Skin Integrity is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT for all bodyworkers and massage therapists. According to the CDC, functions of the skin include:
- Protection
- Waterproofing
- Tactile Sensation
- Water Preservation
- Shock Absorption
- Calorie Reservation
- Vitamin D Synthesis
- Temperature Control
- Lubrication
Occupational skin diseases are the second most common type of occupational disease. Occupational skin conditions include:
- Irritant contact dermatitis
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Skin cancers
- Skin infections
- Skin injuries
- Other misc. skin diseases
ALL of the skin conditions listed above affect our natural protection barrier. Causes of occupational skin disease includes:
- Biological Agents: parasites, microorganisms, etc.
- Chemical Agents: cleaners, etc.
- Physical Agents: extreme temperatures, etc.
- Mechanical Trauma: includes friction, pressure, abrasions, lacerations and contusions (scrapes, cuts and bruises).
ALL of the agents listed above plus mechanical trauma can compromise skin integrity. Skin integrity is one of our first and best protection barriers against infection, germs and disease. As bodyworkers and massage therapists, we share frequent and constant contact with other people. As such, it is extremely important to take care of our skin, which includes regularly inspecting it, keeping it clean plus moisturized to preserve healthy intact skin which will provide a constant barrier to foreign invaders, infection and possible/eventual disease.
To learn more, please register for quality, affordable, professional training at: https://ceinstitute.com/
Author Selena Belisle is the Founder of CE Institute LLC in Miami FL. She is a retired professional athlete and has been practicing massage therapy for over 30 years. Selena is an approved CE Provider with NCBTMB & the Florida Board of Massage. She now teaches full time for the Complementary and Alternative Health Care Industries. You can learn more about Selena’s training and CE classes at www.CeInstitute.com
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1 “Skin Exposures and Effects.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 July 2013, Found online July 5, 2020, www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/skin.
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