John E. Oblong and Cheri Millikin
The Procter and Gamble Company, Cincinnati, OH, USA
|
2.1 |
Introduction |
37 |
|
2.2 |
Basics of Skin Physiology |
38 |
|
2.3 |
Changes in Skin Structure and Integrity as a Function of Environment and Aging |
41 |
|
2.4 |
Photodamage to Skin |
43 |
|
2.5 |
Intrinsic Aging of Skin |
45 |
|
2.6 |
Treatment Effects |
46 |
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References |
47 |
The human skin is the body’s largest organ and serves critical functions such as acting as the first line of defense from daily exposure to environmental insults (ranging from microorganisms to irradiation to pollutants), helping to regulate the body’s internal core temperature and water content, as well as providing rudimentary support and sensory interface with the outside world. This totally integrated structure serves the body’s unique needs for maintaining its integrity, functionality, and defenses from the environment. However, in this capacity, the skin undergoes some of the most challenging conditions in the body, and its ability to respond to these challenges highlights the unique properties that it possesses. This chapter will provide a general overview of skin physiology and biochemical processes that regulate skin health and appearance. In addition, the changes that take place in skin as a function of aging and environmental insults from chronic UV damage are described.
Gurpreet S. Ahluwalia (ed.), Cosmetic Applications of Laser and Light-Based Systems, 37-48,
© 2009 William Andrew Inc.