Read the given passage and answer the four questions that follow:-
More than Skin Deep
Our skin is not just our biggest organ, but also the one we're most familiar with. We look at it constantly, touch it, wash it, inspect it and yet when we consider looking after it, our minds often jump to aesthetics. We are inundated with ads for lotions and potions that promise to enhance our appearance, as if physical appeal is all that matters about this special organ. There are many other reasons to take care of our complexion besides cosmetic concerns. However, its condition can have knock-on effects on the rest of the body due to the dense thicket of blood vessels running under the surface. Inflammation that starts in the skin can easily spread to the heart and the brain, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia. Wrinkles are not just a projection of our age; they can drive the aging process. We should think of skin care in the same way as exercise, and do it not just for looks, but for the undeniable health benefits. Ensuring our epidermis is in excellent condition should be a priority for anyone who wants to increase the chances of living a long life.
Research on skin care is shifting from marketing to scientific study. Certain foods can reduce damage from pollution and UV rays, while regular contact with nature may nurture the skin's microbiome. This scientific approach helps assess trends and make informed decisions about using goods and services with proven benefits beyond claims of quick fixes, protecting our bodies from the outside.
According to the passage, what role does nature play in skin care?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → It can strengthen and nurture the skin's microbiome, promoting overall health.
The second paragraph says that regular contact with nature may nurture the skin's microbiome (the community of helpful microbes living on the skin). A healthy microbiome keeps the skin healthy, and the passage has already linked skin health to the health of the whole body. So nature's role is to nurture the skin's microbiome.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: It shields the skin from exposure to pollutants and harmful UV rays. — Incorrect. Wrong link: the passage gives this role to certain foods, which "can reduce damage from pollution and UV rays". Nature is linked only to the microbiome.
Option 3: It has no positive or negative bearing on skin health. — Incorrect. Contradicted: the passage says that contact with nature may nurture the skin.
Option 4: It heals skin injuries and is a source of immediate skin enhancement. — Incorrect. Not mentioned: the passage says nothing about healing injuries, and it in fact turns away from "claims of quick fixes", so it promises no immediate results.