Everything you need to know about skin: structure, role, protection methods
Posted by Ivatherm
Skin, the largest organ of the body, is made up of water, proteins, fats, and minerals and represents the first line of defense against external factors.
Skin, along with hair, nails, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands, is part of the integumentary system, which is the body's outer covering.
As the largest organ of the body and playing a protective role, the skin offers defense against germs, regulates body temperature, and is responsible for cutaneous sensations.
In this blog article, we will explore what skin is and its essential role in the body. We will analyze the structure of the skin, the importance of the skin microbiome, as well as the main problems and risks to which it is exposed. Finally, we will discuss the most effective protection methods for maintaining healthy skin.
Table of Contents
What is skin and what role does it play for the body?
Skin performs numerous different functions. It is the largest organ of the body and the first to come into contact with environmental elements. Thus, it acts as a barrier, protecting the body from external factors such as moisture, cold, and ultraviolet rays, as well as bacteria, viruses, and toxic substances.
Every square centimeter of skin consists of approximately 19 million cells, 60,000 melanocytes (cells that produce melanin or skin pigment), 650 sweat glands, 20 blood vessels, and 1,000 nerve endings, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Depending on its location on the body and the pressures it is subjected to, skin varies in size. Skin thickness also depends on age and gender. Generally, elderly individuals have thinner skin than young people, and men typically have thicker skin than women.
Even at its thickest point, on the soles of the feet, the skin is only a few millimeters thick, specifically 1.4 mm. Conversely, the thinnest skin is on the eyelids, which is only 0.2 mm thick.
Depending on a person's height and body mass, skin weighs between 3.5 and 10 kilograms, accounting for approximately 15% of body weight.
Changes in skin color and texture can be a symptom of a medical condition. For instance, people with a low red blood cell count (a sign of anemia) may appear pale, while those with yellowish skin may suffer from hepatitis.
In addition to its protective function, skin plays an important role in regulating body temperature and allows the body to feel various sensations such as heat, cold, pressure, itching, and pain. Some of these sensations trigger a reflex to avoid certain dangers.
The skin also functions as a storage "device" for the body. The deepest layer of the skin can store water and fats. Additionally, it produces hormones that are important for the entire body.
Skin is also essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. In fact, it acts as an immune organ. In the case of skin wounds, blood flow increases to transport substances that protect the skin and help it heal faster to the lesions.
Skin Structure
The skin is made up of three different layers:
the outer layer (epidermis);
the middle layer (dermis);
the lower or subcutaneous layer (hypodermis).
What is the role of the epidermis?
The outer layer of the skin, which can be seen with the naked eye, is called the epidermis and is largely composed of cells that produce keratin, a protein also found in the structure of nails and hair.
The epidermis constantly renews itself. New cells form in the lower layers of the epidermis and surface in approximately four weeks. This constant renewal serves to replace the approximately 40,000 cells that are lost every day. Annually, a person loses about four kilograms of skin cells.
The epidermis performs numerous functions, among which the most important are:
prevents bacteria and germs from entering the body and protects it against external factors (rain, ultraviolet rays, etc.);
protects the body through Langerhans cells, which are part of the body's immune system and fight against infections;
gives skin its color, as it contains melanin.
What is the role of the dermis?
Beneath the epidermis, firmly attached to it, lies the dermis or the middle layer of the skin, representing 90% of the skin's thickness.
The dermis is made up of numerous collagen fibers – a structural protein – which make skin cells strong and resistant. Additionally, elastin, which provides skin flexibility, is also found in the middle layer of the skin. Thanks to collagen and elastin, the skin is hydrated, elastic, and firm.
The dermis contains a network of nerve fibers and very small blood vessels called capillaries. Nutrients and oxygen from the blood pass from the capillaries into the cells. The other vital function of the capillaries is to help the body maintain an adequate temperature.
Most sensory cells are also located in the dermis. The nerve receptors in this layer of the skin warn when an object is too hot to touch, for example, through the pain felt.
Last but not least, the sebaceous glands in the dermis help keep the skin smooth. At the same time, sebum prevents the skin from absorbing too much water during swimming, during a storm, or in various other situations.
What is the role of the hypodermis?
The subcutaneous layer is largely composed of fat and connective tissue (which connects the skin layers to muscles and bones). Fat acts as a shock absorber, protecting bones, muscles, and joints from bumps or falls.
Nerves and blood vessels in the middle layer become larger in the hypodermis. They branch out to connect the subcutaneous layer with the rest of the body. Vitamin D, an essential nutrient for the body, recognized as a steroid hormone, is produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
What is the skin microbiome?
The skin is composed of a multitude of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, most of which are harmless. These life forms constitute the skin microbiome and are a key factor in maintaining overall health.
The skin microbiome plays an important role in fighting infections (some microorganisms acting as natural antibiotics), supporting the immune system, wound healing, and controlling inflammation.
What risks is the skin exposed to?
Because the skin protects the body from external factors, it is constantly exposed to numerous challenges. Thus, due to external elements, the skin can suffer, being prone to numerous injuries and skin conditions. Also, lifestyle can influence skin health.
From allergies and problems caused by sun exposure to chronic conditions, here are some of the risks the skin is exposed to:
Allergies caused by different substances
Contact dermatitis is among the common eczema types and is an allergic or irritant reaction, manifested by painful or itchy rashes.
To keep the outer layer of the skin strong and hydrated, it is recommended to use cosmetic products that reduce the adherence of harmful irritants to the skin and increase the skin's defense capacity against mechanical aggression. Cicaderm Barrier Cream, an Ivatherm product, isolates, repairs and protects skin exposed to external aggressions (washing solutions, oils, chemicals) and prevents the appearance of contact dermatitis. It restores skin integrity, soothes it and provides long-term comfort.
Skin conditions
Acne is a skin condition that causes lesions, especially on the face, forehead, chest, shoulders, and upper back. Frequent in teenagers, it has a complex pathology and numerous triggering factors. It manifests through the appearance of lesions, papules, pustules and if not treated properly can produce post-acne lesions and pigmentation spots.
The Ivapur range from Ivatherm is dedicated to acne-prone skin and contains products specially created to treat this cutaneous problem.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that manifests as visible blood vessels, papules, and pustules in advanced rosacea, and even rhinophyma in stage III. The first signs and symptoms are redness of the chin, cheeks, nose, and forehead. The cause of rosacea is still unknown; it appears more frequently after 30 years of age and worsens with age.
The Rosederm range from Ivatherm contains products with ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness, irritation, the number and size of visible small vessels on the skin surface, improve capillary circulation and prevent the appearance of other blood capillaries.
Psoriasis is an immune system disorder, usually manifested by patchy, scaly, dry, and itchy skin.
Problems caused by sun exposure
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow uncontrollably. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of cancer.
Moles are growths that form on the skin. Some are congenital, while others appear as a result of sun exposure and can be a symptom of skin cancer.
Pigmentation spots (sun or age spots) are caused by ultraviolet rays, as a result of excessive sun exposure for many years, and develop on areas most often affected by UV radiation, namely the hands and face.
Products from the Sunlight range by Ivatherm protect skin cells from the mutagenic effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Scars and lesions
Stretch marks are a type of scar that develops when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. Most commonly, stretch marks appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, lower back, and upper arms.
Resveratrox V Anti-Stretch Mark Cream – prevents the formation of new stretch marks and reduces the size of existing ones. By restoring collagen and elastin fibers, it restores skin elasticity. It has a deep restructuring effect and increases the skin's resistance to distension.
Cellulite occurs when there is an accumulation of fat under the skin, which causes the skin to develop a wrinkled, lumpy, orange peel-like appearance.
Resveratrox Forte Anti-Cellulite Cream – has an intense effect in reducing the lipid layer on the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen, significantly diminishes the orange peel appearance, and reshapes the silhouette. As a result of use, the skin becomes smooth, firm, and elastic.
Methods of skin protection
As we age, collagen and elastin production decreases. For this reason, the middle layer of the skin (dermis) becomes thinner, and the risk of wrinkles and pigmentation spots is higher.
The skin aging process is a natural one, but there are several factors, such as ultraviolet rays, unhealthy diet, stress, and an inadequate skincare routine, that can accelerate this process. The skin is the mirror of the entire body and its state of health.
To protect the skin from external factors, a few simple measures are recommended:
Avoiding sun exposure during peak hours (between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM);
Reducing stress levels, as it can aggravate certain skin conditions;
Establishing an effective rest routine (specialists recommend between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night);
Undergoing periodic check-ups to verify any changes in skin (changes in the shape and color of a mole can be a sign of skin cancer);
Giving up vices (smoking and alcohol contribute to premature skin aging).
Skin plays a vital role in protecting the body from viruses, bacteria, and environmental elements. It also maintains a comfortable body temperature and provides the sense of touch. However, despite its primary function of defense, the skin itself needs protection. Therefore, a healthy lifestyle and an effective skincare routine are necessary for maintaining skin health.
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.
Everything you need to know about skin: structure, role, protection methods
Skin, the largest organ of the body, is made up of water, proteins, fats, and minerals and represents the first line of defense against external factors.
Skin, along with hair, nails, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands, is part of the integumentary system, which is the body's outer covering.
As the largest organ of the body and playing a protective role, the skin offers defense against germs, regulates body temperature, and is responsible for cutaneous sensations.
In this blog article, we will explore what skin is and its essential role in the body. We will analyze the structure of the skin, the importance of the skin microbiome, as well as the main problems and risks to which it is exposed. Finally, we will discuss the most effective protection methods for maintaining healthy skin.
Table of Contents
What is skin and what role does it play for the body?
Skin performs numerous different functions. It is the largest organ of the body and the first to come into contact with environmental elements. Thus, it acts as a barrier, protecting the body from external factors such as moisture, cold, and ultraviolet rays, as well as bacteria, viruses, and toxic substances.
Every square centimeter of skin consists of approximately 19 million cells, 60,000 melanocytes (cells that produce melanin or skin pigment), 650 sweat glands, 20 blood vessels, and 1,000 nerve endings, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Depending on its location on the body and the pressures it is subjected to, skin varies in size. Skin thickness also depends on age and gender. Generally, elderly individuals have thinner skin than young people, and men typically have thicker skin than women.
Even at its thickest point, on the soles of the feet, the skin is only a few millimeters thick, specifically 1.4 mm. Conversely, the thinnest skin is on the eyelids, which is only 0.2 mm thick.
Depending on a person's height and body mass, skin weighs between 3.5 and 10 kilograms, accounting for approximately 15% of body weight.
Changes in skin color and texture can be a symptom of a medical condition. For instance, people with a low red blood cell count (a sign of anemia) may appear pale, while those with yellowish skin may suffer from hepatitis.
In addition to its protective function, skin plays an important role in regulating body temperature and allows the body to feel various sensations such as heat, cold, pressure, itching, and pain. Some of these sensations trigger a reflex to avoid certain dangers.
The skin also functions as a storage "device" for the body. The deepest layer of the skin can store water and fats. Additionally, it produces hormones that are important for the entire body.
Skin is also essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. In fact, it acts as an immune organ. In the case of skin wounds, blood flow increases to transport substances that protect the skin and help it heal faster to the lesions.
Skin Structure
The skin is made up of three different layers:
What is the role of the epidermis?
The outer layer of the skin, which can be seen with the naked eye, is called the epidermis and is largely composed of cells that produce keratin, a protein also found in the structure of nails and hair.
The epidermis constantly renews itself. New cells form in the lower layers of the epidermis and surface in approximately four weeks. This constant renewal serves to replace the approximately 40,000 cells that are lost every day. Annually, a person loses about four kilograms of skin cells.
The epidermis performs numerous functions, among which the most important are:
What is the role of the dermis?
Beneath the epidermis, firmly attached to it, lies the dermis or the middle layer of the skin, representing 90% of the skin's thickness.
The dermis is made up of numerous collagen fibers – a structural protein – which make skin cells strong and resistant. Additionally, elastin, which provides skin flexibility, is also found in the middle layer of the skin. Thanks to collagen and elastin, the skin is hydrated, elastic, and firm.
The dermis contains a network of nerve fibers and very small blood vessels called capillaries. Nutrients and oxygen from the blood pass from the capillaries into the cells. The other vital function of the capillaries is to help the body maintain an adequate temperature.
Most sensory cells are also located in the dermis. The nerve receptors in this layer of the skin warn when an object is too hot to touch, for example, through the pain felt.
Last but not least, the sebaceous glands in the dermis help keep the skin smooth. At the same time, sebum prevents the skin from absorbing too much water during swimming, during a storm, or in various other situations.
What is the role of the hypodermis?
The subcutaneous layer is largely composed of fat and connective tissue (which connects the skin layers to muscles and bones). Fat acts as a shock absorber, protecting bones, muscles, and joints from bumps or falls.
Nerves and blood vessels in the middle layer become larger in the hypodermis. They branch out to connect the subcutaneous layer with the rest of the body. Vitamin D, an essential nutrient for the body, recognized as a steroid hormone, is produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
What is the skin microbiome?
The skin is composed of a multitude of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, most of which are harmless. These life forms constitute the skin microbiome and are a key factor in maintaining overall health.
The skin microbiome plays an important role in fighting infections (some microorganisms acting as natural antibiotics), supporting the immune system, wound healing, and controlling inflammation.
What risks is the skin exposed to?
Because the skin protects the body from external factors, it is constantly exposed to numerous challenges. Thus, due to external elements, the skin can suffer, being prone to numerous injuries and skin conditions. Also, lifestyle can influence skin health.
From allergies and problems caused by sun exposure to chronic conditions, here are some of the risks the skin is exposed to:
Allergies caused by different substances
Contact dermatitis is among the common eczema types and is an allergic or irritant reaction, manifested by painful or itchy rashes.
Skin conditions
Acne is a skin condition that causes lesions, especially on the face, forehead, chest, shoulders, and upper back. Frequent in teenagers, it has a complex pathology and numerous triggering factors. It manifests through the appearance of lesions, papules, pustules and if not treated properly can produce post-acne lesions and pigmentation spots.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that manifests as visible blood vessels, papules, and pustules in advanced rosacea, and even rhinophyma in stage III. The first signs and symptoms are redness of the chin, cheeks, nose, and forehead. The cause of rosacea is still unknown; it appears more frequently after 30 years of age and worsens with age.
Psoriasis is an immune system disorder, usually manifested by patchy, scaly, dry, and itchy skin.
Problems caused by sun exposure
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow uncontrollably. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of cancer.
Moles are growths that form on the skin. Some are congenital, while others appear as a result of sun exposure and can be a symptom of skin cancer.
Pigmentation spots (sun or age spots) are caused by ultraviolet rays, as a result of excessive sun exposure for many years, and develop on areas most often affected by UV radiation, namely the hands and face.
Scars and lesions
Stretch marks are a type of scar that develops when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. Most commonly, stretch marks appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, lower back, and upper arms.
Cellulite occurs when there is an accumulation of fat under the skin, which causes the skin to develop a wrinkled, lumpy, orange peel-like appearance.
Methods of skin protection
As we age, collagen and elastin production decreases. For this reason, the middle layer of the skin (dermis) becomes thinner, and the risk of wrinkles and pigmentation spots is higher.
The skin aging process is a natural one, but there are several factors, such as ultraviolet rays, unhealthy diet, stress, and an inadequate skincare routine, that can accelerate this process. The skin is the mirror of the entire body and its state of health.
To protect the skin from external factors, a few simple measures are recommended:
Skin plays a vital role in protecting the body from viruses, bacteria, and environmental elements. It also maintains a comfortable body temperature and provides the sense of touch. However, despite its primary function of defense, the skin itself needs protection. Therefore, a healthy lifestyle and an effective skincare routine are necessary for maintaining skin health.
Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279255/#
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10978-skin
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/50-facts-you-should-know-about-skin.html#
https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/10-amazing-facts-about-skin/
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/skin-microbiome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3535073/
https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-021-01062-5
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.