Skin...what is it really?

The skin is made up of several layers divided into three simpler layers. It's a way to protect ourselves from the outside elements, our body's thermostat and a sensory organ. The three layers are the Epidermis, Dermis, and the subcutaneous Layer.

The Epidermis is the layer of skin we present to the world, the outer most layer. This layer has an additional five layers. This is what I call "the skin factory". The youngest layers are produced at the bottom layer known as the stratum basale. Eventually moving up remaining layers to the stratum corneum. This is where our skin dies and sheds off.

Cells found in the Epidermis are keratinocytes, melonocytes, Langherhan's and Merkel cells. The primary function of keratinocytes is the formation of a barrier against environmental damage such as pathogens (bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses) heat, UV radiation and water loss. Melonocytes produce pigment which gives us our skin color. The less melonocytes you have the easier you get sunburned because you have less of a defense. Langerhan cells are basically the immune system in the skin. They work by ingesting the antigens(i.e. Infection) that get into the skin and present them to immune system cells that fight them off by producing antibodies. As for the Merkel cells, there purpose is unknown, however, they are said to have both sensory and hormonal functions. All this and this is just the outer most layers.

The Dermis contains nerve endings, blood vessels, oil glands, and sweat glands. It also contains collagen and elastin. Collagen is a protein that works with keratin to provide the skin with strength, flexibility, and resilience. Elastin helps to keep skin flexible but tight, providing a bounce-back reaction if skin is pulled. This is a standard test all estheticians do to measure the elasticity of a clients skin, pinch and pull. Collagen and elastin is the rubber band of the skin. You always what it to be tight but flexible. Once these proteins start to breakdown it becomes challenging to repair. Creating wrinkles or lose skin.

The Subcutaneous layer, which is made up of subcutaneous tissue, is the deepest layer of the skin and consists mainly of fat cells known as adipose.  These fat cells act as shock absorbers and protect the body from trauma.  They also work as heat insulators and help to keep body temperatures stable.

In a nut shell, your skin is a complex living organ that requires care. Though all these layers work hand in hand that doesn't mean it can take care all by itself. You have to help it along.

Hydrate your skin by drinking plenty of water and moisturizing often. Use an SPF with UVA and UVB protection. I recommend no less then SPF 30. This includes people of color/ethnic skin. And remember you are what you eat. If junk is what you eat, thats exactly what you'll see all over your face. See a dermatologist for yearly skin exams and see an estheticians at least two times a year for a proper cleaning and care.