Skin is the largest organ in the human body and is essential for survival. Skin protects us from the outside world, keeps us from drying out, and enables us to experience the world through touch. Our skin is what others see when they look at us.

Skin is not just a wrapping. It is alive, and does many things. For example, skin color changes in response to sunlight to regulate the amount of the sun’s radiation that reaches our bodies. Sunlight on skin helps us to make Vitamin D. Skin is the first line in our immune defense against germs, and its ability to repair itself protects us from cuts, bites, burns, and punctures. Heat gain and loss through skin, often assisted by sweating, helps control our body temperature. A healthy skin reflects a healthy body.

Our skin is under daily assault and is constantly repairing itself from injuries great and small. As we age, skin loses its ability to retain water, becomes thinner, dries out, and becomes less elastic. Subcutaneous fat is lost, and wrinkles form. Sunlight and cigarettes accelerate these effects. Protecting skin from harsh sunlight helps prevent it from aging.

Acne, a localized skin infection, is a frequent problem. While once most common in teenagers, acne is also a problem for many adults, especially women. Acne occurs when oil-producing glands of the skin become blocked, inhibiting release of natural protective oils to the skin surface. Skin bacteria then grow in these blocked glands to produce acne. Most acne treatments are designed to control excess oil production and/or prevent or treat bacterial infection.