Being the largest organ that you have, your skin deserves a whole lot of attention! And not just because of its size! Your skin is your first defence against infectious organisms and it holds all your other organs, tissues and muscles together. The skin is mostly made up of water, protein and fat. Chemicals and minerals also make up the skin.
The skin has three layers and each of these layers have different functions. Aside from protection vital organs of the body, the skin also allows you to conserve your body heat as well as to feel pain and other sensations.
Let us dig in deeper and get to know the skin better.
The Three Layers of the Skin
The epidermis is the outer layer while the dermis is the skin’s middle layer. The innermost layer is the hypoermis or also called subcutaneous fat.
The Epidermis
The first layer of the skin is responsible for keeping you safe from harmful elements found in the environment such as microbes. This first layer of the skin actually has five layers as well. The epidermis actually contains different types of cells with various functions to perform. Keratin, the strongest protein of the skin is produced in the epidermis by certain cells. Melanin which gives the skin its colour is also produced in the epidermis by specific cells. Langerhans cells are also found in the epidermis. These cells are quite vital as they prevent unwanted substances from getting inside the body.
The Dermis
Collagen and elastin are the two proteins that mostly make up the second layer of the skin we call as dermis. Collagen provides support to the skin and is around 75% of yout skin. Elastin on the other hand provides the skin with its ability to stretch and get back to its natural state. In the dermis blood vessels, oil glands and hair follicles are found. It is also where nerve endings are located which gives you the ability to feel pain and other sensations from touching. Certain cells are also found in this layer.
The Hypodermis
The third layer is the fatty skin layer called hypodermis. Sweat galnds, fat cells and more collagen are found in this layer. This layer plays a crucial role as it keeps the body’s heat and protects the vital organs inside the body.
The skin has the amazing ability to change or regenerate so that the body is kept protected and healthy. After every 27 days the skin undergoes a complete regeneration to perform its functions properly. However as we age, skin’s regenration and its other metabollic processes slow down.
To help the skin be at its best for a longer time, we need to give it a helping hand. Keeping the skin healthy and protected from damage is easy if you have the dedication to this task. You need to make healthy lifestyle choices, eat a healthy and balanced meals and develop healthy skin care habits. The use of effective skin care products such as Moroccan Argan oil will also be crucial in maintaining the skin’s health!