The skin accounts for almost 15% of total body weight, making it the largest organ in the human body. But when considering health care it is often neglected or seen as an indicator of total body health rather than an organ that requires its own health care. Our busy modern lifestyles deserve a skincare regime that goes beyond the topical and applies a nutrition based scientific approach. The Inessa range recognises skin as an organ that requires products that promise long-term health benefits and stray from beauty gimmick trends.
The skin is comprised of three layers, each performs its own function to ensure the skin is a strong barrier to protect the body from pathogens (harmful microorganisms) and dehydration.
The collagen fibres in the dermis are like a bunch of tightly packed pillars that hold up the epidermis, with an exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products passing between them. Elastin is also found in the dermal layer of the skin. The combination of elastin and collagen is what allows skin its elasticity and flexibility, enabling us full movement and a firm, youthful appearance.
Layer 1 - The Epidermis
The visible layer of the skin is called the epidermis. The epidermal layer is a continually renewing skin layer that contains only dead blood cells that are shed throughout daily activities. This layer is home to the melanocytes, the cells that determine an individual's sensitivity to the sun's ultraviolet rays and skin tone. Additionally,Langerhan cells work in tandem with the immune system to recognise potentially harmful microorganisms and chemicals and ensure that they do not enter the body. Also located in the epidermis are the merkel cells, these cells connect to the nerve endings in the dermis and are responsible for touch sensations. All of the nourishment the epidermis receives comes from within, there is little meaningful long term physiological improvement to the epidermal layer from the use of topical skin care moisturisers.
Layer 2 - The Dermis
Below the epidermis is the second layer of skin, the dermis. The dermis is where protein fibers determine its properties of strength, extensibility, and elasticity. Within the dermis are the roots of the hair, sebaceous glands, sweat glands and blood vessels. Blood vessels nourish all hair follicles and deliver nutrients and oxygen to the lower layers of epidermal cells. The main structural component of the dermis is collagen, accounting for three quarters of the skins dry weight. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, serving as the connective tissue that gives strength and structural support.
Layer 3 - The Hypodermis
The hypodermis is the bottom layer of skin which attaches the upper to the bone and muscle below. The contained fat insulates you from temperature variations and physical shock, and it contains a greater number and larger blood vessels. The blood cells found in the hypodermis cycle through the three skin layers, eventually forming the top epidermal layer of dead cells.
Understanding the physiology of the skin and its function is key to creating a skin care plan that will provide you with meaningful results. Outer beauty comes from within and is built on a foundation of all over body health. Nourishing your skin from within will maintain a natural glow and ensure that your skin not only looks good but is truly cared for.