The skin is the body's largest organ, and it serves as a protective barrier. Its health and surface appearance are determined by environmental factors as well as the function of the components that comprise the layers below.
Choose one skin type or skin condition to explore the physiological attributes.
This oil-like substance is produced by the sebaceous glands. Sebum helps waterproof the skin. Sebum forms a film on skin that keeps water in and irritants out.
Located at the root of the hair follicles, these glands produce oil. This oil, or sebum, lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair. Sebaceous glands are present everywhere except the palms and soles of the feet.
The middle layer of the skin housing nerves, glands, essential proteins, enzymes, and blood cells, making it the skin’s “operation” center. Contains collagen and elastin which provide support and structure to skin.
Outer layer of skin that acts as a barrier between the body and the environment. Stratum corneum, uppermost layer, is made up of corneocytes (flat, dead skin cells) forming skin’s barrier. Basal layer, bottom layer, is where pigment is produced.
The uppermost layer is thin and jagged due to lack of hydration. Cells shed inefficiently, sticking to each other and preventing new skin cells from reaching the skin's surface.
Melanocytes overproduce melanin at the very bottom of the epidermis. At the top of the epidermis overproduction of melanin leads to dark spots on skin's surface.
