skin under the free edge of the nail, preventing the penetration of infections under the nail.

2. Nail functions: Nails perform several important functions:

   • Protection: Nails protect the fingertips from damage.
   • Improving tactile sensitivity: Nails help improve tactile sensitivity of the fingers, allowing us to feel objects better.
   • Tool: Nails can be used as a tool for various tasks, such as scratching, separation of objects, etc.

3. Nail growth: Nails grow continuously, about 0.1 mm per day. The nails in the hands grow faster than the nails on the legs. The full update of the nail plate on the hands takes about 6 months, and on the legs – about 12 months. The growth rate of nails can depend on age, nutrition, health and other factors.

4. Factors affecting the health of the nails: The condition of the nails is affected by many factors, both internal and external:

   • Genetics: A genetic predisposition can affect the shape, thickness and growth rate of nails.
   • Age: With age, the nails become thinner, more brittle and more slowly.
   • Nutrition: The lack of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, biotin and vitamin D, can lead to weakness and fragility of nails.
   • Health: Some diseases, such as anemia, thyroid diseases and fungal infections, can affect the condition of the nails.
   • Injuries: Nail injuries can lead to their deformation and deceleration of growth.
   • The effect of chemicals: Frequent contact with aggressive chemicals, such as detergents and solvents, can damage the nails and make them brittle.
   • Manicure and pedicure: Incorrect manicure and pedicures, for example, the use of aggressive varnishes and varnish remedies, can damage the nails.
   • Excessive hand washing: Frequent washing of hands, especially using aggressive soap, can dry the nails and make them brittle.

III. Common diseases of the skin and nails

1. Skin diseases:

   • Acne (acne): Chronic inflammatory skin disease, characterized by the appearance of comedones (black dots and white acne), papules (red tubercles), pustules (abscesses) and cysts. Acne is most often found on the face, back and chest. The causes of acne include excessive sebum production, cornering of pores, propagation of Propionibacterium Acnes and inflammation bacteria.
   • Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Chronic inflammatory skin disease, characterized by itching, dryness, redness and formation of rashes. Eczema is often found in children and can be associated with allergies and genetic predisposition.
   • Psoriasis: Chronic autoimmune skin disease, characterized by the appearance of red, flaky spots covered with silver scales. Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but is most often found on elbows, knees, scalp and nails.
   • Rosacea: Chronic inflammatory skin disease, characterized by redness of the face, the appearance of small vessels (telangiectasias) and pustules. Rosacea is more common in middle -aged women with fair skin.
   • Fungal skin infections (dermatomycosis): Skin infections caused by fungi. The most common fungal skin infections include cutting lichen, mycosis of the stop (foot of the athlete) and candidiasis of the skin.
   • Viral skin infections: Skin infections caused by viruses. The most common viral skin infections include herpes, warts and contagious mollusk.
   • Skin cancer: The most common type of cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell cancer, flat cell cancer and melanoma. The main risk factor for the development of skin cancer is the effect of solar radiation.
   • Hives: An allergic skin reaction characterized by the appearance of itchy, red blisters. Urticaria can be caused by various factors, such as food products, medicines, insect bites and physical factors.
   • Seborrheic dermatitis: Inflammatory skin disease, characterized by the appearance of flaky, oily scales on the scalp, face and upper body. Seborrheic dermatitis is often found in infants and adults.

2. Nail diseases:

   • Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection): Nail infection caused by fungi. Onychomycosis leads to thickening, deformation and a change in nail color.
   • Survival of the nail: A condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. The growing of the nail is most often found on the thumbs.
   • Paroniyies: Skin infection around the nail. Paronichia can be caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses.
   • Browneness of nails (onycholysis): A condition in which the nails become thin, brittle and easily break.
   • Bo Lines: Horizontal recesses on the nails, which can be caused by stress, illness or injury.
   • Nail deformation: A change in the shape of the nails, which can be caused by various factors, such as trauma, infection or disease.
   • Perenopharyngeal hematoma: The hemorrhage under the nail, which can be caused by injury.
   • Yellow nail syndrome: A rare disease characterized by yellow, thickened nails, lymphedus and diseases of the respiratory system.

IV. Skin care: health and beauty guide

1. Cleansing: Regular skin cleansing is necessary to remove pollution, excess sebum and makeup. Choose a cleanser suitable for your skin type. Avoid aggressive cleansers that can dry and irritate the skin.

2. Toning: Toning helps to balance pH of the skin and prepare it for moisturizers. Choose a tonic that does not contain alcohol to avoid overdrying the skin.

3. Moisturization: Moisturization is necessary to maintain the water balance of the skin and prevent dryness and peeling. Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. For dry skin, more dense and saturated creams are suitable, and for oily skin – light lotions or gels.

4. Sun protection: The use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is necessary to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Apply sunscreen to all open areas of the skin 15-30 minutes before the sun and repeat the application every two hours or after bathing or sweating.

5. Exfoliation (exfoliation): Escaping helps to remove dead skin cells, improve its texture and color, as well as stimulate cell renewal. There are two main types of exfoliation:

   • Physical exfoliation: The use of scrubs, brushes or sponges to remove dead skin cells.
   • Chemical exfoliation: The use of acids (for example, glycol, salicylic or milk) to dissolve dead skin cells. Do not overdo it with exfoliation, as this can lead to skin irritation.

6. Skin nutrition: The use of serums, oils and masks helps to nourish the skin with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Choose products containing ingredients that are useful for your skin type.

7. Facial massage: Regular face massage helps to improve blood circulation, reduce swelling and tighten the skin.

8. Proper nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, is necessary for the health of the skin. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low -fat protein in your diet.

9. Sufficient amount of sleep: The lack of sleep can lead to stress, which can negatively affect the condition of the skin. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

10. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use: Smoking and alcohol can damage the skin and contribute to its premature aging.

11. Stress management: Stress can cause various skin diseases. Use relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing to cope with stress.

12. Consultation with a dermatologist: If you have any skin problems, contact a dermatologist to receive professional consultation and treatment.

V. Failure care: Secrets of beautiful and healthy nails

1. Regular cutting: Regular trimming of nails helps prevent their brittleness and growing. Cut your nails straight, slightly rounding the corners.

2. Moisture use: Regular moisturizing the cuticle with oil or cream helps to prevent its dryness and cracks. Do not cut the cuticle, as this can increase the risk of infection.

3. Protection against chemicals: In contact with aggressive chemicals, such as detergents and solvents, use gloves to protect the nails.

4. Using strengthening varnishes: The use of strengthening varnishes can help strengthen weak and brittle nails.

5. Avoid aggressive varnish removal: Use varnish remedies that do not contain acetone to avoid overdrying nails.

6. Proper nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is necessary for the health of nails. Include products rich in biotin, zinc, iron and vitamin D. in your diet.

7. Avoid nail injuries: Try to avoid injuries of nails, as this can lead to their deformation and a slowdown in growth.

8. Do not bite your nails: Nail biting can damage them and increase the risk of infection.

9. Drink enough water: A sufficient amount of water helps moisturize the nails from the inside.

10. Let the nails take a break from the varnish: Regularly take breaks in the use of varnish to give nails the opportunity to breathe.

11. Consultation with a doctor: If you have any problems with nails, consult a doctor to receive professional consultation and treatment.

VI. Cosmetic procedures for skin and nails

1. Cosmetic procedures for the skin:

   • Cleaning faces: The procedure aimed at removing pollution, excess sebum and comedones. There are several types of facial cleansing, including mechanical, ultrasonic and vacuum.
   • Peelings: Procedures aimed at exfoliating dead skin cells. There are several types of peels, including superficial, median and deep.
   • Micodermabrase: The procedure in which a device with microcrystals is used to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell renewal.
   • Mesotherapy: A procedure in which small doses of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other beneficial substances are introduced into the skin.
   • Biorevitalization: The procedure in which hyaluronic acid is introduced into the skin to moisturize and rejuvenate the skin.
   • Contour plastic: The procedure in which the shape of the face is adjusted with the help of fillers injections and wrinkles are smoothed.
   • Botulinotherapy: The procedure in which botulinum to smoothing facial wrinkles is introduced into the muscles of the face.
   • Laser rejuvenation: The procedure in which a laser is used to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin and improve the texture and color of the skin.
   • Photography: A procedure in which intensive impulse light (IPL) is used to improve texture and skin color, reduce pigmentation and vascular stars.

2. Cosmetics for nails:

   • Manicure: The procedure for caring for the nails of the hands, including cutting, giving shape, polishing and applying varnish.
   • Pedicure: The procedure for caring for nails of the legs, including cutting, giving shape, removing corns and corns, polishing and applying varnish.
   • Nail extension: The procedure in which artificial materials (for example, acrylic or gel) are applied to the nails for lengthening and strengthening nails.
   • Coating gel varnish: The procedure in which gel polish is applied to the nails, which hardens under the influence of an ultraviolet lamp and lasts longer than the usual varnish.
   • SPA procedures for arms and legs: Procedures that include peeling, massage, masks and moisturizing the skin of the arms and legs.

VII. Tips for choosing cosmetics for skin and nails

1. Determine your skin type: Before choosing cosmetics, it is important to determine your skin type (normal, dry, oily, combined or sensitive).

2. Read the composition: Carefully read the composition of cosmetics and avoid products containing aggressive chemicals, such as parabens, sulfates and flulators.

3. Choose products suitable for your age: Over time, the needs of the skin change, so it is important to choose cosmetics corresponding to your age.

4. Test the product: Before buying a new cosmetic product, test it on a small area of ​​the skin to make sure that it does not cause an allergic reaction.

5. Do not use overdue cosmetics: The shelf life of cosmetics is limited, so do not use overdue cosmetics, as this can lead to irritation of the skin or infection.

6. Do not share your cosmetics with others: The joint use of cosmetics can lead to the spread of bacteria and infections.

7. Use sunscreen: Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even in cloudy weather.

8. Choose products with natural ingredients: Products with natural ingredients are usually softer and safe for the skin.

9. Contact the dermatologist: If you have any questions about the choice of cosmetics, contact a dermatologist to receive a professional consultation.

10. Do not buy fakes: Buy cosmetics only in trusted stores and pharmacies to avoid buying fakes that can be dangerous to health.

VIII. Diet and lifestyle for health and nail health

1. Balanced nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, is necessary for the health of the skin and nails.

2. Products that are useful for the skin:

   • Fat fish: Contains omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and improve skin moisture.
   • Avocado: Contains useful fats, vitamin E and antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage.
   • Nuts and seeds: Contain vitamin E, zinc and selenium, which are important to the health of the skin.
   • Fruits and vegetables: They contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage and improve its color.
   • Green tea: Contains antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage and reduce inflammation.

3. Failure products:

   • Eggs: Contain biotin, which is important for the health of nails.
   • Dairy products: Contain calcium, which is necessary to strengthen nails.
   • Meat: Contains iron, which is necessary for the health of the nails.
   • Vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C: Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, which is important for the health of nails.

4. Sufficient amount of water: Drink enough water (at least 8 glasses per day) to moisten the skin and nails from the inside.

5. Sufficient amount of sleep: Sleep at least 7-8 hours a day to give the skin and nails the opportunity to recover.

6. Stress management: Try to avoid stress, as it can negatively affect the condition of the skin and nails. Use relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing to cope with stress.

7. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use: Smoking and alcohol can damage the skin and nails.

8. Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises help improve blood circulation, which is useful for the health of the skin and nails.

9. Avoid prolonged exposure to solar radiation: Long -term exposure to solar radiation can damage the skin and nails. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothes when you are in the sun.

10. Regular medical examinations: Pass medical examinations regularly to identify and treat any diseases that can affect the condition of the skin and nails.