Skin is quite amazing and, to say the least, you’d be lost without it! It can stretch, it’s waterproof and it repairs and replaces itself. It’s the ultimate fashion accessory… it comes in different colours and one size really does fit all! With all these attributes, our skin care health is of primary importance throughout our lives.

Men’s and women’s skin are fundamentally the same though, while both can experience skin care health issues, women’s skin is often affected more by hormonal changes resulting from menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. Other medical conditions also more commonly affect women causing rashes and skin complaints such as an under-active thyroid or a condition known as lupus.

Both sexes may experience acne, psoriasis or eczema causing skin to become inflamed or sensitive but women may experience acne at the time of their periods or find that eczema actually improves during pregnancy.

Skin conditions can have a number of physical and emotional effects but despite their appearance they are rarely dangerous to health. The exception is skin cancers which may be treatable but should be immediately referred to a practitioner for treatment.

Some skin care health problems may also have an impact on hairs and nails (such as psoriasis and lichen planus) but these may have other lifestyle or medical reasons. With any skin care health issue there may be underlying medical issues to consider so, if in doubt, always seek medical advice.