Posts Tagged ‘epidermis dermis’

The Secret to Sexy Skin

The most commonly asked question that I encounter at parties or in the office is, “what is the secret to having wonderful skin?”

To answer that question, one must under the skin as an actual organ, and differentiate between the natural aging process and unhealthy aging; yes, aging is natural!

The skin, the largest organ in the body, is responsible for many aspects of our health including immune function, heat and electrolyte balance, barrier function and of course, our “good looks!” The skin is made up of three basic layers: epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat. The epidermis, the most superficial layer of the skin, is made up mostly of skin cells called keratinocytes; this layer of the skin is the part of we often scrape off during shaving or light abrasions from falling off the bicycle. Damage to this layer does not cause scarring. The dermis, the middle section, is made up of collagen, elastin and a complex matrix that together provide support, elasticity and volume to our skin. Damage to this layer of the skin can result in permanent scarring. The deepest layer, called the subcutaneous fat or hypodermis, is responsible for not just volume, but our fat metabolism (obviously!), and heat control.
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