Human Skin - Our Calling Card

The skin is the body's largest organ and serves as its protective covering, shielding it from the harmful effects of the environment and variations in climate. Our skin acts as a barrier between the inner parts of the body and the external environment, which makes it the main protector of our internal organs.

The body is exposed to constant change and our skin is the first part of the body to adapt to existing conditions because it reflects the actual state of body and mind. Therefore, anything that obstructs function of the skin or causes changes in its appearance may have serious effects on physical and mental health.

Function of Human Skin:

  • Shields against penetration of harmful substances (pollution, germs and toxins).
  • Protects against changes in the climate (sun, wind and dryness).
  • Maintains the body’s fluid content (moisture).
  • Stores nourishing and structuring substances (collagen and elastin).
  • Safeguards internal organs from injury and mechanical stress.

 

Structure of the Skin

Human skin has three layers: - the epidermis, dermis, and fatty layer (also called the subcutaneous layer). Each layer performs specific tasks.

Epidermis - The tough, relatively thin, outer layer of the skin has a thickness of between 0.4 mm on the eyelids; up to 1.5 mm on the face

The epidermis is nourished by the dermis.

Dermis - A thick layer of fibrous and elastic tissue located below the epidermis, the dermal layer is rich in collagen and elastin fibers. It contains blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat and sebaceous glands, muscles and nerve endings. The dermis gives the skin its flexibility and strength.

Hypodermis - The lowest subcutaneous layer has a large quantity of fat cells and is used by the body for mechanical protection and insulation.