The Skin:Types, Functions, Care of Skin and Skin Infections

Types of Skin

The skin can be classified into five types based on the following factors: These are:

• Amount of sebum (or oil production) on the skin.

• Hydration (or moisture content present in the skin).

• The skin reaction to stimuli.

With regards to the above factors, we have five types of skin. These are:

1. Normal skin

2. Oily skin

3. Dry skin

4. Sensitive skin

5. Combination skin

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The types of skin are explained below:

• Normal Skin

The oil gland (or sebaceous gland) is less active, and as a result, the skin is less oily. A normal skin does not have many skin problems. It is soft, clear, smooth and without spots or blemishes. A normal skin may have few imperfections though.

A normal skin has the right amount of oil and moisture. It is not rough (has a smooth texture) and neither too oily nor dry.

• Dry Skin

This is a thin, rough, full and flaky skin that shows sensitivity, and wrinkles easily, especially around the mouth and eyes. This can result from poor feeding, ill health, dry weather and lack of care.

A dry skin has little or no lipids, and as a result, cannot hold water (moisture).

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• Oily Skin

This skin is usually oily and occurs when the oil gland produces too much oil. This is so because it has enlarged pores and healthy sebaceous gland.

An oily skin has a greasy and shiny appearance. Unfortunately, they are prone to pimples and acne as a result of excess oil or sebum.

• Combination Skin (Oily and Dry Skin)

This type of skin has some part of the skin oily, e.g the nose, chin and forehead, while other parts are dry, eg the legs. It is therefore a mix of oily and dry skin in different regions of the body.

• Sensitive Skin

A sensitive skin is easily irritated. As a result, it can become itchy and red when certain skin products are used on it. This is so because a sensitive skin is very reactive.

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Functions of the Skin

• It acts as an excretory organ through the removal of sweat from the body.

• It regulates the body temparature during cold and hot weather conditions.

• It produces oil which lubricates the body surface.

• It produces vitamin D in the presence of mild ultraviolet radiation.

• The skin protects the body against pathogens, infections and diseases.

• It acts as a sensory receptors for receiving stimulus like touch pressure, pain, heat and cold.

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Care of the Skin

• Bath daily with soap and clean water.

• Keep your towel, underwear and other clothing materials clean.

• Avoid sharing towels or clothing with others.

• Treat skin infections properly.

• Avoid the use of bleaching cream.

• Carry out daily exercises as it boosts blood flow to the skin, while also flushing out toxins. Remember to always have a shower after exercise.

• Apply mild skin cream, moisturizer or oil immediately after bath.

• Eat balanced diet daily. Also eat enough fruits and vegetables.

• Drink enough water to keep the skin hydrated.

• Create time to rest and avoid unnecessary stress. Sleep at least 7 hours daily.

• Avoid the use of drugs, alcohol and cigarettes.

• Avoid excessive ultraviolet radiation on the skin.

• See a dermatologist if the need arises.

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Skin Infections

1. Ringworm

This is caused by the growth of fungi between the inner and outer layers of the skin.

Treatment of Ringworm 

• Apply creams, lotions, or powders containing clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine on the affected area.

• Keep the area clean and dry. Always wash hands thoroughly after touching the affected area.

• Use medicated and antifungal shampoo, e.g ketoconazole. This can help prevent the spread of fungal spores. 

• Do not use corticosteroid creams since they can worsen the fungal infection. 

• See the doctor (Dermatologist).

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Prevention of Ringworm

• Always wear clean underwear. Change stockings and underwear daily.

• Always keep the skin and your surroundings clean.

• Keep you fingernails and toenails short and clean so they don't become a home to fungi.

• Don't scratch the affect area to prevent scarring and spreading. 

• Stay away from contacting infected pets and humans.

• Wash your hand whenever you touch a potentially infected surface. 

• Frequently wash beddings, towels, and clothes in hot water. 

• Disinfect the environment periodically.

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2. Scabies

This is caused by a small insect, e.g mites which pierces the skin. It causes itching and can be transmitted from one person to another through direct contract or by handling infected clothing.

Treatment of Scabies

• Apply creams, lotions, or powders containing permethrin, crotamiton, sulfur ointment or benzyl benzoate on the affected area.

• Use antihistamine drugs to reduce itching.

• Use steroid creams to reduce swelling and redness.

• See a dermatologist.

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Prevention of Scabies

• Avoid sharing clothing, towels or beddings with people.

• Avoid skin to skin contact with anyone having scabies.

• Keep your body and surroundings clean at all time.

• Wear gloves and other protective gears when treating a scabies patient.

• Use of insecticide to kill mites and other insects.

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3. Eczema

This infection causes the skin to become inflamed and gives a burning and itching sensation. It leaves a colour which is different from the natural skin. 

Treatment of Eczema 

• Moisturize the affected skin area after a warm shower.

• Avoid scratching the affected area to prevent redness and spread.

• Create time for rest. Also, carry out exercises like yoga and deep breathing.

• Use antihistamine drugs to reduce severe itching.

• Apply an appropriate cream or ointment containing corticosteroids on the affected area.

• See a dermatologist for immediate treatment.

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Prevention of Eczema 

• Absolute cleanliness of the body and surroundings.

• Use a mild antiseptic soap during showers.

• Apply emollients (or thick moisturizers) after showers to hydrate the skin.

• Use a humidifier in dry environments.

• Do not expose your hands to detergents over a long period of time.

• Create out time to rest, at least seven hours daily.

• Exercises like yoga and deep breathing can prove useful.

• Stay hydrated by drinking enough clean water daily.

• Avoid scratching the affected area so as to prevent further skin damage.

• See see a dermatologist.

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