<Things you should know> The correct knowledge about "skin problems": Causes, symptoms, and treatments for "skin problems" What is skin irritation? Symptoms (diseases) of rough skin How skin problems are caused Causes of skin irritation How to treat and prevent skin problems Many people have likely experienced skin problems, especially on their face, such as rough skin. This article will explain the structure of the skin, what causes rough skin, and what preventative and treatment methods are available. What is skin irritation? Even though we use the single term "skin irritation," the symptoms and causes of skin problems vary widely. Here, we will explain skin irritation as "a condition that occurs on the skin surface due to the skin's barrier function not working properly."The skin's barrier function is provided by the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. When this barrier function works properly, it prevents moisture from escaping the body and protects against harmful substances such as ultraviolet rays and external microorganisms and pathogens entering the body.Now, let's take a closer look at what happens to the skin when this barrier function stops working properly. Symptoms (diseases) of rough skin The skin's barrier function is composed of various elements in the stratum corneum, and when abnormalities occur in this area, the following symptoms may appear. dry Turns red It causes itching Pimples appear It becomes stiff and rough. The skin peels off in flakes. The following are some of the main diseases that cause the symptoms described above.It should be noted that these diseases are not caused solely by a malfunction of the skin's barrier function; they often develop due to a combination of various other factors. xeroderma(Click here for more information about xerosis) Seborrheic dermatitis(Click here for more information about asteatotic eczema) seborrheic dermatitis(Click here for more information about seborrheic dermatitis) irritant contact dermatitis(Click here for more information about irritant contact dermatitis) Acne(Click here for more information about acne) Atopic dermatitis(Click here for more information about atopic dermatitis) How skin problems are caused Skin problems are caused by a complex interplay of various factors. This article explains some of the typical mechanisms by which skin problems occur. Decreased barrier function due to disrupted cell turnover First, let's explain the structure of the epidermis, which makes up the skin's barrier function.In the basal layer, the deepest layer of the epidermis, cell division is active, and cells called keratinocytes are born. These keratinocytes grow as they are pushed upward by the new keratinocytes that are born one after another, reaching the stratum corneum (outermost layer of the epidermis), and then they flake off as what is commonly known as "dead skin cells."The metabolic period from the birth of these keratinocytes to their shedding is called "turnover," and in normal skin, this period is said to be about 4 to 6 weeks. When skin cell turnover is functioning properly, the stratum corneum acts as a "barrier," retaining moisture in the body and preventing external invaders from entering. However, when this process malfunctions, cells reach the stratum corneum before they are fully formed, resulting in insufficient moisturizing function and the retention of dead skin cells that should be shed. When this happens, the skin surface becomes hard, develops a flaky appearance, and becomes prone to acne and breakouts—in other words, it becomes "rough."There are various causes of disrupted skin cell turnover, and aging is one of them. As we age, the turnover cycle lengthens, causing aged cells to remain in the stratum corneum for longer. Aged cells have a weaker barrier function, making the skin more prone to problems. A prime example of this is dry skin. Severe dryness can cause itching, and scratching can damage the skin surface or allow bacteria to enter, further worsening skin problems. skin immunity As explained earlier, the skin literally acts as a barrier against the invasion of microorganisms and pathogens from the outside. However, if this barrier function breaks down, allowing microorganisms and pathogens to enter the body and cause harm, the body's "immune system" begins to work to eliminate them. As part of the immune system's work, inflammatory reactions (redness, swelling, fever, pain, itching, etc.) may occur in the skin, which ultimately manifests as skin irritation. Inflammation and eczema caused by allergic reactions are also part of the skin's immune system's function. Causes of skin irritation We've explained that skin problems occur when the skin's barrier function weakens or stops working properly due to a disruption in cell turnover. So, what causes these problems with cell turnover and the skin's barrier function? A variety of factors are involved. The most common ones are as follows: Temperature/humidity decrease UV rays Lack of sleep, overwork Nutritional deficiency Changes in hormone balance (menstruation/pregnancy/childbirth) smoking Washing your face/bathing too much, scrubbing too hard Dirt and germs can adhere to surfaces from touching with hands. Physical stimulation such as scratching and rubbing Psychological/mental stress When irritants (such as dust, pollen, microorganisms, cosmetics, shampoos, detergents, and clothing fibers) enter the skin while its barrier function is weakened due to these reasons, inflammation occurs, resulting in a condition called "skin irritation."Modern lifestyles, which tend to be irregular, often involve insufficient rest leading to accumulated fatigue and high levels of psychological and mental stress, create an environment where skin problems are more likely to occur. How to treat and prevent skin problems As explained in the section on "Causes of Skin Problems," there are many conditions in modern environments that make skin problems more likely, so prevention and treatment are not easy. Nevertheless, to minimize skin problems, try to improve your lifestyle by paying attention to the following points. Basic prevention and treatment methods for skin problems Review your cosmetics/skincare products. I recommend moisturizers containing ingredients that improve the skin's barrier function, such as heparinoid. These come in various textures, including creams and lotions, and are available at drugstores and other retailers, so choose one that suits your skin type. Make sure to use the correct face-washing method, and moisturize thoroughly after washing your face. Over-washing, scrubbing vigorously with a towel, or excessive rubbing can cause skin problems. Avoid physical irritation as much as possible, and wash with lukewarm water (around 32°C to 33°C) that feels comfortable rather than hot water. After washing, it is important to moisturize thoroughly. Nutritionally balanced meals The skin is a large organ that covers the entire surface of the body, and its turnover (metabolism) is very active. Therefore, it requires a large number and quantity of nutrients. Specific nutrients include protein, vitamins (B2, C, A, E, beta-carotene), and minerals (zinc, selenium). Since many nutrients are needed, it's not about consciously consuming specific foods, but rather about having a well-balanced diet. In addition, hydration is just as important as diet. Using medicine or supplements Ideally, the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy skin should be obtained through diet, but this is not always easy. In such cases, it's a good idea to skillfully incorporate medications and supplements that are suited to the symptoms and condition of your skin. Regular exercise Moderate exercise helps regulate the autonomic nervous system and has a positive effect on intestinal activity. Strengthening the psoas muscle, an inner muscle that connects the spine to the pelvis, can also help relieve constipation. Try incorporating walking and stretching into your daily life and make regular exercise a habit. Improve the intestinal environment The intestines are home to 60-70% of the body's immune system. When the balance of bacteria in the intestines (beneficial bacteria, harmful bacteria, and opportunistic bacteria—bacteria that are neither good nor bad) is disrupted and harmful bacteria increase, intestinal movement is inhibited, making it difficult for food to be absorbed, and leading to various health problems. Skin problems are one of them. Consuming dietary fiber and lactic acid bacteria can increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, and improving the intestinal environment can help prevent skin problems. Avoid accumulating psychological/mental stress. When you experience psychological or mental stress, your body is in a state of tension. This means that the sympathetic nervous system, a part of the autonomic nervous system, is activated, which suppresses the movement of the stomach and intestines. When gastrointestinal function is suppressed, it can easily lead to gastroenteritis and constipation, and waste products accumulate in the body. In addition, the sympathetic nervous system promotes sebum secretion, which can make you more prone to acne. Acne and other skin problems can become a source of further stress, often leading to a vicious cycle. Make a conscious effort to set aside time to relax. If it doesn't improve or gets worse, go to the hospital. If your skin problems don't improve or worsen even after using over-the-counter medications, there may be an underlying cause. For example, if the inflammation is due to an allergic reaction, the skin problems won't improve unless the substance causing the allergic reaction is identified and removed. Skin problems can also be caused by underlying medical conditions.The appropriate approach would be to first have an examination at a dermatology clinic, and then be referred to a specialist based on the results. We take care to post accurate information,Please point out any incorrect information. Please submit any comments regarding medical information here. Return to the list of guides categorized by health symptoms.