Glossar

Referring to aqueous solutions: pH value < 7

A slightly acid layer on the human skin, formed by the excretions of the skin glands (sebum, sweat) and the skin flora (microorganisms which naturally reside on the skin surface), pH value approx. 5.5 which protects against pathogenic organisms and alkaline substances.

A form of acne. Its symptoms are frequently serious infections of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles in locations that are not typical for other types of acne: axillae, groin area and anal fold.

pH Value; opposite of acid, pH value > 7

A substance which can trigger an allergy. Pollen, cat hair and certain chemicals are known allergens.

Hyperreaction of the body to an allergenic substance, in this case the body responds with the skin, that is with dermatitis.

Also: anaphylactic shock. The allergic shock is the strongest allergic reaction. The organism’s response to a certain substance is so strong that vital functions can be affected, such as blood circulation or breathing.

Hyperreaction of the body to natural substances (pollen, cat, latex etc.) or artificial substances (e.g. chemicals). The immune system registers the substance as foreign, hostile and triggers a defensive mechanism, e.g. sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath (> immediate type reaction), redness of the skin, vesicles, dermatitis (> late type reaction).

Sexual practice where the penis penetrates into the rectum of the male or female partner.

Male sexual hormones which stimulate the sebaceous glands. They are present in men and women (see hormones)

Drugs used to treat bacterial infections

Fights germ colonisation and spread of these

see neurodermatitis

Inherited disposition to become ill with one or more of the following atopic diseases: allergic asthma, allergic hayfever or eczema (atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis)