About your skin

Your Skin

About your skin

Our skin is a living barrier that, among other things, protects us from external threats, helps control our body temperature and, of course, plays a major role in our appearance. It’s made up of three layers, each with different attributes and functions.

Our skin’s functions and layers

Our skin protects us from ultra-violet (UV) radiation and dehydration, and is an immunological organ protecting us from infections. It helps control our body temperature through blood circulation and sweating, and also produces vitamin D when in sunlight. Through our nerves, the skin also provides sensations and brings us “in touch” with the external world. Our skin has three layers: epidermis on top, dermis, and beneath these two, the hypodermis or subcutis.

What each layer does

  • The epidermal outer layer varies in thickness from 0.04 mm in the eyelids to 1.4 mm on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It protects us against bacterial or viral diseases, as well as chemicals and UV radiation and acts as a resistance to forces.
  • Under the epidermis, the dermis varies in thickness, from about 0.3 mm in the eyelids to up to 4 mm on the back. It also provides resistance to mechanical stresses and strains, and helps in healing wounds and the immune defence of the skin. Here, blood vessels constrict or dilate to regulate the body temperature. When an injury extends through the epidermis into the dermis, it causes bleeding.
  • Underneath both, the fatty tissue of the hypodermis or subcutis keeps the body warm, supplies energy as calories, and protects the underlying tissue from bumps.
Also present in the dermis are appendices in the form of fingernails and toenails. These are composed of nail plate, bed, matrix and the lunula. It can take 4-6 months for fingernails to grow completely, and up to a year for toenails Healthy skin is a sign of overall health and can contribute to better mental and emotional health. The skin plays a significant role in our perception of facial beauty, with skin texture signifying youth and vitality. When healthy, its layers work hard to protect us, but when compromised, its ability to work as an effective barrier is impaired. We have therefore found the best ways to improve skin health to support it in maintaining its protective role.