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REVIEW PAPER
Fit body, fit skin – the multifaceted effects of physical activity on the skin
 
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1
Provincial Specialist Hospital No. 5, St. Barbara in Sosnowiec, Sosnowiec, Poland
 
2
Independent Public Health Care Facility, Municipal Hospital Complex in Chorzów, Poland
 
3
University Clinical Hospital of the Military Medical Academy – Central Veterans’ Hospital, Łódź, Poland
 
These authors had equal contribution to this work
 
 
Corresponding author
Martyna Kubicka - Figiel   

Provincial Specialist Hospital No. 5, St. Barbara in Sosnowiec, Plac Medyków 1, 41-200, Sosnowiec, Polska
 
 
Med Srod. 2024;27(1):32-35
 
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction and objective:
It is widely recognized that engaging in regular physical activity has a profound positive impact on overall bodily health. Skeletal muscles have been identified as an endocrine organ, exerting influence not only on nearby structures but also on distant organs and tissues through the release of myokines during exercise. Furthermore, studies indicate that physical activity exerts multifaceted effects on the skin. The aim of this study was to systematically review recent literature to examine the influence of physical activity on skin health.

Brief description of the state of knowledge:
Existing studies consistently demonstrate that physical activity serves to decelerate the aging process of the skin, expedite wound healing, potentially exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, and consequently lower the risk of specific skin diseases. Conversely, reports suggest that exercise might contribute to the aggravation of certain skin conditions by elevating skin temperature and activating sweat glands. Additionally, engaging in physical activity is associated with a reduction in the accumulation of glycation end products in the skin of individuals with diabetes, effectively preventing late complications associated with the disease.

Summary:
Currently, there are few studies focusing on the effects of physical activity on the skin. Thus, it is likely that all the skin benefits of exercise have not been explored. Nor are all the mechanisms klnown by which physical activity affects the skin. Further research exploring this topic is therefore needed. Additionally, efforts are required to increase public awareness about the health impacts of physical activity and promote regular engagement in physical exercise.

 
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