What is Skin?

Skin is the largest body organ. Every woman can have beautiful skin no matter what her age, race or colouring. The secret is to undertand how your skin functions and to treat it correctly. Your skin is made up of two main layers, called the epidermis and the dermis.

The Epidermis

This is the top layer of skin and the one uou can actually see. It protects your body from invasion and infection and helps to seal in moisture. It is built up of several layers of living cells that are then topped by sheets of dead cells. It is constantly growing, with new cells being produced at its base.

The epidermis is responsible for your colouring, as it holds the skin pigment. Its thickness varies from area to area - e.g. it is much thicker on the sole of your feet than your eyelids.

The dermis

The dermis is the layer that lies underneath the epidermis, and it is composed entirely of living cells. It consists of bundles of tough fibres that give your skin its elasticity, firmness and strength. The dermis also contains the following specialized organs -

Sebaceous Glands - These tiny organs usually open into hair follicles on the surface of your skin. They produce oily secretion, called sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant.

Sweat Glands - There are millions of sweat glands all over your body an dtheir main function is to regulate your body temperature.

Hairs - Hairs grow from hair follicles. They can help keep body warm by trapping air underneath them.

The main Functions of Skin

It acts as a thermostat, retaining heat or cooling you down with sweat.
It offers protection from potentially harmful things.
It acts as a waste disposal
It provides you with a sense of touch.