Skin is the body's largest organ of the integumentary system; the average person the skin measures between 16-21.5 sq ft.. Skin has pigmentation or melanin, which absorbs potentially dangerous ultraviolet radiation. It also contains DNA enzymes that help repair UV damage. People who lack the genes for these enzymes suffer high rates of skin cancer. Skin serves several basic functions.
Protects underlying muscles, bones, ligaments and internal organs. It's an anatomical barrier that keeps out pathogens between our internal and external environment
Sensation contains nerve endings that respond to heat/cold, touch, pressure, and injury.
Heat regulation the skin contains a blood supply that allows control of energy loss by radiation, convection and conduction.
Excretion sweating allows us to get rid of metabolic waste products.
Synthesis and storage the sun blesses us with vitamin D, the skin synthesizes it and stores lipids and water.
Absorption of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide can diffuse into the dermis. Medicine can be administered through the skin by ointments, poultices, and iontophoresis.
Skin conveys messages to others about our mood and physical state. As we age skin loses its elasticity, becomes thinner, and more easily damaged. Cortisol is released when we are stressed, this causes breakdown of collagen and accelerates aging. So relax, get a massage today and enjoy the benefits of Boomerang Botanicals cosmetic grade macadamia oil from the dewy rain-forest of Australia, where macadamias were born.
Be happy in your skin!
