Skin is more than what meets the eye — it’s the biggest organ of the body that plays an indispensable role in protecting against environmental hazards, regulating temperature and providing sensory experiences that enrich daily life. And that’s just to name a few.

Skin is the body’s first line of defense and it’s important to understand how it works. There are three layers of skin and each play a critical role in protecting one’s body.

Epidermis

The visible outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis, guards against moisture loss and harmful substances such as bacteria and allergens. It houses the cells responsible for producing melanin which gives skin and hair their color. If these cells are damaged, it can lead to skin cancer.

Dermis

The next layer is the dermis, containing sweat and oil glands, hair follicles, blood vessels and lymph vessels. It also produces collagen and elastin fibers, providing structure, elasticity and the ability for the skin to stretch.

Hypodermis

The hypodermis is the deepest layer of skin. It attaches to bone and muscle, providing cushioning and insulation for the body.

Oftentimes, changes in the skin can be an indicator of something happening within one’s body. Developing a healthy skincare routine consists of more than just applying products — it involves a mindful approach. Take a look at these six tips to help maintain healthy skin.

1. Protect skin from the sun.

• Choose a waterproof sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. For the best protection, “broad spectrum” sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside to allow time for absorption, reapplying every 90 minutes and after swimming, sweating or toweling off.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection, long-sleeved shirts, lightweight pants, and a broad-brimmed hat for added protection from the sun.

2. Avoid smoking.

• Smoking reduces blood flow and deprives the skin of oxygen and essential nutrients critical for maintaining skin health, it can also increase the risk of certain skin cancers.
• Sutter Health Plus covers a variety of preventive care services at no cost share including smoking cessation interventions. Members can access health coaches for guidance and support in quitting. Learn more about Sutter’s Health Coaching Program by calling 844-987-6095 or visiting sutterhealthplus.org/wellness.

3. Treat skin with care.

• Extended exposure to hot water can strip natural oils from your skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Limiting bath or shower time and using warm water instead of hot helps retain skin moisture.
• Harsh soaps and detergents can be abrasive and strip away the skin’s natural oils, causing dryness and sensitivity, opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers that are gentle on the skin.
• For dry skin, use a moisturizer suitable for your skin type that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help retain moisture.

4. Maintain a healthy diet.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein supports overall health, including the skin.
• Food allergies may cause skin flareups. Sutter Health Plus covers allergy services for members, including testing and injections, when medically necessary and referred by a primary care physician.

5. Manage stress effectively.

• Effective stress management contributes to both healthy skin and mental well-being.
• Adequate sleep, setting reasonable limits, prioritizing tasks, and making time for enjoyable activities are all beneficial for a healthy state of mind.
• For support, members may self-refer to in-person or virtual visits with participating behavioral health providers through U.S. Behavioral Health Plan, California. Learn more at Live and Work Well.

6. Perform regular skin checks.

• Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the U.S., affecting 1 in 5 Americans during their lifetime.
• Most types of skin cancer can be cured if detected early when they may be most treatable. Conducting regular self-examinations of the skin to identify any new spots, changes in existing moles, or abnormal growths is essential to early detection. Consulting with a physician is advised if any suspicious skin changes are noticed.

Understanding and caring for the skin not only enhances its role as the body’s primary defense against environmental factors, but also serves as an indicator of overall health and well-being. Members have convenient access to manage many aspects of their care, including scheduling annual physicals, prioritizing regular skin checks, and arranging same-day in-person or virtual visits with participating providers. Stay connected with a care team through My Health Online, Sutter’s secure patient portal. Login or sign up to make an appointment.