The Structure of the Skin and Aging
The Skin Structure
The skin, our largest organ, is a flexible protective – shield that maintains body moisture and protects delicate tissues through an elaborate cooling and heating system. The skin is a vital living organ composed of three layers: the dermis, epidermis, and subcutaneous. Two of the layers, the dermis and epidermis, determine our aesthetic appearance.
The three layers of skin tissue vary in total thickness from 1/50 of an inch on the eyelids to as much as 1/3 of an inch on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Subcutaneous Layer
The subcutaneous layer connects the skin to the tissue covering the muscle and bones, and is largely comprised of vessels, nerves, and fat lobules. It is the soft, fatty formation of your skin. As you grow older, the fatty tissue is absorbed by the body, removing the springy base from under the outer layers, leaving them to hang loose, form folds, and create wrinkles.
The Dermis Layer
The dermis or second layer contains blood vessels, nerves, nerve receptors, hair follicles, and sweat and oil glands. It contains cells called fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are essential in forming fibers that provide elasticity and suppleness to the skin. Two items within this layer are collagen and elastin, which give the skin its firmness and suppleness. It is within this layer that the skin is provided nourishment essential for cell growth, development, and for the cell renewal process.
The Epidermis Layer
The epidermis is the top or uppermost layer of the skin. The surface of the epidermis is made up of a very thin layer of dead skin cells.
The body is constantly manufacturing new skin cells in a process that begins underneath the epidermis and pushes upward. In about 21-28 days these cells will appear on the outer horny layer and form the visible part of the skin. These new cells are called keratinocytes, and are “charged” with keratin.
The skin’s two aging processes are referred to as natural biological aging and secondary aging.
1. Natural biological aging is largely unavoidable and will vary considerably based on age, sex, and skin types. To counteract normal aging one has to address the factors of lifestyle, skin type, needs, moisturization, hydration, protection and nutrition.
2. Secondary aging is determined by lifestyle, external and internal environment, pollution, sun, wind, and cold. These are factors that you can help to counteract by using specially formulated products to offset the damaging effects which cause accelerated aging.
Skin Functions
The skin is the largest and heaviest organ in the human body. It covers the entire surface of the body, including the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and even our eyelids. The skin has many important functions, such as regulating body temperature, storing water and fat, and protecting us from microbes and other environmental hazards. The skin also plays an important role in communication; for example, blushing is a way of indicating embarrassment or shame.
While skin is tough and resilient, it is also susceptible to damage from ultraviolet (UV) light, pollution, and other harmful agents. However, skin also undergoes many changes as we age. The skin becomes thinner and less elastic. This damage can lead to skin aging, which is characterized by wrinkles, dryness, and a loss of elasticity.
To protect skin from damage, it is important to use sunscreen when exposed to UV light, avoid smoking, and eat a healthy diet. By taking good care of our skin, we can help to keep it looking young and healthy.
Learn more about your skin
Anti-Aging
Anti-aging is a term that refers to the process of preventing premature aging of the skin. There are many ways to achieve anti-aging effects.
Anti-Aging Infinite By Forever Skincare Kit
What Are Your Skincare Goals?
When it comes to skincare, everyone has different goals. For some, the priority is preventing wrinkles and fine lines, while others are more concerned with acne and breakouts. No matter what your goals are, aloe vera can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine.
Treatments for combination skin
Sometimes dry, sometimes oily, combination skin has also been referred to as “normal.” The Sonya daily skincare system is an advanced offering for combination skin. The gel-based formulas help all the benefits of aloe penetrate deeper into the skin to balance powerful hydration and nutrients for consistently comfortable and radiant skin.
